Bloggin’ with Alleluia Shop

Since 1908, the House of Fontanini has created magnificent old-world sculptures treasured by collectors all over the world. Breathtaking in detail and workmanship, Fontanini Nativities are comprised of lifelike figures that present an extraordinary step back in time to Biblical Bethlehem.

In 1973, Roman, Inc. became the exclusive distributor for Fontanini Nativities. Already a world famous name in Italian craftsmanship for 65 years before the Nativities became wildly available in the United States, the much sought-after collection was prized for its lifelike sculpting, meticulous hand painting and attention to detail. The partnership with Roman has made Fontanini Nativities the most popular in America for many years.

The family patriarch and company founder Emanuele Fontanini, embarked on his career of figurine crafting in 1893 as a talented 13 year-old apprentice to an artist in Bagni di Lucca, an area of Tuscany known for its great arts and crafts. Fontanini expanded his knowledge and skills in art through travels to European cities. He returned to Bagni di Lucca to launch his company in 1908, using money earned from the sale of his wares throughout the continent. Although no longer artisits themselves, the fourth generation of the Fontanini Family continues the tradition of crafting the eloquent Nativities and figures.

Working with the finest painters and sculptors in Tuscany, Fontanini began crafting figures and decorations of heirloom quality in a single room shop. In time, the House of Fontanini gain recognition and acclaim for its work and Fontanini’s sons, Ugo, Mario and Aldo, joined him in the business. Later, Mario’s sons, Ugo, Mariano and Pier became the third generation to head up the rapidly growing enterprise. The family’s fourth generation is proudly bringing the House of Fontanini to both old and new collectors the world over.

One of the most popular features of the Fontanini collection is that whether you’re looking for a complete set or a single piece to add to an existing set, you’re sure to find just the right fit. Figures are available is several sizes, with the two most common sizes being the 5″ and 7.5″ figures. The Alleluia Shop currently has over 250 different Fontanini items listed in its online gift store. Why not take a look right now? – John

Jim Shore has been dazzling gift-givers and collectors for many years with his unique quilted-look line of giftware items. Now brand new to the market, he has just released a charming line of fairies that are sure to be snatched up before Christmas. Enesco has produced only a limited number of these pieces for 2009.

Gathering inspiration for the collection from his southern-country upbringing, sculptor and painter Jim Shore blends intricate patterns, eye-catching country colors, and carved wood resin details to create truly unique works of art. His seven enchanted new fairies include the following: Harmony Fairy, Sea Fairy, Cooking Fairy, Feline Fairy, Sewing Fairy, Flower Fairy and Princess Fairy.

More about the Heartwood Creek artist, Jim Shore:

A native of South Carolina, Jim Shore utilizes his skills and art as a portraitist, sculptor, and folk artist to create his unique and creative collection for Enesco. His most popular collection, Heartwood Creek, combines tabletop, figurines, and home and garden décor to create a charming and innovative American folk art statement. Shore’s artistry and design for Heartwood Creek has earned accolades from the gift industry. In 2005, the National Association of Limited Edition Dealers (NALED) named Shore Artist of the Year – for the second consecutive year – and his seasonal offering by Enesco as Holiday Décor of the Year. His artwork for Heartwood Creek Nativity also took top honors as Collectible of the Year and Decorative Collectible of the Year. He’s truly a talented and much appreciated artist.

Click the link below to see the new fairies, as well as other gifts from the collection. Don’t wait long though, as they’re sure to quickly fly away. – John

Brand NEW Angel Figurine – Just Released! The Prayer Angel is a unique porcelain angel figurine created to hold cards and pictures as an inspirational reminder to pray for family and friends. Buy one for yourself, and give one as an extra-special gift. Comes in a lovely white gift box with a photo of the Prayer Angel and suggested uses. Approximately 4″ high x 4″ wide x 4 1/2″ deep. Stock photos shown are © Holben Designs, LLC. Beautiful and ONLY $19.99!

Great Gift for Special Occasions: Anniversary, Baptism, Birthday, Christmas, Confirmation, First Communion, Friendship, Graduation, Memorial, Retirement, Wedding, or just because!

Perfect Gift for Many Loved Ones: Children, Family, Friends, Grandparents, Parents, Teachers, or for yourself!

Prayer Angel Uses:

Each Prayer Angel is packaged with a card explaining the idea behind the Prayer Angel:

Fruit of the Spirit

The Alleluia Shop carries a wide variety of inspirational jewelry including 25 different styles of very affordable bracelets. Whether you’re in the market for a special gift for your mother, a memorable bracelet for your sister, or a keepsake for your niece making her first holy communion, you’ll be able to find just the right one to put a smile on her face.

Turtle Friendship

Did you just remember the birthday party or other special event you were invited to next weekend? The Alleluia Shop prides itself in shipping orders quickly to get the package to you before you need it. Take a look at our eBay feedback, and you’ll see the words “fast shipping” repeated often.

I picked just a few photos to show here in this post, so be sure to take a minute to follow the link below for a quick look at the other designs currently available. New listings are constantly being added to our Alleluia Shop eBay store as well. – John

Are you wondering what in the world to buy for your sister’s wedding, or maybe for your best friend’s 50th birthday, or how about just the right house warming gift for when you visit your aunt this summer?

Well, the Alleluia Shop carries wall crosses in a wide variety of sizes, materials and prices. In fact, we currently have over 135 different styles available in our eBay store. Some are very specific to a special occasion, but many work well for most any upcoming celebration you’ve been invited to attend.

In addition to the many plain wall crosses, some actually have a message right on them, and many others are crucifixes, if that’s your preference. Take a few minutes right now and follow the link below to see what’s available. And as always, orders promptly ship out from our store directly to your doorstep. – John

13 inch Gold Baby Cross

Do you have a friend or other loved one that has a precious new little baby? Are you looking for a special keepsake for the baby and their family? If so, a tiny cross pendant is the perfect way to commemmorate a new birth, or possibly the baptismal, christening or dedication day. I just received in an order of eight of the most popular cross designs for little ones. Each comes with a 13″ chain, just right for babies. Also, the deluxe flip-top jewelry box is trimmed with white lace, making a beautiful presentation when given as a gift.

13 inch Silver Baby Cross

Take a look in the Alleluia Shop’s eBay store for these and other fun styles that are sure to make a memorable gift the family will appreciate for years to come. In addition to the baby wearing the pendant for special ocassions at an early age, a longer chain can always be purchased in the future so the older child, or even adult, can enjoy wearing it later in life. Thanks! – John

If you’ve been struggling with what to give grandma for her birthday, or maybe for your daughter celebrating her first holy communion, look no farther than to a quality made rosary from the Alleluia Shop. We carry a variety of styles from high-end hand-made rosaries to more budget friendly ones. We have stocked a nice assortment from several different vendors for close to 30 years.

A rosary can be a lasting keepsake important for a person of any age. You can help strengthen your own or a loved one’s faith with a brand new rosary. Browse through our selection of finely crafted rosaries today! – John

The Miracle of Life

The Miracle of Life – Before you were conceived, I wanted you, Before your were born, I loved you. Before you were here an hour, I would die for you. This is the miracle of life. – Maureen Hawkins

This quality-made, brushed silver finish photo frame with an easel back, would make the perfect gift to showcase a sonogram/ultrasound or new birth photograph. It’s brand new and comes gift boxed ready for the wrapping paper. It’s approximately 4 1/2″ high x 8″ wide and is proudly made in the USA. Order one from the Alleluia Shop today to help commemorate the special event! It’s tough to find a nicer gift at a better price. John

Grow In The Light Of His Love

Welcome a little one into the family of Christ. Here a newly baptized baby looks forward to a rich life, guided by the lessons and examples of caring parents and Godparents.

This beautiful new Precious Moments figurine is sure to be a treasured keepsake for a lifetime. A number of other special figurines and giftware items to help make the special day memorable are now available from the Alleluia Shop.

In addition, there are several gift possibilities for those older ones being baptised too. Remember, it’s important to celebrate the spiritual awakening of one who has accepted the Lord as her savior. Check out the inspirational baptism gifts now! John

Precious Moments recently introduced a new partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. A portion of the purchase price from this adorable new figurine will be donated to help in the fight against childhood cancer and other catastrophic diseases. Through this agreement, Precious Moments will make a minimum donation of $100,000 to St. Jude in 2009. Way to go Precious Moments!

Holding On To Hope

This special figurine features a darling little girl holding a teddy bear wearing a T-shirt that says “HOPE,” while her precious kitten follows at her feet. On the base in front is the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital logo. The figurine stands approximately 5 1/4″ tall, is made of porcelain bisque and comes in a deluxe satin-lined gift box. It is appropriately entitled, “Holding On To Hope,” item number 830051, and is priced at $44.99. Won’t you do your part and help support this beneficial program? Now available for purchase. Thanks for taking a moment of your time to read about this new Precious Moments spring introduction. John