Feature Shop: Sarahndipities

Happy Wednesday! The cheerful personality of Sarah of Sarahndipities really comes through when you read her busy blog and this interview. Wouldn't you just love to have a cup of coffee with her? Learn more about this long-time team member and busy mom of five below! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks.


What is your name?
Sarah Anderson

Where are you located?
I live in Mt. Pleasant, UT.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I a 32-year-old SAHM of five great kids! My oldest is 10, and my youngest is 9 months! My hubby is a 5th grade teacher at our local elementary school. We've been married for 12 years.

What do you sell in your Etsy shop? 
Mostly crocheted hats and accessories...but also some blankets and embroidered dolls.

Embroidered Felt Matryoshka Doll Plushie Pattern

How long have you been crocheting? 
I've been crocheting now for about 11 years!

What or who got you started in your craft? 
My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was expecting my first baby. I wanted to make her a baby blanket! And the rest is history! :)

OOAK Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan

Tell us the story behind this item: OOAK Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan. What inspired you? How did you choose the materials/colors/etc.?
I got a bunch of vintage yarn remnants from my grandma, and there were all these great colors! I couldn't figure out what to do with them for the longest time, but I've always LOVED granny squares so that's what I ended up making! It's truly a one-of-a-kind piece, since the yarns I used aren't available anywhere!

How did your shop get its name? 
I wanted to have my shop include my name and be something clever and memorable. I also wanted to have some flexibility so that I could change what I was selling if I wanted to!

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
It's a lot of work!! For me, I find that making myself a schedule really helps. I try to do 'work' things when the kids are busy with other things, and I also make after school until bedtime hours off limits for 'businessy' type things.

The Meanie - Outdoors Man Crochet Beanie

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms? 
Don't feel bad if you need to take a lot of breaks! It's better to keeping moving along in the right direction, with frequent breaks, than it is to get stressed out and get nowhere!

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"Motherhood is not a hobby, it is a calling. You do not collect children because you find them cuter than stamps. It is not something to do if you can squeeze the time in. It is what God gave you time for." ~ Neal L. Anderson

What do you like to browse for on Etsy? 
I love looking for unique supplies and, of course, children's items!

Crochet Boho Headband / Headwrap

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently? 
I love so many, but a couple of my current faves are www.etsy.com/shop/claraiuribe and www.etsy.com/shop/annemariesbreiblog

Where can we find you?
Etsy: sarahndipities.etsy.com
Blog: sarahndipities.blogspot.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sarahndipities1
Twitter: twitter.com/#!/Sarahndipities1
Pinterest: pinterest.com/sarahndipities
Crafsty: www.craftsy.com/craftsyer/115582
Ravelry: www.ravelry.com/people/sarahndipities
Google+: plus.google.com/u/0/116525346303961018630/posts

OOAK - Custom Retro Granny Square Lap Afghan

Feature Shop: Bows by Emily Grace

This week, I'd like to introduce you to Lorie, and active member of our team and the creative force behind Bows by Emily Grace. Learn more about this crafty mom of two! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Lorie

Where are you located?
Northeastern Pennsylvania

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a stay at home wife and mommy to my two children, ages 8 and 5, and our three dogs. I love to make hair bows, but I also like to crochet and read for relaxation.

What do you sell in your Etsy shop?
Hair accessories for little (and big) girls!

How long have you been making hair accessories?
Ever since our daughter was born eight years ago, its really been an addiction!

What or who got you started in your craft?
I have always been a crafting person, even as a child, my mom started me in crafts, but I started making hair bows once our daughter was born.

Gingham Flower Clippie Set

Tell us the story behind this item: Gingham Flower Clippie Set. What inspired you?
I just love gingham; it reminds me of years ago, when times were simpler. I made this particular set around the Fourth of July last year because I thought the red gingham and white background looked so fresh and clean for the holiday!

How did your shop get its name?
My daughter's name is Emily Grace.

Easter Headband and Clippie Set

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
My family always comes first. I usually make my hair accessories when my children are at school or gone to bed for the night.

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?
Always put your family first....your children will never be this age again, don't miss a single minute!

Orange Tuxedo Bow Hair Clippie Set

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
My life's inspiration is a Bible verse...."Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and he will direct your paths" Proverbs 3:5-6.

What do you like to browse for on Etsy?
Silver stamped jewelry!!!!!!!

Peace Sign Boutique Style Bow

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?
www.etsy.com/shop/JoyBelleJewelry Gorgeous jewelry at amazing prices! I just ordered a necklace for myself and my sister who just had her first baby!

Where can we find you?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/BowsbyEmilyGrace
Facebook: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Bows-by-Emily-Grace/206161516087455

Doll & Me Woven Headband Set

Feature Shop: Fruitful Delights

She's a new member of our team, but Heather of Fruitful Delights has jumped right in! Learn more about this busy, jam-making mom, and then take a moment to browse her delicious shop. It always makes me hungry! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks


What is your name?
Heather O'Sullivan

Where are you located?
My husband, two boys, and I live in the beautiful little borough of Pennsburg, Pennsylvania.

Tell us a little about yourself. 
I'm a SAHM of two beautiful boys, Connor, who is almost four, and Liam, who is almost two. My husband and I both grew up in New Jersey and moved to Pennsylvania for work, and we absolutely love where we are. We live in a 112-year-old brick Queen Anne Victorian home which we are slowly returning to its beauty when we aren't chasing the kids around, living life, and spending time with our family.

Peach Jam

What do you sell in your Etsy shop? 
I sell homemade jams and spreads ranging from your classics like blackberry and blueberry to some new flavors such as strawberry-lemonade and peach-blueberry.

How long have you been canning and making jams? 
I have been making jam since the summer of 2009, almost three years now.

What or who got you started in your craft? 
My husband got me started in making jam. His family would go blueberry picking on the borders of their property in the Poconos and a few other places and have been making jam for years, and he wanted the two of us to be able to enjoy it too.

Blackberry Jam

Tell us the story behind this item: Apple Conserve with Raisins and Walnuts. What inspired you? How did you choose the fruits and flavors to include? 
The inspiration behind the apple conserve came because I'd already made a ton of apple butter, apple sauce and pies but had quite a few apples left over. I found a recipe in an old handwritten cookbook and thought it sounded different and was amazed at how those three flavors -- apple, walnut and raisin -- worked so well together! It is excellent by itself on toast or as used in place of mint jelly when served with meats. (There's actually a post on my blog about this flavor...)

How did your shop get its name? 
My shops name took me a good three months to decide upon. I was looking for something simple and descriptive of my craft that hadn't already been taken in the Internet world. Fruitful Delights wasn't actually my first, second or third choice. Instead it was a combination of a few other names I had tried, but once I saw it written out on a label for my products I was hooked.

Homemade Jam Wedding/Party Favor

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
I have a pretty detailed schedule written down for myself which breaks down my day with my boys. It's how I have figured out (for myself) how to keep my house running and my kids content. My craft makes it pretty easy for me to balance my children and my business. Berry picking is a pretty short season, depending on the berry, and my husband does most of the picking on his way home from work. That leaves me time to take care of my boys, and I will make jam in the evenings after they've gone off to bed. Since it is such a short season, I'm usually actively making jam from May until November. I do freeze berries for jam for the four of us so that way I can put my focus on Fruitful Delights jam first.

What is one piece of advice or a tip you'd give other stay-at-home moms?
As hard as it is, try not to compare yourself or try to be like any other mother. Each one of us has our own way of getting things done, keeping the balance. Some moms, like myself, have to do it all on their own without the help of extended family, which has enough pressure in and of itself. I ask lots of friends how they do it with their kids and over time, I figured out a schedule and routine that worked for my kids. We're each unique as individuals, and it's important to find a routine that works well for you as a family and stick with it.

Do you have a favorite quote or inspirational saying you'd like to share?
"One loses many laughs by not laughing at oneself." Sara Jeannette Duncan

Apple Butter

What do you like to browse for on Etsy? 
When I first joined Etsy, I browsed for earrings. I love earrings but never seem to buy anything for myself. Since I found out we would be welcoming a girl into my husband's family soon, I have been gushing over all of the sweet baby girl items that these amazing people make.

What is your favorite Etsy shop currently?
Little Millie Boutique

Where can we find you?
Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/FruitfulDelights
Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Fruitful-Delights/247204011974407
Blog: fruitfuldelightsonetsy.blogspot.com/

Feature Shop: Pink Paisley Boutique

I've spent a fair amount of time ooh-ing and aah-ing over the jewelry pieces in Pink Paisley Boutique. Meet Sarah, the creative mom behind it all! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Sarah Schmidt

Where are you located?
The lovely western 'burbs of Chicago.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a mother to three crazy kids and a wife to a wonderful German man, who I somehow convinced to move across the world for me. I love, love, love projects...it could be DIY projects around our old house, fixing up my daughter's room, gardening and, of course, making jewelry.

Silver Jumble Necklace

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Shoppers will find trendy, handmade jewelry at very affordable prices. There are a few tried and true styles that I keep around and will remake but, most of the time, I am trying to come up with new, original pieces.

How/why did you get started?
Like a lot of people on Etsy, I started making jewelry for fun. A good friend of mine taught me some of the basics and from there I was hooked, mostly because I loved being able to make something exactly the way I would want to wear it. I started selling to friends, then friends of friends, at parties, local craft shows, and then Etsy.

Multi-colored Bauble Bracelet

How long have you been crafting?
I've always loved creating; I can remember trying to sew myself a skirt when I was around 8.... needless to say, it didn't turn out that great! I've also dabbled in photography. But I have been making jewelry for the past 3 years.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Necklaces! There is something so feminine about draping something pretty around your neck. I never tire of trying to make necklaces that really grab attention.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
I really enjoy recreating old jewelry into something new. Many times, clients will bring me sentimental pieces of jewelry that have been inherited, and I will create a brand new piece of jewelry, incorporating those special items. It makes me feel good to know that I've made a wearable memory for someone.

What inspires you to create?
Oh anything and everything! Color, fashion, the right music.

Handsewn Linen and Pearl Cuff

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
A nice cup of hot tea.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
It is an ever-evolving process, isn't it? I set aside a few hours every day for work, usually when at least two out of three kids are in school. Sometimes that means laundry will go unfolded for a little longer but, I figure, the more I treat my jewelry making like a job, the more successful I will become.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?

I love checking out vintage shops, not only for interesting pieces of jewelry but also for architectural finds, like old corbels somebody has pulled out of a house. I am a sucker for striking photography, if the item has been photographed well, I may just favorite the item for the sake of the photo alone.

Pastel Pearl Bauble Necklace

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Probably driving my kids to or from whatever activity they're involved in at the moment!

Where can we find you?
www.shoppinkpaisley.etsy.com
www.facebook.com/PinkPaisleyChicago

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
www.etsy.com/shop/UrbanFarmgirlAndCo: This shop always has something new to look at and her pictures are gorgeous.

Feature Shop: Sillygeese Designs

Got a silly goose in your house? Team member Shannon opened her shop, Sillygeese Designs, because she was inspired by her own three silly geese. Her colorful crochet creations are sure to make the silliest kid smile! Plus, between today and Sunday, Dec. 11, you can save in her shop with coupon code FEATURE30. - Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Shannon

Where are you located?
Just outside of Austin, TX

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a stay-at-home mom to three sillygeese, three pomeranians, and two ragdolls. I enjoy creating for my kids and being my own boss. I just love creating and designing. It has brought tons of joy to my life. I love meeting and conversing with new people and anytime I get to talk crafting with fellow crafters or just those that appreciate it.

Soft Crochet Doll Set -- Molly and Megan

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Mostly hand-crocheted items: scarves, purses, and other fun items.

How/why did you get started?
I always have a project in my hands, and people started buy things from me right off the hook, so to speak, so I looked around and sold on Ebay for a bit then found Etsy. I took a few years off as life got very busy, but when I got pregnant last year and had to slow way way down, people started buying off my hook again, and I reopened my store.

Crochet Boutique Owl and Little Birdie Drawstring Purse

How long have you been crafting?
Since I was a small child, my mom would do craft fairs during the holidays, and all her kids would pitch in to get enough completed to make money for Christmas.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Anything new. I recreate popular items all the time, but I really enjoy being creative and making something for the first time and seeing what I envisioned come to life.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Well yarn :D But more specifically, I like to embelish so I like funfur and beads, too.

Boutique Pink Fun Fur Glitzy Bobby Pins

What inspires you to create?
My kids. I have a range from 10 to 9 months, and they are always inspiring me. My slogan has always been "Hand crocheted with your sillygoose in mind." That is because all my items where inspired by my own sillygeese.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Scissors. I can really get stumped and stopped by a lack of scissors. I've taught kids to knit with pencils, so really it's the scissors.

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
Well, the kids come first -- I am a SAHM mom. Thankfully I have two that are a huge help around the house and with the baby. They also think my business is cool and like to see stuff head out the door to someone else to enjoy.

Boutique Crochet Wild Pink Zebra Eyelash Fashion Scarf

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Sewing patterns and things for the kids.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Reading, anything soccer related, and taking care of a busy household.

Soft Crochet Purple/Brown/Blue Boy Doll -- Aaron

Where can we find you? 
My store is www.SillyGeeseDesigns.etsy.com, and my blog is www.SillyGeeseDesigns.blogspot.com.

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Fluffygirlboutique: Not only does she sew beautiful stuff, but she is super nice too!

Feature Shop: Altered by Jenn

The items in this week's featured shop, Altered by Jenn, are so festive, I want to plan a party! Meet Jenn, the mom behind the shop. Plus, she's offering 20% off all gift boxes until Dec. 7! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Jenn

Where are you located?
Nebraska

Tell us a little about yourself.
I have been married to my wonderful husband since January 2005 and we have 2 children, our son is 5-1/2, and our daughter is 3. I am on the steering team for the local MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers). I grew up in the Air Force, so I really have no home, LOL.

Santa Treat Boxes

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop? 
Banners, cupcake and cake toppers, bookmarks, note pads, Tooth Fairy Tins, and more.

How/why did you get started? 
Everyone kept telling me that I needed to start selling my stuff since it was cute.

How long have you been crafting? 
I've been working with paper since 2006.

Dalmatian Mini Banner - I AM 1

What is your favorite thing to make?
Custom orders. Some of the ideas my customers have asked me to create are things that I would have never thought about making.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Paper and ribbon

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Snacks

Reindeer Treat Boxes

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
I try to only work on my business during nap time and after the kids go to bed at night. But sometimes you'll find me making designs on my Cricut Gypsy to later cut out.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for? 
Inspiration and gifts

Tooth Fairy Tin - Dark Brown Haired Boy

When you're not crafting, what are you doing? 
Spending time with my family, reading, having coffee with friends.

Where can we find you?
Facebook: www.facebook.com/alteredbyjenn
Etsy: www.alteredbyjenn.com
Blog: alteredbyjenn.blogspot.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/alteredbyjenn

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently? 
Pedestrian Designs (www.etsy.com/shop/pedestrian)

Happy Birthday Banner - Lil Birdie Theme

Feature Shop: Handmaiden Canada

Reading these questionnaires each week makes me want to meet everyone in person. This week, I'd like to book a plane ticket to Canada to have a cup of tea or coffee with Rebecca of Handmaiden Canada. Read on to learn more about this mom of nine, her wonderful Waldorf dolls, and her lifetime of crafting. - Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks


What is your name?
Rebecca

Where are you located?
A little place in Ontario, Canada, called Barry's Bay.

Tell us a little about yourself.
I live with my husband and nine children in the "back woods" of Canada. I grew up in the country, and I love it. I love that I can sit out on my back porch in the early morning and hear silence. I love that I can walk down the road to a sparkling, clean lake to swim. I love the drama of the seasons. I love that I can see and feel God in His creation that surrounds me.

Waldorf Doll, Luvkin, Jade, 15 in

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop? 
Handmade Waldorf dolls and doll clothing, handknit and felted purses, upcycled wool purses, girly dresses.

How/why did you get started?
My father and mother both instilled in me a deep love for all things handmade. My dad was a luthier (built handmade guitars) until I was about eight years old, and my mom was the type of mom who would make her own granola, hand-smock each one of us dresses for Easter, always had a knitting project on the go, and wasn't afraid to get her hands dirty in the garden. She had me sewing my first outfit when I was six years old. I'll never forget it...many seams sewn and then ripped out....and then sewn again. Did I mention she had the patience of a saint!? :)

Creativity was always encouraged. It was a very "organic" process. We had trunks of fabric scraps, yarn and craft supplies always at our disposal and we were encouraged to just try stuff. My mother would teach us the skills necessary, and then give us free reign to design and create. And of course she loved every single project even more than the last! A woman can always use another pot holder, right?!

How long have you been crafting?
I remember learning how to embroider when I was really young, probably about 3 or 4. My mom gave me a little piece of gingham in an embroidery hoop and taught me how to do crosstitch.

What is your favorite thing to make?
Waldorf dolls!! I love how each one is completely unique...it's like his or her look and personality gently unfolds as he/she is created.

Waldorf Doll, Luvkin, Fiona, 15 in

Why is it important to you to use recycled or upcycled materials?
Recycling, or "upcycling" as some now call it, was and is just a part of life in a big family. Things are passed down...re-used and re-purposed. We often shop second hand. There is something so ultimately satisfying in taking someone else's "junk" and making it into something funky and useable.

Waldorf Doll Bed -- Rustic Twig Furniture

What makes your dolls unique?
They are one-of-a kind and they are made from all natural materials. The skin and clothing are made from cotton fabrics, they are stuffed with 100% wool for stuffing, and they have hair made from handspun, hand-dyed yarns of natural fibers. They are handmade with love and attention to detail...something that your child could pass on to the next generation.

What inspires you to create?
Colours...people...faces...nature.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
A cup of coffee/tea and MUSIC. :)

How do you balance mothering and running a small business? 
It's tricky, because I don't have huge chunks of time available to me, but I just do a little bit at a time...whenever I get the chance...while helping the kids with homework, riding in the car, waiting in the dentist's office, while watching a movie. You'd be surprised how all those little bits of time add up! ;)

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
Yarn and fabric. :)

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Spending time with my hubby, mothering, enjoying the beauty of nature.

Waldorf Doll Dress, 15 inch, Folk Art Flowers

Where can we find you?
Shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/handmaidencanada
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/handmaidenetsy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Handmaiden-Canada/180546945310397

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
I absolutely LOVE the shop applenamos

Feature Shop: Baby Swank

Team member Meagan Visser is a busy mom of two expecting her third in December! She runs Etsy shop Baby Swank, where she sells handmade, eco-friendly items for babies and toddlers, and coaches other work-at-home-moms on her coaching blog, MeaganVisser.com. Thanks for sharing your story, Meagan! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name? 
Meagan Visser

Where are you located?
I live in the beautiful Southern Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee in a little town called Butler. We’re very rural, and it’s just perfect for us. I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else!

Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a SAHM to two boys ages 3 and 18 months. We’re expecting our third baby this December, and yes, it’s another boy! I’m so blessed! LOL! I’m married to my high school sweetheart although he was homeschooled. I love living and learning about the natural life, using herbs, being self-sufficient, and making things for my family.

Mini Bath Bombs

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
I offer fashionable and eco-friendly products for babies and toddlers. That includes my OOAK handmade baby and toddler bibs called Washcloth Bibs, cloth flannel baby wipes, and a new line of natural skin care products.

How/why did you start your business?
I started my shop as a creative outlet when my kiddos were small. I’m always doing creative things and I thought that I’d give selling them a try for fun and extra money. It took me a while to come up with something that I thought was unique and original enough to create a business around, but once I found that, it seemed like everything else just fell into place.

Crocheted Scrubbie - 3 Pack

How long have you been crafting?
I’d say I’ve been seriously crafting since I was in high school. At least that’s when I really got interested in it. I’ve always loved to make things, but I don’t think I realized how crafting was actually a part of life and that you can make so many things that you can use.

What is your favorite thing to make?
I love making any kind of handmade gifts for people! I think it’s seeing their reactions when they open a gift and know that I’ve spend time and energy making it just for them.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
Wow, I have so many. It’s hard for me to narrow it down into just a few. I’m one of those people who wants to be well-rounded and wants to learn all kinds of ways of crafting. I love to sew, I love to decorate cakes, I love to make herbal products, I love to crochet, and I dabble in jewelry making and ceramics a bit. I’m sure there’s more, too!

Baby Bib Pack

What inspires you to create?
I think seeing beautiful things gives me inspiration, whether it’s another product or a color palette or a stunning photo. Even hearing someone talk about something they’d like or need can bring on inspiration. I want to recreate it in my own way to fit my needs or to create something that will fit someone else’s needs.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
I don’t think I have anything in particular that I need to have with me. I do need my space to be clutter free, but that’s about it. I like being organized and prepared so if I start something, I want all the unnecessary junk out of my way and I want everything I’ll need within reach!

Baby Gift Basket

How do you balance mothering and running a small business?
Oh that can be a challenge! Besides running my Etsy shop, I also run a coaching website for mompreneurs – MeaganVisser.com - and that’s something that I know a lot of moms struggle with. I’m not perfect at it by any means!

To start off with, I know my priorities and they’re set in stone. Family first! I fit my business into my life, not my life into my business. Yes, I want to be successful, but successful to me is having a happy, well-cared-for family and doing what I love. There are times that I need to step back and refocus, but that’s normal and it’s a good thing.

I’d say the things that work best for me is to have a daily routine and do my best at sticking to a schedule. I try not to overwhelm myself by having too many “to-dos” each day. I’d rather under schedule my day, than to over schedule it. I get done what I need to during my work times and if for some reason I have extra time, great! I’ll do some more. I also schedule in times for my children’s school {we homeschool}, lunch, cleaning and family time. Some days are more rushed and things get skipped depending on what all I have to do, but for the most part we do well with everything!

Sample Pack - (3) 2 oz Sample Sizes

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I love looking for gifts for people and I love finding beautiful treasuries to share.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Probably teaching my little guys, spending time with friends and family, cooking/cleaning, sleeping, etc.

Where can we find you? (Etsy link, blog, Facebook, Twitter, stores, etc.)
Etsy Shop: http://babyswank.etsy.com
MeaganVisser.com: http://meaganvisser.com
Baby Swank Blog: http://babyswank.blogspot.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/EtsyBabySwank
Twitter: http://twitter.com/MeaganVisser

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Oooh, tough…I have so many! I’d say my newest favorite find would be The Cozy Project {thecozyproject.etsy.com} because I love coffee and herbal teas and she has the cutest, most creative cozies for your cups!

Feature Shop: A Mother's Art

I hope you've enjoyed meeting the leaders of the team! Last, but certainly not least, I'd like to introduce you to team captain Rebecca of A Mother's Art and Olive Smiles. She's this week's feature shop, so keep reading to find out what inspires her and how she's dedicated to helping other small businesses succeed. Thanks for your hard work and dedication to our team, Rebecca! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks.

What is your name?
Rebecca

Where are you located?
Princeton, New Jersey

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am, of course, a stay-at-home mom who loves using her free time creating art. My husband and I have been together for 10 years and have two beautiful children together. My husband's days are filled with being an aerospace engineer, and before retiring to became a mommy I was an assistant project manager in the real estate construction industry. Following my new love of art and photography, I've decided to go back to college to receive a degree in Fine Arts. 

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
Stopping by my shop, you will find muted, soft colors of whimsical, imaginative wall art for children. I pull together an assortment of mediums to create scenes that can help children dream their own stories. I find peace in bringing square pieces of paper to life. It's my "me" time.

How/why did you get started?
When I found out I was having a little girl, I pictured her room full of pink, colorful flowers, butterflies, and all things girly. The room accessories I found in stores where expensive and did not meet my vision. I decided to try and carry out my idea by creating my own wall art. I stopped by an art store, picked up a canvas and some other art supplies, headed home, dug up some vintage paper from old books that were falling apart and created my very first piece. "A New Beginning."

How long have you been crafting?
I have been crafting ever since I could hold a crayon. My mother and aunt were very creative and always had fun projects to do.

What inspires you to create?
When I see certain color combinations together, hear songs like "Pure Imagination," or see inspiration from other artist, that is what gets my creative juices flowing. Music definitely helps warm up my imagination. The past few weeks I've been listening to "Mary Had a Little Amp," a CD made up of many artists brought together by Madonna.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
When I craft I always need a blank piece of paper and some colored pencils to draw out my thoughts. I also need to have time, since my craft can take hours, sometimes days or weeks.

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I can get lost browsing Etsy, usually for nothing in particular. Getting hooked always starts with the front page treasury. I click on a box and it just pulls me in landing on one artist's favorites after another. It's amazing all that can be found on Etsy; that's why I love creating themed treasuries.  It's always fun and easy to fulfill since Etsy's artists sell everything under the golden sun.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
During my time when I'm not expressing my creative outlook on life, I am documenting it through photography. Photography has always been a love of mine, but not until I had children did my true passion emerge. My poor over-photographed children at times have to say "No cheese mommy"; that's when I know it's time to put a lid on it. One day my children will understand and thank me for all the beautiful photographs they will have to share with their families.

Where can we find you?
When I'm not documenting my family's every move or pulling colored paper together on canvas you will find me helping local handcrafting artists on www.OliveSmiles.com. I started a fun community of passionate artists looking to help other passionate artists build their brand. Olive Smiles is where artists come together to share skills and ideas from one another in order to push the handcrafting movement. Buy Local, Buy Handmade!

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Browsing Etsy for years I have gained a whole new respect and love of the arts. It's amazing what people can create using their minds, their imaginations and their digits. Not only are their pieces amazing but their stories are as well, many hitting home which at times brings me to tears. I am so excited they found their passion and an outlet to share. One shop I feel is a favorite is Katie Daisy from "The Wheatfield." Mostly due to her energetic, youthful, feminine art and her story. I adore Katie's use of color, quotations and characters and how she wanders the country in search for inspirational stories to share on canvas. Take the time to fall in love and visit Katie at http://www.etsy.com/people/thewheatfield. You'll be glad you did!

Feature Shop: Lilly Bunns Boutique

This week, meet Celesa, our blog team leader, and proprietress of Lilly Bunns Boutique. Celesa and her team make sure this blog is interesting and useful every week! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks.

What is your name?
Celesa J.

Where are you located?
Just outside of Houston, TX

Tell us a little about yourself.
I'm a SAHM who was born to be one. I've pretty much always known I wanted to be a SAHM. I'm very blessed to have a great little three-year-old daughter.  I love being able to be the one to teach her and shape who she is. I've been married to my wonderful hubby for six years.

Zebra Print Embellished Prefold Burp Cloths

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?
My merch is always changing. I'm always inspired by new things, and my shop reflects that. My items will always be expanding because I'll always be changing and looking for new ways to put my spin on an old hobby.

How/why did you get started?
Absolute boredom got me started on the path to be a WAHM. I still wouldn't consider myself "there" yet. I've always been the type of person who sees something but refused to buy it because I could make it. I kept getting more and more friends and others asking me to make things for them. When I stumbled across Etsy, I knew it was something I needed to do!

How long have you been crafting?
For freaking ever, lol. My grandmas were always crafting around me, and I just fell in love. I wanted to do what they were doing. They always had crafts for me to do. Eventually they taught me to sew and crochet, and the rest is history!

What inspires you to create?
Everything. I love to get on the crafting blogosphere and go from one craft to the next. I have crafting ADD, so it's hard for me to focus!

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
Sound. I am one of four children raised in a 1500 square foot house. It was always noisy, and I can't focus on what I'm doing unless I have something to tune out!

Zebra and Lime Green Key Fob

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I love to browse Etsy for just about anything. I'm usually looking for supplies or a present for my daughter.

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
When I'm not crafting, I'm blogging, tweeting, on Facebook, perusing Pinterest, or spending time with my family. Oh, and cleaning. I hate to clean, but someone's gotta do it.

Where can we find you?
I have a NEW blog! crunchycraftyandcrazy.blogspot.com
Twitter: @lillybunns
Facebook: Facebook.com/lillybunnsboutique
Store: Lillybunnsboutique.etsy.com

Little Punkin Hat

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
Besides the shops of the lovely ladies on the SAHM of Etsy team, I adore SimplyByBex. The craftsmanship is absolutely amazing!

Pink and Brown Double Minky Blanket

Feature Shop: Little Princess Pea

This week, meet Anne, co-captain of our team and the creative mom behind the lovely designs of Little Princess Pea! -Cori of Peace, Baby! Batiks

What is your name?
Anne

Where are you located?
Naperville, IL (suburb of the windy city :)

Tell us a little about yourself.
I am a SAHM to three great kids. My boys are 9 and 5, and my daughter just turned 3. I love to craft, scrapbook, play games, and hang out with family.  Before kids, I was an elementary teacher of the academically bright and gifted, and although I miss teaching in the classroom, my kids provide me with the opportunity to use my skill set everyday! I am lucky that I am able to be at home with my kids and have a supportive husband. I am enjoying my new adventure, which is Etsy, and look forward to expanding this little business I have created!

Flower Loop Bow Halloween Witch

What type of merchandise will shoppers find in your shop?You will find hair accessories such as bows clippies and headbands, brooches, and I have added small cards and tags.

How/why did you get started?
I was the mom of two boys before my daughter was born. When she arrived I was introduced to the "children's boutique world". She had a bit of hair, so naturally I wanted to put a bow in it :) I could not do that with my boys! So I bought several high-end hair accessories. I thought to myself, I can make these for a lot less! So began my obsession with making hair accessories :) My style is simple, practical, and fun. My motto is "Just add a little something extra." I feel like a nice small hair clip in my daughter's hair can make all the difference in making an outfit stand out. The same holds true of my paper products: a simple design to express a sentiment.

Felt Rosette Flower Headband Orange and Yellow

How long have you been crafting?I have always considered myself crafty but not necessarily artsy, if that makes sense. As a child I loved doing crafts and working with my hands. Making handmade Christmas ornaments was one of my favorite things to do at school each year. But I was not very good in art class (drawing, painting, etc.). I learned very young how to crochet and do needlepoint too. I don't do those activities as much anymore but would like to revisit that when my kids are a bit older.

What inspires you to create?
My little girl was my inspiration for creating Little Princess Pea, and my boys are my biggest supporters.

What is one thing you need to have with you while you craft?
I do like to listen to music. Sometimes my crafting is done when my kids are in bed so catching up on TV shows is something I like to do too :)

Holiday Vintage Patterned Gift Tags

What is your favorite thing to browse Etsy for?
I love to browse for girly clothes for my daughter, but I like to also look for boy items, which are not as prevalent, unfortunately. Perhaps I need to add something for boys to my shop!

When you're not crafting, what are you doing?
Activities with my kids, including games and reading. My boys are sporty; we have one hockey player and one soccer player, so going to practices and games keep us busy. My daughter started dance class, too.  So we are busy with activities all the time!

Elegant Turquoise Fabric Flower Brooch

Where can we find you? (Etsy link, blog, Facebook, Twitter, stores, etc.)My shop is www.littleprincesspea.etsy.com
My email is littleprincesspea3@yahoo.com
My Facebook page link is http://www.facebook.com/pages/Little-Princess-Pea/157615910935008

What is your favorite item in your shop?
I am enjoying making some new fabric flower hair clips.  More to come in November!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/77899577/black-and-white-polka-dot-round-fabric

Fabulous Fabric Flower Bow Headband

What is your favorite shop (not yours) on Etsy currently?
I adore Kid's Fashions by Linda (http://www.etsy.com/shop/madly2005?ref=seller_info). She makes quality kids clothing and is super easy to work with. She has made several things for me including some holiday gifts this past Christmas!