Monday, January 28, 2013

Wedding Season Is Just Around The Corner

 Planning is in full swing for those summer weddings.  I thought I would share a picture of a recent order for a bridal party.  (I can't say whose just in case one of the girls reads this...)


 
 
I think they will love them, don't you? I had a thought while working on these today.  I bet the bride didn't think to get herself one and I think she should have one. So, --------, contact me with your new initials and I will send one to you FREE! 
That sounds like it would be a neat promotion.  Ok then! 
To all Brides!
 
Order monogrammed clutches for your bridal party and yours will be included for free!! (Just mention this promotion in your order)
 
Enjoy!!

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Briar Rose

I haven't mentioned yet that this venture originally started with my daughter Ashley.  She was 9 months pregnant and obsessed with buying appliquéd and monogrammed clothes for her baby girl.  She graduated from FSU with a degree in Fashion Merchandising and has always had a flair for design.  We decided to buy her a smaller machine so she could  make specialty children's clothing. Here are a couple of things that she has for sale in her Etsy shop.

So cute right?

In fact, she is having a sample sale tomorrow night.  You just may want to check it out.  Here is her Facebook page.
Enjoy!!

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

I have figured out something about myself.  Completion. Done. Check.  Finishing something brings one of my very favorite feelings. Satisfaction.  Today really didn't offer me that.  It's not that I didn't get anything done, I did.  It was just a little bit of too many things.  After taking my daughter to school, I went into my studio to begin working.  I am in the middle of a customer's job for 6 dozen hats with their logo.  They brought me their digitized file and unfortunately it is not stitching properly so that got placed on hold.  Next, since I have had issues with my back for about 6 days now, I decided to try a stretch class at the gym.  It was nice but being right in the middle of the morning, it was hard for me to shut down my mind and relax. Probably something that will get easier with practice.  Oh well, back to work. I decided to work on some of the clutch purse orders.  The good news is that I received an order for some bridesmaids.  Love that!  After lunch, I had an appointment for a massage. (I know...poor me.)  I had a gift certificate that I bought my husband for Christmas 2 years ago!  I figure if he hasn't used it by now, my back pain justifies my snatching it.  It was awesome.  This time I became so relaxed I was ready for a nap.  Actually what happened is that it zapped me of all of my energy and drive.  Once back in the  studio, I decided to tackle some paper work in order to prepare for doing my taxes.  I am setting up a software program that will make it easier soon, just not now.  Does anyone know the difference between Purchases- Resale and Cost of Goods Sold? (next to-do on my list) 
Well, here I am now planning a purchase of the cutest bathing suits for babies.  This is the fun part!  There are a limited number available now but more will be available in April.  Since I am in Florida I hope I am able to get my order in before they are gone!

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Enjoying The World of Monogramming

For most of my adult life, I have had the mind of an entrepreneur. I am sure that came from my wonderful father, a man who seemed to know about everything.  Like him, I am also somewhat creative in a homey (family, home-body, white picket fence- you get the idea) kind of way.  I went to college and graduated as a Dental Hygienist but only as a way to support myself if necessary.  My real dream was to create a wonderful home for my family and somehow have an income as well. (i.e..  my own business)  I have tried many things to be able to do that but my latest opportunity feels like it is the ONE.  I was given the chance to buy a friends Embroidery business last April, which I did, and I have loved every minute of it.  Her business was basically by word of mouth and primarily just items that customers brought to her.  Well, I see so many more possibilities.  I can hardly stop the ideas from falling all over each other trying to be the first one implemented.  So, I thought maybe you would like to join me on the journey of the growth of a business.  I would enjoy hearing your feedback, tossing ideas around and having a support group to keep me on track. 
Me...sportin' a pocket tee and ball cap.
I opened an Etsy shop in September while I build my website.  Business was fantastic.  The biggest seller with over 600 sold is the monogrammed clutch. There are 12 awesome colors to choose from.  I was shocked how quickly these took off.  I also have scarves, spa/bath wraps, luggage handles, tote bags, pocket tees, ball caps, cosmetic bags and so much more coming. (of course- all monogrammed!) The plan is to have the website go live just as soon as possible. Wow!  Do you know how much work there is to build a website? I am so impatient too.  I want to share all the cute things I have for you!
So, please come back and share the journey. 
Enjoy!