Inside Scoop : Wendy, aka Weeza, McCall

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Weeza McCALL of StringingAlong  a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Weeza wanted to share~

1) my babies (shh, don't tell them they're adopted!) -- 2 & 3) Bead manufacturing day at my house -- 4) My favorite item to make, footprints!

Shops:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/wmweeza
        Http://stringingalong.com

FB: http://www.facebook.com/StringingHope

Tagline: I'm a jewelry designer and small business owner, but really...I play with clay all day

My signature color(s): For me? Brown or tan. For my jewelry?Blue and brown  

3 things in my handbag right now: Advil, cell phone,coupons. I'm not exactly a purse girl

The superpower I would love to have: Instantly know when a crime was occurring and stop it  

I get inspired by: Colors and patterns!  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? Florence Italy. I've never been there but every image I've ever seen is amazing. Or my hometown of Seattle, I live two states away right now

What I’m reading: 1491, about pre-Columbus America  

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Selling in a boutique, my website expanded

Favorite Reality TV Show: Biggest loser and The Bachelorette 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Foundation, it hides a multitude of sins

What's your favorite item you've ever made? I can't pick, really

Thanks Weeza! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : debrah block krol

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Debrah Block Krol of DBK Design a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Debrah wanted to share~

1) picasso -- 2) hydrangea neckpiece -- 3) picasso mesh cuff -- 4) opal ring -- 5) my guys -- 6) me

Shop: www.dbkdesignarts.com
Blog: http://dbkdesign.wordpress.com
FB: www.facebook.com/dbkdesingarts

Tagline: elegant edgy jewelry and accessories

My signature color(s): i love all colors! if i had to pick a favorite, i would pick blue, but i don't think that reflects in my work.  

3 things in my handbag right now: mirror, business cards, almonds

The superpower I would love to have: to cure illness  

I get inspired by: just about everything- color, texture, nature, ballet, music, art, fashion  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? italy, greece, spain

What I’m reading: just finished clara and mr tiffany, about a woman designer in louis comfort tiffany's glass studio--it was excellent! now i am reading a novel titled, "there but for the...."  

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? well of course i would like to still BE in business, having grown over the ensuing time..i would like to have a commercial account with a large retailer, like anthropologie, and have several lines in production.

Favorite Reality TV Show: don't watch reality tv--but i kinda like the judge shows, especially judge alex... 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? concealer...hides a multitude of sins---

What's your favorite item you've ever made? usually it's the item i am currently working on, but i have grown quite attached to an oval ring i made, and wear it almost every day.

Thanks Debrah! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Julicia Hernandez

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Julicia Hernandez of Julicia's Creations a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Julicia wanted to share~

1) Triple wrap Customizable bracelet -- 2) Butterfly Pendant necklace -- 2) my Leather in Bloom Necklace -- 4) pic of me

Shops:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/juliciascreations
http://www.zibbet.com/juliciascreations
Blog:http://juliciascreations.com
FB: http://www.facebook.com/JuliciasCreations

Tagline: Handcrafted Custom Leather Jewelry and Accessories

My signature color(s): Deep purple/eggplant and Gold  

3 things in my handbag right now: Wallet,coupons, and weekly grocery ads

The superpower I would love to have: super speed  

I get inspired by: Fashion, Nature, My dreams, My Children  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? I would be a Gypsy, with many homes I love the winter season here in Arizona  Love the summer in Los Angeles, Spring In Puerto Rico and maybe fall in Europe(Italy,spain) if moneys no object why limit to one place : )

What I’m reading: No time for reading unless its my emails,Fb,twitter,and everything else im doing on the computer  

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? In 5 years I would really love to be a More succesful Leather Artist, a steady stream of customers, maybe be in local shops or have my own place, Have my Leather skills always improving and able to do my own patterns and stencils. be Noticed by Leather guilds for my work in Leather.

Favorite Reality TV Show: Like shows on DIY,HGTV extreme couponing (TLC), intervention,hoaders 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? chapstick, I dont wear makeup

What's your favorite item you've ever made? My Leather Feather earrings " Flights Of Fancy earrings" http://www.etsy.com/listing/47826513/flights-of-fancy-earings-ooak

Thanks Julicia! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Aya Turner

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Aya Turner of Aya Designs a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Aya wanted to share~

-- 1) I love quiet beaches like this one in Sarasota, where I dog sit a couple times a year in exchange for a cute place on Siesta Key (my best friend's place) -- 2) Sanary, France where my Mom lives and where I am fortunate to spend a lot of my free time when not in the US -- 3)My pride and joy, my two beautiful daughters: Daphne and Lindsay visiting me in Atlanta! -- 4) I love this piece, all natural stones, wood and pearls with those earthy colors I love:

Shop: ww.ayadesigns.artfire.com

FB: www.facebook.com/ayadesigns

Tagline: I sell beautiful handmade jewelry and very affordable prices

My signature color(s): I don't have just one color although I seem to gravitate to earthy tones and magentas  

3 things in my handbag right now: my teeny wallet, a pen and business cards ... add the cellphone when it's in use

The superpower I would love to have: wow ... I suppose I'd love to fly ... it would make my travels a lot less expensive LOL  

I get inspired by: the beauty of nature, my travels, my French mother who is one of the most elegant women out there! 

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? The Gard region of the south of France

What I’m reading: The Matchmaker of Perigord by Julia Stuart (one of 3 books right now)  

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? hopefully business will have picked up that I can let my daughter take over while I'm basking in the sun in the South of France.

Favorite Reality TV Show: I don't watch much TV but I suppose I like Jeopardy (that's reality, right?) 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? well, I'm lucky there - I don't wear make-up other than occasionally putting on mascara (very occasionally)

What's your favorite item you've ever made? I made a gorgeous cocktail ring with beautiful stones that I've never been able to find again.

Thanks Aya! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Sheila Hoag

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Sheila Hoag of Tradewinds Studios a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Sheila wanted to share~

1) an Irish Crochet Pin -- 2) my last vacation (Canyon De Chelley, Arizona)
-- 3) A very one-of-a-kind Rhodochrosite Cabochon -- 4) one of my Irish Corchet Necklaces

Shops:
http://www.tradewinds-studios.com/  - my own website
http://topaz08.etsy.com/ - my Etsy shop with the lovely crochet items
http://www.etsy.com/shop/tradewindsstudios  - my Etsy shop with Designer Cabochons
Blog: http://lapidaryart.blogspot.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/topaz08

My signature color(s): Autumn colors - rust, copper, orange  

3 things in my handbag right now: I don't have a handbag, but 3 things on my desk are a bottle of water, a telescope and a pile of crochet hooks.

The superpower I would love to have: The power to unclutter!  

I get inspired by: Nature 

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? New Zealand, Australia.  Maybe Bora Bora.  Someplace I haven't been yet.

What I’m reading: Far and Away; A Prize Everytime by Neil Peart  

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? I'd like to be doing what I am now, custom and unique work that's an art, not a job.

Favorite Reality TV Show: Deadliest Catch 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? I don't use makeup, so I'll go with lip balm.

What's your favorite item you've ever made? The baby blankets I made for my kids.

Thanks Sheila! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Crystal Lynn Collins

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Crystal of Crystal Lynn Photography a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Crystal wanted to share~

#1 A new piece that is about to hit my Etsy shop! -- #2 Picture of my blank note cards -- #3 My Kittys, Layla & Coda -- #4 Sunset in Moorea, French Polynesia 

Shop: www.photographybycrystallynn.com
Blog: www.photographybycrystallynn.com/blog
FB: www.facebook.com/crystallynnphotography

Tagline: Photographing. Life.Style.Art

My signature color(s): Black, White   

3 things in my handbag right now: lip balm, cell phone, debit card

I get inspired by: Music, Art, Love  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? French Polynesia

What I’m reading: In defense of Food  

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Would like to have a few more items in my shop, and hope to be photographing more destination weddings.

Favorite Reality TV Show: Whale Wars 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? I don't wear makeup!!

What's your favorite item you've ever made? My blank note cards are my favorite item.

Thanks Crystal! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Nathalie Girard

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Nathalie Girard of NG Originals a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Nathalie wanted to share~

1) The castle is the Chateau Frontenac, in Old Quebec (Quebec City)… I spent a good part of my life near the castle as it is surrounded by beautiful parks and I was born and raised in that town. --2) A picture of my own home made fruit ketchup, made with my own organic tomatoes (I have a garden and I also grow some fruits). -- 3) A shot I took of the Rocky Mountains nearby… a great source of inspiration to me. -- 4) My two Yorkies playing in the snow -- 5) A picture of my favourite breakfast, with some of my own organic tiny strawberries from my garden. I love to garden, even if the season is quite short up here most years.

Shop:  http://www.NGOriginals.com
Blog:  http://www.NGOriginals.com/blog

FB: https://www.facebook.com/canadianrockiesart

Tagline: Soulful Metal Artisan Jewelry That Expresses Your Individuality!

My signature color(s): When I make jewelry: Aqua, blue, green -- Colors that I wear: Pink, Purple, Aqua blue 

3 things in my handbag right now: RX Sunglasses, RX glasses, Wallet

The superpower I would love to have: I'd love to have a Bionic body. I'd be able to work much faster and create all those millions of ideas roaming around in my head! I'd also be able to run errands quicker if I had bionic legs, so that would give me more free time to cuddle my two little dogs :o)  

I get inspired by: The Ocean & The Mountains 

What I’m reading: Currently, about 30-odd books all going at once, anything from health, to business, to writing and metalwork techniques.  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? Hawaii

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? I see myself being able to sustain myself & my family comfortably, working full-time at creating what I love.

Favorite Reality TV Show: It's a French Canadian show: Occupation Double 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Moisturizer with SPF15 incorporated in it. 

Why? All the make up in the world won't look good if the skin underneath is not well hydrated and pampered… so I'm going for the natural well-hydrated skin. The sun from Hawaii (my dream spot) will give me the "glow" and colour.

What's your favorite item you've ever made? My Reef Necklace here: http://tinyurl.com/ReefNecklace

I made the pendant from scratch using Fine Silver Metal Clay (PMC3), and I also did the glass enamel on top, as well as the bar & round/oval links by fusing and forging metal. It's an ocean inspired piece that means a lot to me :o)

Thanks Nathalie! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Jessica Gattone

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Jessica Gattone of Sparetire Design a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Jessica wanted to share~

Five photos of different types of stationery I design:
Buzzy Bee- note cards
Sun Burst- thank you note cards
Lovely Lavender- personalized stationery
Oh Baby- shower invitation
Modern Damask- wedding invitation

Shop: http://www.sparetiredesign.com
FB: http://www.facebook.com/SparetireDesign
Blog: http://www.sparetiredesign.com/wordpress

Tagline: Print and Stationery Design Solutions

My signature color(s): My company colors are Blue/Gray (graphic design), Purple/Gray (stationery design). As for a specific color I like to design with, it all depends on the project. I tend to use natural colors, gray and tan are my favorite neutral colors to use to balance brighter tones.  

3 things in my handbag right now: I don't carry a handbag; I have a small wrist wallet, I carry my phone and lip gloss with me.

The superpower I would love to have: I would love to be able to clap and make people laugh hysterically on the spot, I mean the big belly laugh that makes everyone else laugh too. Life is so much better when you can laugh and let loose.  

I get inspired by: Nature: contrast, shape, form and color. I can sit and watch the wind blow and water flow for hours, I always come away clear minded and ready to create.
Music: I need music, all day long. 

What I’m reading: Just finished reading "The Help" next on my list "Little Bee" by Chris Cleave  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? I think I would like to live in British Columbia, the scenery is just spectacular. But I am an east coast girl at heart.

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? In five years all of my children will be in school full time, my plan and hope is to grow my business steadily over the next few years to be able to create a full time studio; right now it is part time. I want to continue with creating stationery, print and brand solutions and possibly create some designs that can cross over into other areas.

Favorite Reality TV Show: I am not a big reality TV fan, but I have tuned into The Biggest Loser. Usually while eating a brownie or bowl of ice cream :) 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Mascara. I have really light eyelashes and feel naked if I don't have mascara.

What's your favorite item you've ever made? In art school we had a chair building studio; we had to create a chair that evoked feeling. I choose to design and make mine reflecting peace and comfort found on the shore. I found an old pallet for the seat; went to the local mill and used some reclaimed bark trimmings for the back and legs to represent the wood fence along the dunes. Then I bought some thick rope from the junk yard to weave in and out of the back pieces. Finally I made a big cushion with a sea blue fabric. It was a beast but I loved that chair!

Thanks Jessica! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Autumn Bradley

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Autumn of Autumn Bradley Inc. a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Autumn wanted to share~

- #1: My favorite girl.  She's been with me through college, 3 jobs, 2 guys, and 5 moves!  - #2: My needy little boy.  As you can see, he has static issues in the winter.  - #3: Grandma and Grandpa.  They were such an important part of my life while they were here and still are.  I miss them everyday.  - #4: My parents and me back in the day.  Love that moustache!!

Shop: www.autumnbradley.com
FB: www.facebook.com/autumnbradleyjewelrydesign
Blog: www.autumnbradley.blogspot.com

My signature color(s): Black  

3 things in my handbag right now: Measuring tape, Ipod, sunglasses

The superpower I would love to have: The ability to rescue all the homeless, abandoned, & abused animals  

I get inspired by: Music & fashion 

What I’m reading: Sadly, no time for anything at the moment.  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? Galapagos Islands.  Just me and nature.

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Doing what I love, jewelry.

Favorite Reality TV Show: I Shouldn't Be Alive.  It's so inspiring to see what these people go through and the will they have to survive.  It makes me feel like a big jerk when I'm whining over having a cold or a bad day at work. 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Lip gloss.  It's just necessary, that's all.

What's your favorite item you've ever made? A faceted moonstone ring.  I made it too big on purpose so I don't keep it for myself.

Thanks Autumn! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop: Monica Collins

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Monica Collins of TG Bears a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Monica wanted to share~

Shop: http://www.tgbears.com
FB: http://www.facebook.com/tgbears
Blog: http://tgbears.blogspot.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/tgbears

My signature color(s): Blues - purples - reds  

3 things in my handbag right now: My smartphone, a pen, my wallet

The superpower I would love to have: The ability to read my husband's mind so that I don't have to pull the words out of his mouth!  

I get inspired by: A myriad of vibrant colors in one spot. 

What I’m reading: Craft books and my Bible  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? On a remote island - but with a good internet connection.

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Having provided furry friends for lots of people and TG Bears being a known teddy bear brand

Favorite Reality TV Show: Dancing with the Stars 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Lip-ice - the dry Arizona air does not bode well otherwise

What's your favorite item you've ever made? Appliqué placemats that I made for my mother.

Thanks Monica! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Diane Perry

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Diane Perry of Catcophony Wearable Art a little better by reading her responses to my fun, and unexpected, questions.

~some photos Diane wanted to share~

Shop: http://catcophony.artfire.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/Catcophony

My signature color(s): forest green/copper  

3 things in my handbag right now: Weight Watchers Calculator, business cards, coupon cards for my website

The superpower I would love to have: Leap tall buildings with a single bound? faster than a locomotive? X-ray vision? No, I think invisibility would be the best  

I get inspired by: Nature is a big inspiration. I live out on five acres and it's all around. But if truth be told, inspiration hits me at the oddest times in the least likely settings. 

What I’m reading: Usually any good mystery or science fiction, but right now I am revisiting the Old Testament  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? There are so many choices--of the places I have been, half a year in Hawaii and half a year in Tuscany

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Successful--I hope to further define my line and consistently make a living doing what I enjoy.

Favorite Reality TV Show: Survivor 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Mascara--I look younger and rested with it on

What's your favorite item you've ever made? Actually, its the copper embossed and dyed earrings that I made for the Academy Awards press bags that are in GBK Productions Gift Lounge. My vision was a good one, but the outcome was spectacular. I am making more for the holiday shows I am doing and working in other metals (brass and tin). The effect is like an impressionist painting on metal.

Thanks Diane! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Etsy Love : Jannio

I'm a hat freak! I wear mostly newsboy style because they seem to look best on me, but I love all styles.

These hats by Jannio are absolutely awesome. Super creative while still being wearable! Browse through her shop, Jannio, you'll be impressed, I promise! :)

Jannio - Cute details.

Jannio - Love the texture!!

Jannio - Cute front, wait till you see the back! (below)

Jannio - The Back! OMG, I adore this :)

~xx~ deb.

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Inside Scoop : Emma Maudsley

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Emma of Sock Monkey Emporium a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Emma wanted to share, read about them, by #, at the bottom of this interview~

Shop: www.etsy.com/shop/SockMonkeyEmporiumUK
FB: www.facebook.com/SockMonkeyEmporium
Blog: www.blogspot.com/SockMonkeyEmporium

My signature color(s): Purple and Teal  

3 things in my handbag right now: Purse, Hairbrush and Business Cards  

The superpower I would love to have: Invisibility......or supersonic sewing!!!  

I get inspired by: my children and their imaginations  

What I’m reading: The Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? Cornwall.....or Scotland..... BOTH!!! 

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Hopefully still making enough to support myself and my kids - maybe having someone do some of the basic sewing to speed me along 

Favorite Reality TV Show: Strictly Come Dancing 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? I don't really wear it so I'm not fussed day to day. For a night out it would be mascara as I make the effort to put my contacts in and I like my eyes :D  

What's your favorite item you've ever made? My 1st ever monkey - he looks bloody awful but if I hadn't have made him then I wouldn't be where I am now. He is sat on a shelf keeping an eye on the newcomers! 

Emma's photo stories: 

#1 Eiffel Tower - had wanted to visit Paris all my life and finally got there Summer 2010 - just me and my daughters :)
#2 Owls - beautiful birds and we had a group visit for my daughters' joint birthday party this summer
#3 my 1st monkey - not a reflection of my current work HA!
#4 my hobby - cross stitching - not something I get much time for at the minute :(
#5 my daughters - my inspiration and reason for getting out of bed :D 

~

Thanks Emma! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

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Etsy Love : TreeHouse 28

I want one of everything in this shop! --I think I'll start with those awesome long, sexy arm warmers! :)

TreeHouse28 - I adore this top!

Treehouse28 - LOVE these arm warmers and that hooded top!

Treehouse28 - Gorgeous Look!

~xx~ deb.

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Inside Scoop : Melissa Arnold

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Melissa Arnold of Sahetah’s Jewelry a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos NAME wanted to share~

Shop: www.SahetahsJewelry.com
FB: www.facebook.com/sahetahsjewelryfanpage
Blog: sahetahscrazedwritings.blogspot.com

My signature color(s): Purple  

3 things in my handbag right now: mascara, handmade earrings from my shop, 3 pounds of small change  

The superpower I would love to have: The power to change people. Why? Because I think that’s the only power that could stop animal abuse.  

I get inspired by: Spending time with my best friend who is also an entrepreneur and talking about business really gets me inspired. We are motivated by what each other is doing and we help each other out. It is great having that kind of support around. We can come up with great and fun ideas.  

What I’m reading: What I’m waiting to read is the final book of the Wheel of Time series by the late Robert Jordan. Best writer there ever was.  

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? Right here, cuz I take care of my grampa...but if ‘he’ was willing to move, we’d move to florida by the beach as a nice retirement for him. 

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? I would love it if my business was my main job because it was doing well. I don’t want it to be horribly busy as I would love to have time for family, but certainly something I can dedicate a few hours of each day to. If I had family members to pitch in with deliveries and packaging, that would be amazing. I would still love to do craft shows. Hopefully have a beautiful set up that looks like you just walked into a shop in the middle of a craft show. I just love meeting the people who love my work, talking to them and hearing their stories. I always want to keep that part of my business. 

Favorite Reality TV Show: Kitchen Nightmares, or Whale Wars...but that could be considered a documentary. I don’t actually like ‘reality shows’. Kitchen Nightmares really opens you up for what is going on in the kitchen and how your food is being prepared. If the food don’t look right or taste right, you start to wonder if the fridges look like anything that Chef Ramsey has discovered on Kitchen Nightmares. 

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? I rarely put on makeup, and even then just a little cover up and some mascara does the trick. But if I had to live with one, I think it will have to be the cover-up.  

What's your favorite item you've ever made? That is an easy choice. The Cinderella book that I have had since I was a little girl is my favourite item of all time, and I may be far out grown those children’s books, but that book is here to stay.
 
My parents would never buy me toys or books unless it was from a thrift store. While walking through a mall with my parents and great grandparents we stopped at a small bookstore. I instantly fell in love with the Cinderella book as I loved the movie, but didn’t own it. It was the fairy tale ‘I’ wanted, but my parents would not buy it for me. I didn’t put up much of a fuss, but I was certainly sad. My great Grampa saw me with the book that I was squeezing, and bought it for me hushing both my parents. I remember thinking something like ‘My Grampa must love me if he’s buying this at a real bookstore!” And I have taken care of the book ever since. 

~

Thanks Melissa! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

   
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Inside Scoop : Tara of Taradara

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Tara of Taradara a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Tara wanted to share~

Shop: http://taradara.etsy.com
FB: TaraDara
Blog: http://taradaramadeit.com

My signature color(s): Anything vibrant!  I love color and it's certainly reflected in my work.

3 things in my handbag right now: Wallet {made by me}, my iPhone, sunglasses

The superpower I would love to have: The power to control my boys when they're at their height of rambunctiousness {is that a word?}

I get inspired by: Magazines and other artisans

What I’m reading: I'm reading multiple books ... Wordpress for Dummies, The Martha Rules, and I always refer to my handy The Handmade Marketplace

 
If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? British Columbia, Canada {that's where I'm from}

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? My boys will be in school full time, so I see myself pouring all of me in to my business during their school hours.  I will maintain my integrity to always be there for them and not let my business get in the way of time with them {they're only young once and I don't want to have any regrets!}.  I see my business in full bloom in 5 years ... or whatever God has planned for me.

Favorite Reality TV Show: American Idol, of course!

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Mascara ... eyes always seem to pop just a little bit more with it on

What's your favorite item you've ever made? My son's quilt.  It was made of his receiving blanket from the hospital, fabric from my mom and my mother in law.  He will always have a part of us with him with this quilt and we will keep him warm while he sleeps.

~

Thanks Tara! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 
 

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Inside Scoop : Kristine Bessell

It's time again for the Inside Scoop! Get to know Kristine Bessell of Cherry Tree Soaps a little better by reading her responses to my unexpected, but fun, questions.

~some photos Kristine wanted to share~

Shop: www.cherrytreesoaps.com

FB: www.cherrytreesoaps.blogspot.com

Blog: www.facebook.com/CherryTreeSoaps

Twitter: @CherryTreeSoaps

My signature color(s): My signature website colors, as well as the colors in my logo, are a dark cherry pink and spring green.

3 things in my handbag right now: My Cherry Tree Soaps Pumpkin Pie Lip Balm (of course, since I am a lip balm addict), my Kindle, and a spare pair of underwear (not for me - LOL! - for my newly potty-trained son).

The superpower I would love to have: I would love to be able to fly!

I get inspired by: Seeing other women, just like me, take a passion, a hobby, a desire to learn and to create...and turn it into a successful business. I am just in awe of the amazing things other women artisans are capable of doing with their talents and creative minds. 

What I’m reading: Crazy Love by Francis Chan

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? I've always wanted to live in Hawaii. 

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? I would love to have my own little shop within the next 5 years!

Favorite Reality TV Show: I don't really watch much reality TV, but I recently caught a few episodes of Guiliana & Bill and really like it (they're such a cute couple!)

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Well, I don't wear makeup...but you will never see me without my lip balm! I can't stand the feeling of dry, cracked lips and so I have lip balms stashed in every drawer of my house and keep several in all my purses. Some people panic when they leave their phone at home - I panic when I leave home without my lip balm (did I mention I was a lip balm addict? LOL!).

What's your favorite item you've ever made? Oooh, that's a tough one because I have so much fun making my products and whenever I come up with something new, that's usually my new favorite thing! I would have to say my favorite item right now is my new Dipped Apple Soap. It just looks so real, smells incredible, and the process of crafting each apple is just so much fun.

~

Thanks Kristine! 

I feel like we know you just a little better now! :)

~xo  

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Inside Scoop : Shannon of Sweet Stella's

So, I'm a total peeping tom and wanted to know some off the wall details about the artisans I admire (I already know the normal stuff from reading their profiles on their websites) so I've come up with a plan to get some insider details -- a "get to really know you" feature blog post interview!

Read on to find out fun facts about some amazing artisans!

~Some of Shannon's Favorite Photos~

Shops: www.sweetstellas.com, www.sweetstellas.etsy.com 
Blog: www.sweetstellas.blogspot.com 
FB: www.facebook.com/SweetStellas

My signature color(s): Cream, white, navy, grey. I love the neutrals, and throw in some stripes...I'm there!

3 things in my handbag right now: You mean diaper bag right?  Blackberry, lip gloss, diapers

The superpower I would love to have: Making time slow down...too much to do, and with being a working-at-home-mom, there's never enough time!

I get inspired by: my son, Owen. He's at such a go-go-go lively stage and he gets amazed by the funniest things...like stirring a spatula in an empty bowl! how can you not be inspired by those simple, amazing things? 

What I’m reading: 1300 Reasons to Smile

If you could live anywhere you wanted (money's no object), where would it be? definitely out in the country, with lots of green space for Owen to run and play...and a small stable for the horses 

Where do you see yourself/business in 5 years? Definitely more fulltime than it is now, with product in a variety of different boutique shops, with orders to fill up every business day! 

Favorite Reality TV Show: Hands down is Survivor! I was so excited when I got the notification that Jeff Probst posed with my stationary at the Emmy's gifting suite!

If you were forced to only have 1 make-up item, what would it be and why? Mineral powder foundation. It jsut makes everything look fresh, clean and beautiful

What's your favorite item you've ever made? My son's first ornament was the first ornament that I painted, just before I opened my shop. Throughout the year, it hangs on the pinboard in my studio as a constant reminder as to why I do what I do. 

~

Thanks Shannon! 

I feel like I know you just a little better now! :)

~xo 

Stephanie Williams Rocks!

This post is dedicated to Stephi of Clover Stone Designs 

and the amazing job she did on my new blog design!

 This is her jewelry site, but she does amazing web and blog design also!

My blog now perfectly matches my website (how did you do that???), AWEjewelry, and is exactly what I ordered, well, except for the MANY improvements and suggestions she had on my ideas. :)

Some of the menu items still need to be buffed out, but I'll get to that soon enough. For now I'm just so happy to have it done, it's been on my mind for quite awhile I just didn't have time to try to figure it out myself. I've been wanting to make it more professional and to really dedicate some time to putting some quality posts about jewelry design and care, tips and trivia, fashion in general, and to go into more detail on things like my different shows and the ups and downs of the press I've gotten, etc. --whew, looks like I have a lot to write about, lol.

Anyway, please follow me, I'll really try to keep things interesting --and updated-- and would love any comments, likes, & shares you can offer. :)

So, here's to Stephi! I wish I had a glass of wine to toast with (actually I just wish I had a glass of wine, lol)

~xoxo
deb.

Hey! I was featured in the Etsy Top 10!

I was excited to see yesterday that my hammered copper earrings were featured as an Etsy Top 10 by Timothy Adams! How cool is that!

These are the earrings featured: