Archive for the ‘Get to Know Interviews’ Category
August 4, 2008
One of our newest sponsors has taken a moment to share some info about herself with us…
Meet Suzanne Jordan of Trendy Shoppes:
Name: Suzanne Jordan
Business Name: Trendy Shoppes
Where are you located?
Frisco, TX
How did you come up with your business name?
Pretty easily actually since we feature shops that are trendy ☺
Where/How did this all begin?
I found the wonderful world of handmade through a web design client. And of course, I just fell in love with the handmade artist community. I wanted to create a place where these talented individuals could feature their items.
Who or what inspires you?
Life, my beautiful boys, my awesome husband and my fantastic friends.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
All businesses have their ups and downs. Always keep your chin up and move forward!
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
That is hard as I love to purchase indie handmade items. I have to say my most useful was a small pouch purse that I carry all of the time when I don’t want to carry my large handbag.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
A variety of music – I like all sorts from LeAnne Rimes to Mika to Chris Daughtry.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
I love the home design shows on HGTV!
What was the last movie you watched?
It’s the summer so I take the kids to the $1 movies every Wednesday. Last Wednesday was Shrek the Third.
What’s your favorite food?
Indian…I love chicken curry!
What’s your favorite candy?
Chocolate…certified chocoholic here.
Coffee or Tea?
Tea during the day and desert coffee at night
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
I don’t shop at stores much but I love to go into the neat little trendy stores that have a collection of items.
Any pets?
We have a beautiful German Shepherd (Shadow) and a sweet kitty (Sadie). Of course my boys also have several fish and 3 turtles.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
I LOVE Hawaii. It is so beautiful and tranquil.
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
Too funny…it would have to be Super Mommy.
Favorite Holiday?
Oh without a doubt – Christmas!
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
I guess it isn’t a secret but I would like to be successful enough to have my husband working at home with me.
Favorite piece of clothing?
I have a new SimplyVera / Vera Wang top that I just love!
We’re already half way through 2008! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
I take my days one at a time. My kids keep me so busy along with my businesses and volunteer work. I just have to remember to enjoy every day that I’m blessed with!
Thanks, Suzanne. Oh, another Hawaii reference. Missing that place so much! Enjoy some of the wonderful items from the shop…
You Make Me Happy Print: $18.00; Unique Earth Body Gift Set: $30.00;
 
Sky Blue Hot Mama Earrings: $10.00; Fun Tree Everyday Hand Printed Note Cards: $10.00/set of 8:
 
Bill the Gnome Light Switch Cover: $10.00; Grey Flower Motif Tote: $22.00:
 
July 24, 2008
It’s time to learn more about one of our sponsors…
Meet Deborah Stauder of Whispering Willow:
Name: Deborah Stauder
Business Name: Whispering Willow
Where are you located?
Easthampton, MA
What is it that you design and create?
I make custom photo booth picture frames. I make standard 4×6 and 5×7 frames as well but my photo booth frames are my biggest seller, hands down.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
I love browsing through the glass color choices. No two sheets of glass are ever alike. Even a color that I use frequently can look especially beautiful and different depending on how that particular piece was rolled.
Where/How did this all begin?
I have been doing stained glass for 11 years, making everything from large window panels to jewelry boxes. About 7 years ago, I wanted to make a friend something unique for her birthday. We both love photo booths and every time she came to visit, we would climb into one and take several photos. I designed a frame to fit one of our best shots and she loved it. That particular design, the “marquee”, is still my best seller. I started selling a ton of them at craft shows and then decided to create a website to sell online.
Who or what inspires you?
Anything absurd and ridiculous appeals to me. My two daughters, 13 and 9, have very quirky senses of humor and we are constantly laughing. (usually inappropriately!)
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Participate in some local craft shows and see what appeals to people. You might surprise yourself. My husband was skeptical of my photo booth frame idea at first, thinking they would not really appeal to the average person and yet they were and are my biggest seller.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
I love the beautiful bags at Moop and plan on getting the Market Bag. I also collect portrait style paintings from The Invisible Fountain artist Luke Cavagnac.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Turbonegro, Gallows, Every Time I Die, Hatebreed…
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Dexter, Chelsea Lately, haunted places/ghost type shows.
What was the last movie you watched?
30 Days of Night. So Stupid!
What’s your favorite food?
Potatoes in any form! Guacamole, beet salad, chicken on the grill.
What’s your favorite candy?
I’m really into nonpareils lately.
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee.
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
I love antique stores, flea markets and used bookstores.
Any pets?
Three cats, Maggie, Punchi and George and a big shedding, yellow dog named Maizy.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
I have never been to Europe so that is my goal. I am sure that the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre will be amazing but sadly, after hearing about the Jack the Ripper tour in London, I am strangely attracted to England!
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
Not sure of a name but it would definitely involve some sort of invisible car equipped with a massive cowcatcher to push irritating drivers out of my way. Road Rage Woman, maybe??
Any celebrity crushes?
Hank Von Helvete, Keith Buckley, Frank Carter. I have a thing for singers. Jason Stratham isn’t so bad either.
Favorite Holiday?
Valentine’s Day.
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
Dr. Marten oxblood 8-hole boot.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
I would love to know how to play guitar. It would be so cool to play lead guitar in a kick-ass band and tour around the country.
Favorite piece of clothing?
Any of my pajamas.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
Italian or French would be nice. I took French in high school but to no avail.
We’re already half way into 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
I would like to learn to relax more. I want to get more organized and maybe take part in some indie craft fairs.
Thank you so much, Deborah! I have to admit that I share some of the same likes/favorites/wishes as you! Check out some goods from her shop (all Photobooth Picture Frames range from $38.00 - $125.00 depending on size/strip size)…
Green Marquee; Pink Heart:
 
Black Skull and Crossbones; Blue Stars:
 
Red Marquee; Pink and Green Dragonfly:
 
July 8, 2008
Beautiful pottery designers and Mixed Plate sponsors for you to get to know…
Meet Tyson and Jessica Geib of Lollipop Pottery:
Name: Tyson & Jessica Geib
Business Name: Lollipop Pottery
Where are you located?
Perrysburg, Ohio
What is it that you design and create?
Tyson: We make hand-thrown, hand-painted, functional porcelain pottery.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Jessica: I like putting the decals on the pottery because that is the point when the whole design comes together.
Tyson: For some reason I still really like centering clay on the wheel. After doing it tens of thousands of times you would think it would be boring by now. It’s not.
How did you come up with your business name?
Jessica: A t-shirt, a two year old, and a love of alliteration and candy.
Tyson: Plus it’s super-fun to type. Try it!
Where/How did this all begin?
Jessica: We lost our jobs, we had to do something!
Tyson: We were both fired on the same day from a local pottery studio by a nut case of a boss. It seemed like the natural thing to do, start our own studio.
Who or what inspires you?
Tyson: I am inspired by coffee.
Jessica: I am inspired by my goofball husband who makes me coffee every morning.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Jessica: Know your market and try to reach them as much as you can.
Tyson: Learn everything you possibly can about css and reverse engineering shopping cart programs.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
Tyson: My brother’s girlfriend made us the cutest little family of plush owls for Christmas last year.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Tyson: Jon Spencer, Tom Waits, Mr. Airplane Man, Fatboy Slim…
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Jessica: House, Stargate Atlantis, My Friend Rabbit, Jacob Two Two.
Tyson: I am a Mythbusters and Good Eats addict but we don’t have cable. DS9 rocks!
What was the last movie you watched?
Jessica: I am Legend.
What’s your favorite food?
Jessica: Sushi.
Tyson: I would have to second that.
What’s your favorite candy?
Jessica: Tangy Taffy.
Tyson: Gummi Bears for sure.
Coffee or Tea?
Tyson: Coffee and Tea!
Jessica: Coffee if I had to choose between the two.
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Jessica: Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor.
Tyson: The gun section at Bass Pro Shop.
Any pets?
Jessica: Yes, a cat, Valentino.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
Tyson: I have always wanted to go to Antarctica. I can’t explain why other than I think the trip would probably be better than the destination.
Jessica: I would like to see the English countryside.
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
Tyson: I would be Insomnio and I would never have to sleep or be tired. Think of the things you could do!
Any celebrity crushes?
Jessica: Colin Firth!
Tyson: Jodie Foster but every time I see her in an interview I am disappointed. It’s maddening. Colin Firth is pretty good looking too.
Favorite Holiday?
Jessica: The 4th of July!
Tyson: The 3rd of July!
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
Tyson: The right shoe. And I would have red laces.
Jessica: A sneaker.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
Jessica: I would like to be an international spy.
Tyson: Honestly, a cat burglar. Not so much for the loot, just the challenge of it. I like to plan things.
Favorite piece of clothing?
Tyson: I like a really nice pair of merino wool socks in the winter.
Jessica: My mushroom sweater.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
Jessica: Ich spreche nur ein bischen Deutsch. I would like to be able to speak English with an authentic British accent.
Tyson: Just a bit of Spanish from high school. Japanese would be fun.
We’re half way into 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
Tyson: Make and sell as much pottery as we can… and have fun doing it!
I know that everyone wishes you well and would love to help you sell as much pottery as possible!
Red Caged LolliBird Mug: $25.00; Orange LolliSkull Bowl: $30.00:
 
Blue Medallion Bowl: $30.00; Karate Sack Tumbler: $15.00:
 
Yellow Planetarium Mug: $25.00; Monster Magnet: $6.00:
 
Use coupon code “mixed plate” for 15% off your order. Offer expires July 31, 2008.
June 24, 2008
I love these moments where we can find out more about our sponsors. Plus, there are two gals we’re about to get to know…
Meet Joleen Rumsey and Rachel Six of Flutter:
Name: Joleen Rumsey and Rachel Six
Business Name: Flutter
Where are you located?
Grand Rapids, MI
What is it that you design and create?
Women’s knit tops, jackets and dresses.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Joleen: I really enjoy picking out fabrics. I love to mix and match different prints together. I really enjoy the pull between not knowing if something matches or clashes so good to matches.
Rachel: Brainstorming
How did you come up with your business name?
Joleen: We wanted to find one word that would describe all that we do and how we feel and what our end product is. The word Flutter is perfect. It is fun, flirty, playful, eccentric, eclectic, pretty, colorful. . . . .
Rachel: Joleen came up with our name and we just went with it.
Where/How did this all begin?
Joleen: Rachel and I worked at a fabric store together. We have similar taste and style and thought it would be fun to start making things together. One thing led to another and now we are designing and drafting patterns and making beautiful clothing and selling internationally!
Rachel: We have both been sewing since we were little girls. We finally collaborated 2 years ago in my sewing room and that was the birth of Flutter LLC.
Who or what inspires you?
Joleen: Life and friends and family and music and flowers.
Rachel: Classic Movies,Vintage Patterns, and Audrey Hepburn.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Joleen: Have fun making things!
Rachel: Don’t be Shy.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
Joleen: Earrings!!!
Rachel: Sparta Soap - we absolutely love the quality and bath time allure of this product, available on etsy.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Joleen: Bo Diddly
Rachel: My Morning Jacket and Essex Green
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Joleen: Battle Star Galactica
Rachel: The Bob Newhart Show. Carol Kester is so spunky.
What was the last movie you watched?
Joleen: Eagle vs Shark
Rachel: Vanity Fair
What’s your favorite food?
Joleen: Raspberries
Rachel: French Onion Soup
What’s your favorite candy?
Joleen: Chocolate
Rachel: Dark Chocolate
Coffee or Tea?
Joleen: Both
Rachel: Both - Black Coffee or Chai Tea
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Joleen: Target
Rachel: Antique Stores
Any pets?
Joleen: House plants are the most ideal pets for me!
Rachel: One itty bitty adorable Boston Terrier named Pearl.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
Joleen: India, I have been twice and it always blows my mind with its beauty and horror.
Rachel: Favorite Place to Visit is Falling Water, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home in Pennsylvania. I’d love to visit the Greek Islands.
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
Joleen: I don’t think I would want to be a super hero. It is too fun and plenty of excitement just trying to be me.
Any celebrity crushes?
Joleen: Jermaine Clement
Favorite Holiday?
Joleen: Birthdays
Rachel: Christmas
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
Joleen: Platform sneaker mary jane style
Rachel: A kitten heel, you can be sassy and comfortable.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
Joleen: Fly
Favorite piece of clothing?
Joleen: My sea horse knee socks! They are so beautiful with lime green and white candy stripes and turquoise sea horses going up each side.
Rachel: My vintage green lawn dress.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
Joleen: German, my mother is from Germany and growing up we used it quite often. I didn’t make much sense to the other kids in school sometimes.
Rachel: A little, if College French counts.
We’re half way into 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
Joleen: To make lots of clothes!
Thanks to Joleen and Rachel for participating in our interview. We can’t wait to see what new designs you’ll create!
Cess: $64.99; Cinnamon Girl: $64.99:
 
Lolly: $120.00; Gretchen: $64.99:
 
Stylist Jacket: $69.99; Deeter Dot: $54.99:
 
June 17, 2008
Let’s take a moment out of our crazy day to stop and learn more about one of our great sponsors…
Meet Shannon Lynn Jernigan of ShaNickers Wall Decals and More:
Name: Shannon Lynn Jernigan
Business Name: ShaNickers Wall Decals and More
Where are you located?
Fort Lauderdale, FL
What is it that you design and create?
I am the creator of a new dramatic line of wall decals. I also make unique artwork and home accessories.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
I love creating new designs that no one has ever seen before and I love creating things from the most ordinary inspirations…
How did you come up with your business name?
ShaNickers= Shannon + Stickers
Where/How did this all begin?
I have always been an entrepreneur at heart. In addition, I am an arTEEST and creative person at the core. So, I created something for my own décor one day that I could not find anywhere else, and then decided to start selling it!!
Who or what inspires you?
Unusual objects AND everyday things inspire me.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Don’t just look at the obvious. Look at your surroundings, and you will get inspired.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
I love items made with felt, knitted material, and basically anything with a unique texture.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Believe it or not, I don’t have a music player OR an iPod!! I am a very non-technology person myself, except for the internet…
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Don’t laugh but I am obsessed with most reality shows. I love the bachelor, dancing with the stars, American idol, hell’s kitchen, etc. My non-reality shows of choice are nip-tuck, dexter, king of queens, lipstick jungle? Weird combo.
What was the last movie you watched?
It was a dvd. The fourth angel.
What’s your favorite food? I love ice cream..
What’s your favorite candy?
Remember boston baked beans?? Also dark chocolate.
Coffee or Tea?
More coffee than tea, but I love both.
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Old time pottery, Pearl Arts and Crafts, Michael’s Arts and Crafts
Any pets?
I have 4 cats and 2 dogs (yorkies). We are one big happy family..
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
I would like to visit Italy one day.
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
“Woman of the Worldâ€. I would be able to make all the starving people full, all the homeless people have homes, all of the terrorism be peace, etc,etc.
Any celebrity crushes?
Probably my two favorite celebrity crushes of all time: 1. Brad Pitt (cliché) 2. Matthew McConahay - spelling?
Favorite Holiday?
Christmas.
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
A peep toe wedge. It could be payless or a brand name.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
An advertising agent, an actress
Favorite piece of clothing?
I love sundresses in general. Flowy light sundresses.
We’re half way into 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
To bring my designs to as many people in the world that I can and to open my own hip, unique home décor shop! =D
Thank you for sharing, Shannon! Your shop is full of amazing goodness…
Bye Bye Birdie: $37.99; Running: $37.00:
  
American Graffiti Peace: $64.99; Hangin Out: $42.00:
  
Wild: $45.00; New England: $51.00:
  
ps - there’s free shipping throughout the shop, so check it out!Â
June 10, 2008
Super sponsor time!
Meet Paola Zakimi of Holli:
Name: Paola Zakimi
Business Name: holli
Where are you located?
I live in a small town in Argentina.
What is it that you design and create?
I am a plastic artist. I make illustrations and dolls.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
When I start to make an idea concrete it is satisfactory.
How did you come up with your business name?
My name in Etsy is bacause of a character I made, which is a sweet and daring puppy.
Where/How did this all begin?
This began some time ago, but it became concrete some months ago. Having your own business and being your boss can be satisfying and exhausting.
Who or what inspires you?
The things I live everyday, wishes and dreams are part of my drawings.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Constancy and perseverance. Make a drawing or do a little work every day. It does not matter if you dedicate one or ten hours, the important thing is to create.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
My favourite is a mobile which I got it in an Exchange about mviles. The last thing I purchased are prints from Nele-Art (DAWANDA) and vintage clothes form lovedbeforeafter (Etsy).
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
sparklehorse
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Desperate Housewives.
What was the last movie you watched?
A movie made by the magnificent Jan Svankmajer, a remake of “Alice in wonderlandâ€, which is called “ALICEâ€, It`s great! I don’t know if it is easy to find it, maybe on Amazon?
What’s your favorite food?
Carbonada. It is a traditional Argentinian food.
What’s your favorite candy?
Chocolate with almonds and orange.
Coffee or Tea?
Actually “Mateâ€, which is a traditional drink in Argentina that is made with a herb called “yerbamateâ€. Always with sugar!.
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Craft supplies or Ironmonger’s.
Any pets?
Cooper, it is a border collie gorgeous and sweet.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
My place in the world is here, in my house. I am surrounded by mountains and nature. Taking care of the people I love and my plants make me happy.
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
My name would be Roberta and my superpower would be teletransporting.
Any celebrity crushes?
It is not a celebrity exactly, it is a character called Totoro, from the movie “Totoro, my neighbourâ€.
Favorite Holiday?
Christmas, I love the presents! Giving and getting them obviously!
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
If I were a shoe I would be a leather boot for climbing mountains!
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
Secretly I wish that the calmness which surrounds me never end!
Favorite piece of clothing?
A vintage green coat, that my mother gave me as a present a lot of years ago.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
I speak English and Italian better than I write them. I would like to learn to write English and German. In some days I will start my language studies to finish them.
We’re now half way into 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
I would like to establish my business, that people know my illustrations and go on with the entusiasm and happiness that making what I like gives me.
Thanks, Paola! Here are some current pieces from her shop…
Summer Its Here Print: $24.00; Mr Plumm and Sofi Print: $24.00:
  
Hug Print: $24.00; Learning Print: $24.00:
  
The Shoe’s Tree Print: $24.00; Sofi is a Little Lady Doll: $170.00:
  
May 26, 2008
Hey, it’s another sponsor and this time from Hawaii! Woohoo!
Meet Janice Avellana of Hazelnut Cottage:
Name: Janice Avellana
Business Name: Hazelnut Cottage
Where are you located?
Honolulu, Hawaii
What is it that you design and create?
I design a line of handstamped and vintage inspired wedding jewelry and I create a mess wherever I go!
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Hmmm…I really enjoy reading; that is what usually inspires me somehow. So, coming up with an initial design or concept is fun for me…I get to think my quiet thoughts and ruminate. Oh, and I also enjoy composing the pieces; so often what I concept out in my head or on paper turns into something quite different when I actually start assembling the pieces together. Oh! And I love to shop for new components!
How did you come up with your business name?
Well, my married surname, “Avellana†is Spanish. In Spanish, “Corylus Avellana†is the scientific name of the common filbert or hazelnut plant…hence, the “Hazelnut†in Hazelnut Cottage. The “Cottage†is the dream image I carry around inside of my head—my “one-day-oceanfront-cottageâ€.
Where/How did this all begin?
After a decade (really!) of soul-searching, career changing, degree getting, I was just home from the hospital after giving birth to my second child when the desperation of having to go back to work struck me. I spent the next few months with my newborn baby asleep in his moses basket under my computer desk, while I searched for a way to work from home. Lo and behold, I stumbled across Etsy and a few fabulous blogs written by people who called themselves an “indie artistâ€. It was then that I knew I had finally found my calling! Will I always, always be creating this line of jewelry? Probably not…the artist angst continually stirs me towards new passions that I must experience now! But I do believe, that I will be an indie artist in some form or other, forevermore!
Who or what inspires you?
Reading inspires me…sometimes it’s those strange books I read that few other people seem to have heard or care about…sometimes it’s bedtime stories as I read to my little ones. And my babies, my relationship with God and the ocean all inspire me, make me hungry to work with my hands somehow.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Start! Just pick something and start! That was the most difficult part for me. And then, be honest with yourself and be sure to choose something you enjoy doing, since you will probably be putting in long hours. And allow yourself to try a bunch of things until you find “ITâ€. And then, don’t give up!
I find it also helps to build a network of support for yourself. You know, surround yourself with other indies or at least, compassionate people who will support you in your creative life and not roll their eyeballs and think “unemployed†when you blather on and on about what you do! I am still working on this for myself.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
I have not yet made my favorite indie purchase! Right now, I am drooling over a custom portrait of my children by Etsy Indie Artist Joseph Blake. One day…oh, one day!
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Viola by Michael Tolcher.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Super Why; a PBS Kids show about reading. I don’t have time for much else!
What was the last movie you watched?
I am Legend.
What’s your favorite food?
Café Sistina’s Pollo Gorgonzola. That, and spicy ahi sushi, which I could eat everyday. Oh, and chocolate pudding with tons of whipped cream.
What’s your favorite candy?
Reeses Peanut Butter Cups.
Coffee or Tea?
Really, really cold iced tea, the flavored kind, like mango or passion fruit iced tea! Yum!
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Barnes and Nobles. Takashimaya Times Square and Tokyu Hands in Tokyo, Japan.
Any pets?
Yup, one very peeful cat, Sarai.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
Japan is our home away from home, but I would love to travel the world! All of Europe, Canada, Nova Scotia…sigh…and on, and on…
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
I am so without the ability to be silly…genetic flaw!
Favorite Holiday?
Christmas. Everything about it!!!
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
A $1.59 rubber slipper from Longs Drugs. I am a low maintenance, I want to be at the beach kind of girl.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
I sometimes dream of working in a vacuum sealed, air conditioned room in the back of a museum restoring artifacts for exhibition (every mom out there with screaming kids will understand the “vacuum sealed room†thing!)…or running a brick and mortar store with my bestest friends!
Favorite piece of clothing?
…can’t think of one piece…does this mean I need to go shopping or lose weight? Perhaps both!
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
Fluent in pidgin (Hawaii’s local dialect!)
We’re already into 2008! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the rest of the year?
Instead of resolutions, our church has this tradition of choosing a word for the year…my word is “playâ€. So, I want to focus on playing! It’s like therapy for me since I tend towards being too serious for my own good, type-a workaholic…
Business wise, I am in flux. There are so many things I want to pursue, I am in need of some quiet time to sit and plan out my specific goals for this year. Maintain and refine my jewelry line, create an organized workspace, increase my wholesale accounts, and file my taxes!!!
Thanks so much, Jan! Pidgin, eh? Here are some beautiful pieces from the shop…
Bonheur Necklace: $50.00; Nest Necklace with Pearls: $60.00:
  
Love Story Earrings: $74.00; Storm Necklace: $64.00:
  
Yearning for the Sea Necklace: $78.00; Vintage Romance Necklace: $78.00:
  
May 7, 2008
Time out! Take a moment to learn more about our sponsor, Asian iCandy Store…
Meet JQ of Asian iCandy Store:
Name: JQ
Business Name: Asian iCandy Store
Where are you located?
Maryland
What is it that you design and create?
I work with independent designers to sell their Asian-inspired products in my online boutique, and also write design blog and newspaper columns in Chinese. So except creating graphic and web design pieces, I don’t have time producing any other design currently. But I hope to have a line of Asian iCandy original in the next few years created by myself.
How did you come up with your business name?
I named my favorite packaging design project in school as “icandyâ€. It’s a cute cosmetics line.
How did this all begin?
I helped Rip Studio selling Asian-inspired clothing and thought it would be nice to have a store providing all kinds of well designed Asian flavor products and focusing on promoting independent designers. So I decided to open an online boutique.
Who or what inspires you?
My Asian culture background and many talented designers I am working with.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
I love the sushi pillow made by Cindy and Mel.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Ugly Betty and waiting for the movie of Sex and City coming out.
What was the last movie you watched?
Becoming Jane
What’s your favorite food?
Sushi and Thai
What’s your favorite candy?
Shanghai White Rabbit Creamy Candies (my all time favorite since childhood)
Coffee or Tea?
Green Tea
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Trader Joe’s and the World Market(Costplus). I love the variety of international goods they offer.
Any pets?
No, but I would love to have fishes like nemo.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
I always want to visit France! During the last Christmas time, I lost my wedding band and one of my French customers found it in her package! So my wedding band had this French adventure before I do!
Favorite Holiday?
Easter
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
I thought I would open a tea room. I worked in a coffee shop: The Prolific Oven in Palo Alto when I was in school. It’s a cute little shop serving coffee and delicious desserts. Since then, I dream to open a place like that but serving tea. ☺
Favorite piece of clothing?
Several pieces from Rip Studio. The design is so unique and original.
Do you speak any other languages?
Chinese and a bit Japanese in my past life
We’re already in 2008! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the rest of the year?
Discover more Asian culture lovers and designers!
Thank you so much, JQ! Can’t wait to see what you discover next.
Hedgehog Denim Backpack by Rip Studio: $60.00; Under the Tree Print by a.t.Whim: $15.00:
  
Mood Bottle Openers by Poketo: starting at $14.00; Color Patterned Black Pocket Dress by Rip Studio: $48.00:
  
Chinese Red Lotus Scrunch Boots by Han Wu: $48.00; Peacock Feather Earrings by Peacock: $40.00:
  
April 28, 2008
Meet a wonderfully colorful sponsor of ours…
Meet Betsi Goutal of Zlanarama:
Name: Betsi Goutal
Business Name: Zlanarama
Where are you located?
Waltham, MA - a suburb of Boston
What is it that you design and create?
My tagline sums it up pretty well, actually – “Colorful treasures for your inner child… and your inner rockstar.†To elaborate on that, I make jewelry that’s fun to wear, that makes you happy, that makes you feel like a rockstar or like a kid again. Or in the case of some of my more Jem & the Holograms inspired stuff, like a kid pretending to be a rockstar!
What is your favorite part of the design process?
I’m torn between the sourcing of supplies and the ‘aha!’ moment. The ‘aha!’ moment is the sudden flash of inspiration where the elements I’ve been noodling around with come together and it all just clicks. But oftentimes the ‘aha!’ moment comes when I’m scouting out new supplies, so in a way it’s that part that’s my favorite. Poking around a warehouse full of vintage beads, exploring a forest of fabric bolts in NY’s garment district, or practicing my well-honed web searching skills and then suddenly I spot something and know EXACTLY the right thing to do with it. That’s the best part; the joy of finding treasure and the joy of creating with it all in the same glorious moment.
How did you come up with your business name?
Back in the mid-nineties I was the weird kid in my high school because I spent my afternoons talking with my friends on this strange thing called “the internet.†I went by the name Zlana and over time it came to mean more to me than just a handle. It embodied my love of color, my passion for creating, and my love of life. Zlana became more a name for my muse than a name for me. When I needed a name to sell jewelry under I decided to add the “-rama†as a way to define zlanarama as what happens when I’m moved by my muse.
Who or what inspires you?
I’m inspired by so many things. It’s hard to pin it down to any one thing of course, but there are certain trends in what sort of things inspire me. Certain eras appeal to me such as the frills of the Victorians, the mod patterns of the 1960s, and the neons of the 1980s. I also draw inspiration from the fashion of certain niche subcultures; I love the heavily-accessorized, brightly-colored, playfully-childlike looks of kandi kids and decora-chan. And where would I be without my childhood influence of heroes like Lady Lovely Locks and Jem & the Holograms?
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Be brave, be strong, be persistent. It is incredibly tough and incredibly overwhelming to start a business, especially one in which you’re selling something you put your passion into. “There should be a single Art Exchange in the world, to which the artist would simply send his works and in return be given as much as he needs. As it is, one has to be half a merchant on top of everything else, and how badly one goes about it.†Beethoven said this! And it still rings true today. You have to believe in yourself and not take things too personally. Be bold. Have the confidence to try, and keep trying.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
It’s a bit different from my own style, but I love the necklace I bought from Jennifer Blasko of Jlynn Designs at the South End Open Market last summer. I really admire people who can do things I can’t do, and her freeform wire wrapping is some of the best I’ve ever seen.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Pushing Daisies! I love the twisted and wacky sense of humor, the eccentric characters, and the strange love triangle. And where each episode involves solving a mystery it’s a little like Edward Gorey and Tim Burton joining forces to remake Scooby Doo.
What was the last movie you watched?
Happy Accidents – a great indie flick that goes for a rare genre combo: sci-fi chick flick. It’s a few years old, but you can find it on DVD on Amazon – you can find ANYTHING on Amazon!
What’s your favorite food?
The crispy sesame chicken at Shanghai Tokyo in Natick, MA. Seriously, this stuff is insanely good. I moved from Natick to Waltham over a year ago and I still make a point of eating there every chance I get.
What’s your favorite candy?
Nerds, and not just because I am one – ha! They’re bright and colorful and oh-so-sugary with a bit of sour too – yummy!
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee! About a year ago I got turned on to McNulty’s in NYC, and I just adore it. I never thought I’d be such a coffee snob as to mail order my coffee, but their hazelnut is soooo good.
Any pets?
I have two cats; Moose and Piper. (Bet you thought I was going to say Squirrel!) Moose is a cranky old lady calico, named for the moose-stache patches of color on her upper lip. Piper is a tiny bundle of kitten energy, named for her tendency to follow people around or her squeaky little meow, depending on when you ask.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
This is so hokey, but honestly one of my very favorite places to visit is Disney World – especially Epcot. I guess it’s that whole “in touch with my inner child†thing but I love it. I never went as a kid, but my boyfriend and I have gone a couple times in the past few years and I just love it. The sense of wonder it instills in me, the amazing displays of light and color on some of the rides blow my mind. It’s A Small World is my happy place.
It’s 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
Following my own advice to be brave, strong, and persistent! I am determined to get my name out there and my jewelry in front of new people. I have a somewhat niche aesthetic and it can be tricky sometimes to reach the right market.
In terms of designs, I have big plans for my shiny new serger and hope to introduce sewn accessory items like armwarmers, headbands, and sash belts in the coming months. I have a great cuddly turquoise zebra print that I’m just itching to use!
Thanks so much, Betsi. Gosh, I totally remember Jem & the Holograms!
Lime Green Boombox Necklace: $20.00; Teddy Bear Earrings: $6.00:
  
Chain of Love Charm Bracelet: $12.00; Rainbow Strawberries Necklace: $16.00:
  
Black Star Earrings: $10.00; Punk Charm Bracelet: $20.00:
  
Enjoy 20% off your next order. Enter coupon code “MIXEDPLATE” at checkout. Offer good through May 31, 2008.
April 15, 2008
Let’s take a moment to learn a little about the designer behind one of our sponsors.
Meet Crescent Maille:
Business Name: Crescent Maille (cMaille for short)
Where are you located?
Northern California
What is it that you design and create?
I make chain maille jewelry, especially bracelets, in both traditional weaves and original designs. I specialize in working with very small rings to craft delicate and exquisite jewelry. I’m also creating a series of my own designs based on lace.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
It’s exciting when the circles swirling in my head coalesce and form a new design. But I like most the weaving itself, being immersed in the pattern and repetition. It’s a form of meditation.
How did you come up with your business name?
I came up with my internet name first: cMaille. It’s short and memorable, and evokes chain maille. As for choosing the right word for the “c,†my favorite weave at the time was the Half Persian 4-in-1, which looks like a line of crescent moons. So the “Crescent†just sort of fell into place.
Where/How did this all begin?
I never thought I’d be interested in making jewelry, but after years of drawing and painting, I wanted a “tidy†artistic outlet. I’d been pretty fixated on drawing and painting circles. Last summer I saw a couple examples of chain maille and was intrigued: circles! I bought a beginning-weave kit and once I started on my first bracelet there was no going back. I find it a low-maintenance pastime of quiet solitude; something I can do while talking or watching television, or just sitting. It’s like being a chronic knitter, only with metal.
Who or what inspires you?
My Significant Other is My Muse.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
- You must love your craft — everything else follows; do something you love, and something that you would do anyway, regardless of sales.
- Communicate well with your customers, since as a seller your job is to make them happy.
- Keep meticulous records from the start, so tax-time is easy.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
I’ve found a wonderful shop on Etsy called TeaNoir (http://TeaNoir.etsy.com) that makes truly inspired blends from all-natural botanicals. They created a custom green tea for me based on my favorite ingredients, and I’m hooked.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Elliot Smith, Gorillaz, Fiona Apple, Franz Ferdinand, The White Stripes, Firewater, Cake, Malajube, Radiohead, Wilco.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
The Simpsons, The McLaughlin Group, and The Dog Whisperer.
What was the last movie you watched?
Gone Baby Gone
Coffee or Tea?
A lot of both.
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
A grocery store in Tokyo.
Any pets?
Two fish. Red fish, blue fish.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
Paris is my favorite city so far.
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
I wouldn’t want to be a superhero, but I’d like to be able to fly.
Favorite Holiday?
Halloween.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
I’ve studied French, Spanish, German, Russian and Arabic. I’ve forgotten almost everything but some French. I am trying to teach myself Spanish now.
It’s 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
In 2008 I would like to see my sales increase. As I have more customers (and repeat customers) that are happy with their purchases, I hope both that they will return, and that all of the positive feedback I am getting will encourage others to give my shop a try. I’d like to start selling a larger number of my more complex pieces, like bracelets and woven necklaces, because these are where the real joy comes in for me as a craftsperson. I make every piece to order, and all bracelets are custom made to the length the buyer specifies. Therefore, each sale means another chance to make something. Sales help keep me in supplies, and supplies keep me weaving and designing. I’d make chain maille no matter what; but selling definitely helps me create.
Thanks so much! Here is a little selection from the shop:
Graduated Byzantine Necklace: $280.00; Zen Lace Bracelet: $90.00:
  
Academy Lace Earrings: $43.00; Mobius Charm Necklace: $38.00:
  
European 4-in-1 Weave Bracelet Cuff: $165.00; Octopus Lace Earrings: $55.00:
  
Receive 10% off any purchase. Type “Mixed10” in the message to seller field and you’ll receive the 10% refund via PayPal after your purchase. Offer good through May 15, 2008.
April 10, 2008
Lindsay is definitely one of my favorite gals in the world. She is someone I speak of often because she helps make my online shops and sites look so great. She is also a sponsor that I really would love for you to get to know.
Meet Lindsay Landis of Pattern & Paw and Purr Design:
Name: Lindsay Landis
Business Name: Pattern & Paw and Purr Design
Where are you located?
Nashville, TN
What is it that you design and create?
Cat and dog collars, leashes, and accessories, plus matching key fobs for people too.
What is your favorite part of the design process?
Ribbon! 
Ok, so I have a little bit of an obsession. I love ribbons and I love seeing the beautiful patterns and designs become something else. I’m a graphic designer by trade - and so I also love creating things - like postcards and banners and fun graphics for the website.
How did you come up with your business name?
It actually recently changed. I had been known as Lindsay Designs for 3 years. We recently started a graphic/web design company (dubbed Purr Design - because we love cats!) as well, and I felt that having two Design/Designs business names was way too confusing. So as of January 1st, we changed the name to Pattern and Paw. I felt that it was an elegant name, catchy, and that described the product without directly saying ‘pet collars’. The patterns of the collars are one of the key things that makes them so unique, so being able to bring this into the name of the business was ideal!
Where/How did this all begin?
Short story - it all began almost 4 years ago with a ribbon belt and an ebay account. Needless to say, I grew out of that pretty quick! I started doing pet collars the following year, and have since abandoned the short-lived fad of the ribbon belts. I love making things for pets. I feel they are often ignored when it comes to fashionable duds, cats especially (if you’ve checked out the collar selection at your local pet-mega store, you’ll know what I mean!). My fiance, Taylor, recently joined on as a partner in the business, and now manages the shipping and billing departments (hehe). It’s such a great opportunity for us to spend time together, and work from home (our commute is the greatest!), we’re loving every minute of it.
Who or what inspires you?
Colors and patterns inspire me. Seeing combinations together than you wouldn’t normally expect. Kitty inspires me with her cuteness. Seeing other designers in action inspires me. I guess life in general! It’s all so inspiring.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
Do what you love. Because if you start doing something just because it sells, but don’t truly enjoy it, it’s going to be much harder to develop a successful business.
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
Well, I have some truly lovely necklaces by you, my lady (onafriday.net)! I wear them more than anything else. I also have a fetish for handmade soap, and have received some lovely soaps in exchange for some label design work from valhallasoap.com.
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Whatever Taylor gives me. He’s the music man, I just borrow it. I’ve got a few favorites right now, such as Josh Ritter, the Traveling Wilburys, the Felice Brothers, Grace Potter & the Nocturnals, and Jackie Greene.
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Lost for one… is my all time favorite. I’m also a big fan of Grey’s Anatomy, the Colbert Report, and Good Eats on the Food Network.
What was the last movie you watched?
License to Wed - we had a netflix of it the other night. Silly, as Robin Williams usually is, but cute.
What’s your favorite food?
Cupcakes. No question there. I’m a big baker. It’s how I deal with stress. Whereas some people (like Taylor…) turn to obsessive behaviors like cleaning or just plain panic when they get stressed - my stress, on the other hand, turns into cookies and cupcakes and cinnamon rolls. Not a bad deal!
What’s your favorite candy?
I love all candy, though I’ve never been one to turn down a Reese’s!
Coffee or Tea?
Neither. I’ve never been a huge tea drinker, and too much caffeine gives me the shakes. I love it, but I can’t drink it.
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Anthropologie - though I’d stop being happy because I can’t afford to buy everything there! Or Whole Foods… makes me salivate… but again, so expensive it’s depressing!!
Any pets?
One kitty, Kalypso, who is spoiled rotten and knows it. I post lots of silly photos of her on the Pattern & Paw blog.
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
I love visiting my grandma in New York and Florida, and my parents out in California. I’ve always wanted to check out North Carolina - it seems like a great place. I hate flying, so while I’d love to visit Europe and the rest of the world, I’m scared sh*tless about spending that much time on a plane!
If you could be a superhero, what would your name be and what would be your superpowers?
Super Cupcake Woman! My power would be to produce delicious cupcakes instantly. hehe. Or something.
Any celebrity crushes?
I’ve never been one for celebrity crushes.
Favorite Holiday?
Hanukah, maybe… I love my potato pancakes!
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
A comfy ballet flat or a flip flop. Cute and casual…. and short. hehe.
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
I’m pretty happy as I am! Though I do wish I was a few inches taller (just a few!).
Favorite piece of clothing?
My comfy jeans. I’ve got two pairs and wear them just about every day.
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
I took Spanish in high school, but probably couldn’t speak a proper sentence now. Whoops!
It’s 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
Build the businesses. We’re hoping to start saving as much as we can to buy a cool urban loft downtown. Dreaming, yes, but if we do well enough with the businesses it might not be so far off!
Thank you so much for sharing, Lindsay. Even I learned a few new things about you! Ha, ha!
Big Dog Collars (Mod Dots Teal, Mango Micro Dots, Prep Hearts): $17.50 - $19.50; Cat Collars (Blueberry Argyle, Candy Mod, Jazz Dots): $11.00 - $13.00:
  
Dash in Turquoise Tropic Dots Dog Collar: $18.50; Kalypso in Fiesta Cat Collar: $12.00:
  
Toy Dog Collars (Safari Natural, Pacific Argyle, Strawberry Taffy): $11.00 - $13.00; Kalypso in Bias Cyan Cat Collar: $12.00:
  
Enjoy 15% off your next purchase with coupon code “MIXEDPLATE“. Offer good through May 31, 2008.Â
March 24, 2008
Time out - Learn a little more about the wonderful Kristen Berge…
Meet Kristen Berge of Coquito Designs:
Name: Kristen Berge
Business Name: Coquito Designs
Where are you located?
In Yonkers, New York!
What is it that you design and create?
I design and create handmade jewelry!
What is your favorite part of the design process?
I love it all actually, from the buying of the beads to the sketching the designs to the actual making and finishing. Admittedly I probably like the shopping for beads part the most…tho I really enjoy sketching too even if I do usually do it while I’m in class at night and I should be paying attention. For some reason that’s the time I feel most like sketching???
How did you come up with your business name?
When I was a little girl I LOVED frogs…this is something I still carry with me to this day! I don’t know what it is about them, they are just such cool little hoppers…so when I was looking for a business name a friend of the family suggested that I call the business Coquito, because she said that in Spanish it means “little frogâ€. My mother is Spanish from Spain…so it pays homage to her side of the family and part of my heritage.
Where/How did this all begin?
Well, it’s a long story…my mother and I started the business as a hobby way back in 1998. We went to a few bead shows and became hopelessly addicted to beads. Then came staying up till all hours of the night creating pieces together and laughing till we cried. Sadly, I lost my mother suddenly in 2003 at age 25. It was very hard for me to make anything for a long time, having lost such a huge part of my life. When I finally started making jewelry again, I found I had lost my direction, and it’s only been recently that I have started to find my identity as a designer again. Making jewelry has helped me grieve, and also it’s helped me to grow. I feel I am in a much better place with my work now, and I feel like it’s a tribute to my mom each time I finish a new design!
The Coquito Designs Story under bio & press on the site explains it all the long winded way.
Who or what inspires you?
All of nature for the most part inspires me. Colors and shapes and forms in our world…and also women inspire me. I love how multifaceted we are and how many hats we wear. We can be strong and sexy or vulnerable and weak, we are mothers, daughters and friends…and what we wear and how we wear it makes a statement about how we feel on a given day.
What advice would you give other independent artists who are just starting out?
I would have to say…budget, budget, budget! And remember as an art form this should be something you love, if you don’t LOVE doing it…then don’t!
What is your favorite indie purchase or trade?
Hmm…I have so many…being an Etsy addict, I have pretty much purchased the gamut…everything from vegetarian twinkies (that are AMAZING) to handbags, beads, paintings, amigurumi, headbands…etc…my favorites were probably the two appliance covers that Saltygal on Etsy made custom for me (http:://www. Saltygal.etsy.com). She is amazing, and if you ask nice and she has time she can sometimes take on larger custom orders like those! I really wanted to cover my spice rack…cause lets face it, who likes cleaning all those little dusty bottles…and then I hated looking at my toaster so I had her make one for that too!!! They’re my favorite things in my kitchen!!
What’s on your iPod/music player right now?
Hmmm…I’m a bit all over the place on there! There’s some Feist, Lily Allen, Ella Fitzgerald, Fort Minor, Black Eyed Peas, Christina Aguilera, Jamie Cullen, Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae, John Mayer, Joe Cuba Sextette, Plain White T’s, KT Tunstall….etc!!!
What t.v. shows are you currently hooked on?
Too many really, but my favorites are Medium, and probably Prison Break when it’s on. I am missing The Riches with Eddie Izzard right now…and also Big bang Theory that hasn’t been on due to the writer’s strike that I REALLY HOPE comes back…I love me some geeks!!!
What was the last movie you watched?
Knocked Up….it was pretty funny!
What’s your favorite food?
Sushi!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Alaska rolls, NY Rolls, Spicy Salmon…mmmm
What’s your favorite candy?
Rollos…don’t know why…can’t be around them…too dangerous!
Coffee or Tea?
Coffee almost every morning, Camomile tea with honey when I’m sick!
What store could you walk around in for hours and be happy?
Wow…Probably any one of the bead showrooms in NYC that I have visited…I could literally spend HOURS in them…other than that…probably any local craft or art supply store!
Any pets?
Of course! Two little kitty cuties…Oscar and Felix our cats!
Favorite place to visit or place you’d like to visit?
The hubby and I would love to go lots of places but we are thinking about Italy and Ireland in our far off distant future…someday! Since we’re both part Italian and part Irish we thought maybe we should visit the places our ancestors come from! Also I am an Egyptian History geek…so of course I’d love to go there!
Any celebrity crushes?
Of course! I have loved Johnny Depp for awhile now…I think it’s because he’s so dark and brooding. I like Colin Farrell for a similar reason. >8)
Favorite Holiday?
CHRISTMAS! I get to buy/make stuff for other people and then spend hours wrapping up all pretty so they can tear it apart! But seriously, there is nothing that makes me happier than finding the perfect gift and then watching the person you love open it!
If you were a shoe, what shoe would you be?
I would be a little flat athletic style maryjane like all those Roxy shoes etc…probably cause that’s all I wear!!!
What do you secretly wish you could do/be?
I secretly wish I could be an indie shop owner…I would love nothing more that to fill my shop with beautiful handmade lovelies and help support other handmade artists! My blog will have to do for now!
Favorite piece of clothing?
Hmmm…probably my pink chenille bathrobe. If I could go to work in it, I totally would!
Do you speak any other languages? If not, would you like to learn one?
I speak some Spanish, mainly because my mother and grandmother used to use it in front of me so I wouldn’t understand…unfortunately for them I picked it up! I would love to learn an Asian language, they fascinate me, and I love listening to people speak.
It’s 2008 already! Oh yes, so soon. What are your plans for the year?
This year, I plan to do more for others, get my collective act together and continue my boxing class at the gym…really…that’s just so I can order more vegetarian twinkies…seriously you have to look up Vegan Honey on Etsy…her twinkies are to DIE FOR! 
Oh man…Vegan Twinkies!?! Hmmm, something to think about! Thanks so much, Kristen.
Faith Necklace: $88.00; Geena Earrings: $48.00:
  
Hera Earrings: $38.00; Paige Blue Necklace: $68.00:
  
Jael Necklace: $115.00; Irene Earrings: $48.00:
  
Receive 15% off your next order with coupon code “Mixed15“.
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