Coming Back Home

After 2 1/2 years back in the corporate work force, I am coming back home, both figuratively and literally.  It was a hard decision, but one that I made for my family and myself.  I kept telling myself for months, that my kids were to an age where I should feel comfortable working.  I kept thinking about how my husband will be retiring from the military in a year and a half, and me having a stable job would secure us.
Then the tables started turning. I started feeling like, "is this it?", "is this what I want to do for the rest of my life?".  I was so turned around, I wasn't even sure if I was happy at my job.  I wasn't sure if the stress was workload, burnout or what.  And what would burnout mean?  Would it go away?
At the same time, my kids were having issues.  My son, who has high functioning autism, started middle school this year.  It is a hard transition for kids on the spectrum.  Not only do they have to prompt themselves for tasks, but they have to deal with puberty at the same time.  I felt like all I was doing was nagging him.  I felt like every sitter we hired, wasn't enough.....not necessarily the fault of the nanny.  They were being judged against what I thought I would do if it were me home. My son needed help.  Help keeping a schedule, help prompting him to have better hygiene, organizing his school work, ensuring he was getting enough sleep (he is an insomniac).
And for my daughter, there are social issues.  We have moved so many times in the last 5 years, she doesn't have that core set of friends that many 5th graders do.  She doesn't have a best friend. And my sweet, sassy, artsy little girl, has my 'heart on sleeve' demeanor. The gossip, girl fights, and cattiness of 5th grade hits her hard.  I wanted to be the one to dry her tears, give her advice, share in her day.
By the time I was home from work everyday, not only was I emotionally withdrawn from the exterior I was told to put up at work ("leave your emotions at the door"), I was mentally exhausted.  I was beaten, and had 3 hours per day with my kids to make them a meal, help them with homework, and get them to take showers etc.  As you can imagine, this basically was a cranky mom barking orders.
This was not the mom I wanted to be.  This was not the me i wanted to be.  I wasn't taking care of myself at all.  And my biggest concern was, is this the life I wanted to live?  Not to sound like a hipster, but YOLO!!!
So even with just a year and a half until no guaranteed income, here we go, on a self discovery tour.  I hope to use this blog in the coming year, to tell you what I've learned, share some DIY projects (I love working on my house), maybe some stories on my progress on healing and bettering myself, inside and out.  And closer to the big day, getting into life transition from military to civilian. I hope you join me on the journey!

Say What?!?!?!

This may come as a big surprise to some people.  It is not something I've openly talked to about, because frankly, until I was sure, I felt it would be bad business to talk about.
Many of you who have been loyal fans to LilacAve know the story.  I started LilacAve after I left my career in Fashion Merchandising, to be with my son who was diagnosed with High Functioning Autism.  For a brief 7 months I did return back to my corporate life, only for us to start a whirlwind 2yrs, where we moved to Hawaii (7 months) to Georgia (16 months), and back to Virginia. During that 2yrs I put everything I had into LilacAve.  My ultimate dream was to make the business into my income.
While pursuing this "dream", our family made a lot of sacrifices financially, and we tried to concentrate our lives on doing things, and not material things.  We tried to really concentrate on what we REALLY need versus what we wanted.  It was almost like a recovery from the fast paced, buy everything we need, and don't need world before the economy crashed.
At the beginning of this year, I felt like we really had "made it".  I was earning some pretty big increases over previous years, and as exciting as that was....it was also exhausting. If you saw my blog back in June (My Reality of Owning a Micro Business), you saw that I was starting to question some things about owning my own business as an income.  What about vacation, what about 401k and retirement, what about growth plateaus?  I was starting to worry about the feasibility of maintaining the perks....working in my PJ's, being home for my kids after school, freedom with my schedule, and still growing to the point that I could pay for my kids college and retire one day.
Then summer came.  Summer Business is like a Texas Summer.  Usually it doesn't rain much.....but this year it was a full out DROUGHT!  My business came crashing to a screeching halt.  And not just slow for summer.......even slower (30-50% down from previous summers). It was heart breaking.  It was exhausting.
Back in about mid August, a series of events and random conversations, led me to start applying for jobs in my old career path.  As I kept interviewing and talking about merchandising theory, balancing inventories, and managing financial plans based on sales, I got excited. I remembered the passion I thought was dead.  The idea of co-workers, a steady income and vacation days, started to feel like a great big hug.
This Monday I got a job offer. I was more giddy and stress free than I've been in quite some time. And the more I thought about what this means for LilacAve, the more I thought, maybe it is time to let her go.

Say What?!?!?!?!

Here's the plan. It will NOT be right away.  I have too much made candles, lotion bars, and lip balms to just close up shop.  And at the moment I am at 1899 Etsy sales.  I propose I will stay open until 2000 sales. 
After that, my Etsy shop will close but my facebook business page will live on. I am hoping after a hiatus, I will start to yearn to make candles, and fabulous spa like products again.  I will want to be adventurous and smell new things, make new things.  I'll miss old things (like Blueberry Cobbler and Wood Wicks).  I will start to make things, and post them for sale via my Facebook page. 

I leave this blog post, thanking my customers for your encouragement, your praise, and being my "work" for over 3yrs.  However, I'm not leaving our friendship, it is just going to evolve.

Much Love,
Deb

P.S. To help me get to my goal and to Thank You..... any time between now and the closing use THANKYOU coupon code and save 25%.
**you cannot use 2 coupon codes coinciding**

This vs That session 2, with MCF

We had a great response to the 1st blog post of this versus that.  I wanted to do another one, again with my folks from Military Circle of Friends.
This vs That is to showcase, that you don't always have to go with the best known names to get the best stuff, sometime handmade is just a better value and a better quality, as well as more unique.

Caramel Pecan Bark from Godiva is $25 for 12oz

Chocolate Pecan Pie from Nicole's Handmade Treats 1lb (16oz) for $18

Personally, I think Nicole's looks better.  I would also bet hers is more fresh, and her customer service more personalized.



Gem Flower Hairclip from Gymboree $6

Pink and White Kanzashi Flower Clip from Hold It $7

I don't think this felt clip from Gymboree holds a candle to this well made, and more substantial hair clip from Hold It. Plus the Hold It shop has countless colored and patterned options.

Brooks Brothers Womens Handkerchief (2) $25

Monogramed Handkerchief from Elegant Monograms is $17

If you are going to use a handkerchief for your big day, or if you just love the old time elegance of it....you are not doing it right, if it isn't beautifully monogrammed, and have a delicate lace edge, like this one from Elegant Monograms. She does a fabulous job of offering a wide variety of monograms and embroidery, to get you the exact sentiment and aura you need for this beautiful accessory.

Jennifer Harruff makes me a Dress

I am 33. Yep. And when I was a tween and a teen, the cool places to shop were Contempo and Wet Seal. My mother hated these places. Loud music and higher prices than JCPenney, where we almost always shopped, since my father worked for the company and we got a discount.
I remember vividly once while shopping for school, it was when the baby doll dresses with tees underneath were the BIG thing (Can we say soooo 90210, people).  I begged my mother to go into Wet Seal and there was a sundress I fell in love with for $49.99.  My mother did not want to buy it (yes Mom, I still remember it to this day). 
Why do I mention this????  Well let's think about that, it was likely 20yrs ago.  I'm much larger than I was then (so more material), and I love things much more unique than what I did back then. And ummmm, I just got a STEAL!
My friend, Jennifer Harruff, just made me a custom dress. All for $48.50 SHIPPED (pricing will vary).  I got to pick the fabrics, and she is making it based on my measurements.  It is something made ESPECIALLY for me.....for a mere $48.50.  

As per last nights blog post of this vs that, all I have to say is handmade rocks, and you usually are going to get something better made, with better service (than Wet Seal for sure), and perfect for you! Look at some handmade options, support a small business owner, BEFORE you go out to the mass market.  You'd be surprised at the value, the charm, and the quality craftsmanship and service that people of our generation have forgotten about to get mass market and convenience that we have been taught is the "fun" and "stylish" way to go from commercialism.  

As a sidenote, Jennifer Harruff is also a member of the Military Circle of Friends Team on Facebook. Check us out to see Lilac Ave, Jennifer Harruff, and many more talented artisans.

This vs That, MCF Style!

This vs That is a comparison of goodies you could buy at a chain retail store versus the handmade counterpart.  This edition is doing the comparison up against my Military Circle of Friends (MCF) gang.



Hovering Agate necklace by Anthropologie $38

Amethyst Amulet by Winddancer Designs $39

 Personally I like the necklace by Winddancer Designs better; there is a lot more detail and finishing touches, for practically the same price. Not to mention, I'd rather buy handmade. 

Black and Creme Zebra Pouch from A Stones Throw $10

Pyramid Stud Clutch from The Gap $29.95

The above is a clutch from the Gap.  Not only is the wristlet from A Stones Throw 20 bucks less expensive, but the fabric instead of PU (yuck, is right) makes it washable, for those times when your lipstick cap fall off, or if you have an isue with a pen getting loose.


Echo Newsboy Cap from Nordstrom's $35


White Buckle Newsgirl from Two Seaside Babes $37

Not only is the Two Seaside Babes hat made by a handcrafting artisan, but it is also 100% cotton (the Echo hat is an acrylic/nylon/spandex blend).  And if you ask me the design looks sturdier and more complex than the Echo hat from Nordstrom's.



Where the 'Magic' Happens

Sounds like an episode of 'Cribs', right?!? Well I'm not an aging rock star and this ain't that type of magic!  This is where I turn coconut oils, beeswax, and soy wax, along with many other things to create the fabulous items of LilacAve.
We finally moved back into our house on Lilac Ave back in mid July.  I had set up shop "sorta" in our smallest room, but last night my daughter decided she wanted the smaller cozier room, and I could have the bigger room.  This room will double as a guest room when we have people, so it does have a full sized bed in it....which I think will likely serve as a dog bed for my assistant, Bear. But the rest of the 12' by 14' room is mine.
What actually worked out well, is I tried to use every excess piece of furniture and repurposing it versus buying bookshelves and 'new' things.  As a military family, we move all the time, and it seems in the past we've always needed to buy and sell things to work in whatever new space we have.  This time not only were finances a constraint, but I was tired of being wasteful. So I thought I would share some of the ways this space was repurposed.

• The green folding rack was originally bought as an easy fold and go display for craft shows.  In its off season I used it for its intended use as a plant stand. Here it works great at holding my fragrance oils, microwave and soy wax.  I *would have* likely bought a microwave cart for this.  So using this plant stand instead actually saved me $50-150

• This white bookcase we have used for actually several moves.  It was a black color, but I love it in this white color.  It will be holding all my finished product. Saved me $75-100 (granted this wasn't a repurpose, just a reuse).
• The table is actually my utility table for craft shows.  Underneath it is all my packing materials, and on top will be my actual work space for setting candles, soaps, etc.
• Here is a sewing station.  The white cabinet we inherited from our renters.  They left this over the toilet cabinet in our master bath.  Instead of ditching it to the curb, I thought I could use it for extra storage.  I am thinking during Craft show season, I will have my husband saw off the legs, and I will use it as a table top display.  This saved me $50. Right now it holds my boxes I use for tarts, tealights, and soaps. The folding table was also painted white from black.  I bought it from TJ Maxx about 4 yrs ago, and let me tell you, there is nothing as versatile as a large folding table.  It has been everything from a TV stand, craft table display, computer desk and more.

• Inside the closet I have little closetmaid shelves that were bought for a craft show set up that didn't work so well.  They've also been used for toy bin storage for my kids, and closet organizers.  Right now they are working fantastic as my glass storage.  I sure am glad we lugged these around and even kept them when we were not using them.  They are $15/ea, so these 4 would've costed $60-$80 brand new.

So the good news is, the less money I spend on my office, the more money I can spend bringing new products to you! 
And even though this room was originally supposed to be my daughter's....I'm kind of diggin her 'Cozumel' Teal choice for the walls....I feel so exotic in there!

Has a Fundraiser Ever Smelt so Good!

As some/many of you know, my husband is in the Navy.  And as some of you know, he just found out he is a Chief Selectee.  Chief is a pretty big deal in the Navy.....my husband could tell you the heritage, as that is something he is supposed to know in the next 6 weeks before he gets pinned "Chief".  All I know, is it's a big deal, and in the next 6 weeks he has to do a lot of stuff to prove he is worthy.
One of the things Chief Selectees have to do, is fundraise. Well, unfortunately for my husband he will be out to sea doing, who knows what, for 1/2 of the time period he is supposed to be raising money.  I figured I could come up with an idea, and a means to help him.
So here it is.  I will be doing a candle fundraiser for the month of August.  You can pick any scent you'd like from the below list for your candle.  The candle will be $10, with $5 Shipping (no shipping for locals of course!).  I am so generous that all $10 will go to those selectees towards their fundraising efforts.

This one is scented Oatmeal Honey Almond

The candles are 9oz and ina glass tumbler, with a USN sticker adhered to the side.  After your candle FINALLY burns out (should last 40-50hrs), you can clean out the glass tumbler with hot water, soap and a rag, and you'll have a great little glass piece to do anything you like with. And of course my everlasting love, that you helped not only support my husband, but all the selectees, the US Navy, and America (doesn't that sound patriotic!).

Here is an Etsy Listing for this item. Chief Selectee Fundraiser Candle. You can purchase via Etsy, or from my Facebook page.  If you purchase via Etsy please put your scent choice in the comments.  If you are local, and don't want to pay the $5 shipping, please contact me via my Facebook page or via comment here.

Scent List:
Bayberry
Blueberry Cobbler
Clothesline
Cucumber Mint
Gardenia
Ginger Peach
Green Apple
Lavender
Lavender&Peppermint
Lavender&Vanilla
Lemongrass
Lemongrass&Vanilla
Lemon&Lavender
Mandarin & Coriander
Oatmeal Honey Almond
Pearberry
Peppermint
Peppermint & Vanilla
Pumpkin Souffle
Vanilla Bean
White Peach and Hibiscus

Lessons Learned from Summer 2011

I need to make a mental note to look back at this post, come April/May of 2012.  I know that summer is not yet over.  School starts up here 6 weeks from today.  We have been on summer break for 10 weeks now.  So I think I've experienced enough to reflect on some lessons learned in business, life, and summers as a work at home Mom.

1. Business is not fractionally slower, it is DEAD.  I had mistakenly thought, that summer sales would be 33%, maybe 50% less than my sales tend so far for 2011.  This was NOT the case.  I found it is not a % less.  There seems to be a glass ceiling.  For instance, let's say my average sales in 2010 were $500/mo, and in summer went to $330. My business instincts were preparing for, if average sales were $1500/mo, that they would become $1000/mo.  When in reality....they were still $330 (numbers not exact, just explaining a point). So next year, instead of completely stressing out about it, and instead of having multiple failure sales and promos, just ride the wave...accept it will be slow and just "Let it Be".
2. See above.....so instead, the kids are home, let's have FUN!  At the beginning of summer, I had been freaking out hoping I could get the kids into camps, so I could work and keep the momentum going with the business. I pushed camp. Although my son enjoyed Lego Camp ($205), and my daughter loved Horse Camp ($245), they were both stressful.  The driving back and forth, the jealousy's, the MONEY.  Worse yet was me trying to pay for a Mon, Wed, Fri morning daycamp (Mom's day out type thing).  Sounded good, but at $90/week for just 9hrs, and no sales coming in, it was STRESSFUL.  It ended up costing me more than $90/wk, since the registration was $170 (all numbers are for both kids together, so $45/wk and $85/ea registration).  This daycamp lasted 3 weeks before I realized we couldn't afford it, and the kids were not enjoying it.  So in total we spent $890 to camp-ify summer.  And it could've been spent better. How???
3. DO Buy all the memberships you can get your hands on! We bought a membership to the waterpark at Little Creek.  It was $125 for the 3 of us, but would've been $15 a visit to go.  The kids love it there, and it is a fairly relaxing 2hrs whenever we go. We got a membership to the Virginia Aquarium for $150...this one is great for days we need to stay indoors BUT get out of the house. We haven't gotten the chance to buy a membership for the Virginia Zoo yet, but it is $75 for military families.  Also movies on base at Little Creek are $2/person. So with the $890 spent on camps for a total of 5 weeks, we could have gotten A waterpark, aquarium, zoo, and over 5 trips to the movies for just $500 (not to mention the beach is FREE)!!! We can also enjoy our YMCA membership during summer, kids using the interactive zone while I work out and just a swim in their pool...at $88/mo it is a bit...but even adding that in to the $500, we still come out cheaper than the camps.  Plus YMCA offers a free parents night out for members. And since we don't need to worry about business too much (see #1) then we could just sit back and enjoy. The kids will only be kids once!

At the Virginia Aquarium

YMCA Mt. Trashmore

Little Creek Water Park

Beach on Dam Neck military base

And the winner is........................

#8

 

So who is #8...look at the 8th comment down! It's:
Beth Thompson!!!!

Congrats Beth!

Happy Anniversary!!!!

Our 1st item sold!

Here we are at our 3rd Anniversary for LilacAve.  I like to tell people just starting out, how when I started LilacAve, my dream was to sell an 2 items a week.  I thought that would make me happy. since then, we've grown to be an income for my family, and that has been a huge gift and a reward. The journey has not been without challenges, but it has been quite a ride.  Cheers to continued growth and always raising the bar a little higher.

To celebrate making it this farm we have been celebrating!  Here is the last of the 3 celebrations!!!

GIVEAWAY!!!!!

Entering is super duper simple! Just post on this blog, your 3 favorite things about LilacAve. It could be a product, it could be something about the values of the company, it could be you like my hair....whatever.  Just name the 3 things you like best!  Tomorrow morning a winner will be picked, and they will get a FREE 3 month Scent of the Month membership!!!!

What is the Scent of the Month membership.  The 1st week of every month, you get to sample the scent of the month, by receiving:
(1) .6oz Soy Tart
(2) tea lights
(1) 1oz Body Butter
(1) 1oz Bath Salt

Who, What, Where, When, is the MCF Auction?

Back in Spring of 2008, I was a newbie on Etsy, and my bud Kristin, aka Moose Threads, convinced me to join an Etsy team of Military spouses. This team was so amazing. Not only did they give me business advice, but they were there for me while my husband was deployed.  I will never forget all our chats and fun and support.  We built long lasting friendships.  Some of these friendships so strong, that I have and they have gone out of their way for us to meet in person.  And with everyone I have met, we have talked non-stop for hours. Never had I been involved with a group so diverse in religion, backgrounds, politics etc, that were so respectful, and non-caddy in a group.
Well, as times change, so did that Etsy team.  So did we...as many of us now have sites off Etsy, no longer have shops, etc.  But we still have our friendships.  So recently we created a group on Facebook where we can chat and stay in touch.  This evolved to also include a business page, where we could help promote each other, whether our shops have their own websites, whether we sell predominantly on Facebook, or even if we just have some great stuff to share. 
To kick off this military friends page, we thought why not have an auction. So many of us do similar things on our business pages individually, that we thought having one as a group, and introducing our clientele to our favorite shops, would be fabulous!  I can vouch for every participant.  Not only are they fabulous artisans, but they are also some pretty awesome women!
I invite you to like our fan page.  And please attend the auction, sometime between 8pm and midnight EST tomorrow (Sunday).  Even if you don't bid (although bidding ends at midnight EST), please just come to see this fantastic sampling of items from this group.  You won't be sorry!!!!

MCF 1st EVER Auction
Sunday July 17th
8pm-Midnight EST
Direct Link http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=231464313550995

Some of the fabulous shops participating:
www.Facebook.com/LilacAve
www.Facebook.com/Memoriestoyou
www.Facebook.com/TwoSeasideBabes
www.Facebook.com/DancingBearsTeaHouse
www.Facebook.com/BadCatJewelry
www.Facebook.com/wanderingwhimsies
http://www.facebook.com/ReynaRed

Not Absolute: A Vegan-ish Story Update

Merriam Webster defines Absolute as a : free from imperfection : perfect b : free or relatively free from mixture : pure

I can tell you this, it has been 5 weeks since I decided to try leaning towards vegan. Prior to that, I wasn't even a vegetarian...probably the closest description was somewhat 'clean eating'...i.e tried to eat organic fruits and veggies, and grass fed, no hormone meat, etc. So it was a big change. And I *knew* it was never my expectation to change overnight.
I can claim that I am pretty much a full fledged vegetarian.  I have had meat twice in that 5 week period, and oh boy, it is no longer for me.  Not only was it not enjoyable...but it made my stomach sick.  And what I thought particularly interesting, is I wouldn't wake up hungry.  Why? Probably because my body was still digesting the meat. In my mind, a little gross to think about.
I have been able to get used to coffee with soy milk (if I get soy creamer from Trader Joe's even better).  I have had soy lattes from Starbucks.  I have had vegan frozen yogurt from a local chain called "The Skinny Dip".  I even had a fabulous vegan pizza from "ZPizza".

This being said, I do not claim to be "vegan".  I do order cheese pizzas, I have had milk, when we are out of Soy, and yes, I have been known to sprinkle milk chocolate chips on my vegan ice cream. However, the way I am currently seeing it, is that in 5 weeks, I have been able to NOT eat about 68 servings of meat (would've been 70 except for those 2 meat occasions).  I have also drastically lowered my consumption of dairy, even if it is not completely phased out.
I think there is an expectation from our society, that if you are trying something like this it needs to be all or nothing. I feel like I am just trying to do better when I can, and maybe with time some of the other things will follow suit.  I have to say, living in a more trendy area (Virginia Beach vs Rural Southeast Georgia) has made it alot easier, as restaurants offer choices. And although weight hasn't "melted" off as Kathy Freston says in her book.  I am 1lb down from 5 weeks ago.  This may not sound like much.  But when you consider the 10lb gain in a month I had last time, I tested the vegan waters, I'd say I am doing pretty well. And regardless of weight, I feel like I get to try more adventurous food choices than before (like the Skinny Dip offers 1 Vegan flavor, so the other day I had Peach flavored..because that was the choice...why not). I feel lighter.  My skin seems a bit clearer (although not today....used sunscreen on my face yesterday and so there is an uprising!!).

5 Tips for Opening an Etsy Shop

Want to open an Etsy shop? Here are 5 tips to get you started. Etsians.....I'd love you to comment on any more tips you have!

#1. At least 30 items, but the more the better. I'm currently at 207, but when the bath line comes out, that may double. Think of it like if you walked into a store, would just a few items likely have exactly what you are looking for? What about if there was a whole table? A whole store?
Keep in mind this is not Ebay, where there is a ton of traffic and easy to sell, at cheap prices.
Having listings is MORE than just on an item of interest, get into your shop, and buy something totally different.

#2. List and/or renew regularly. By regularly, I mean daily. So when you are about to open, if you have 10 items to list, you may want to list 5 right away, and then list 1 item a day after that. Again, it puts you to the top of the search and gives a doorway to your shop.

#3. Photos are SUPER important. Remember you are selling a buying experience, not just the item. Etsy tends to like light colored backgrounds.Taking pictures in a place in your home that gets natural light, on a partly coudy day, is what works best for my camera. Some people need it really sunny, others need to actually go outside, some use a light box. With your camera turn the micro on (the flower sign), flash off, and take the photo. Use photo editing software and mess with the contrast and brightness until you feel it looks fresh. It doesn't cost money to use all 5 of the pics in your listing, so use them all if you like (closeups, side view, art photo).
I don't recommend a dark background, white, bright, or colored is best. Think of what you are selling, and the feel of your shop. Set the stage for that "feel".

#4. Have a facebook or twitter page for your business. Invite your friends and ask them to invite their friends. You can use it as a free prmotional tool when you list something new, want to have a sale, or whatever.


#5. When you can, product branding can help (i.e. avatars, logos, banner), you can still sell without it, but it does set the stage for your shop.

What's Beautiful About Military Life

In our military life, we've lived in Georgia (twice), Hawaii (twice), Washington, and Virginia (second time around right now). I have found that there is some good in every place, and some bad (although some moreso than others); And you must concentrate on the good to be happy and survive.
Well, about a month ago, we moved back to Virginia.  For those that don't know, we own our house here, and are currently working on it to make it ready for us to move our stuff in (pics will be in a blog post in the future).
Last night we were over at our house, visiting with the inlaws who are here to help, and to work a little more on the yard, and discuss more work to be done. And last night, the fireflies were out. My son caught one in his hand and we all watched as they would glow and go dark, and glow some more. To me it was magical.

Our neighborhood although in Virginia, reminds me a lot of the house I grew up in, in Rivervale, New Jersey.  There were fireflies there too. A mix of all sorts of houses, big and small, brick and siding, no sidewalks, and tall trees making a canopy over the neighborhood.
As my children were in awe of the fireflies, and enjoyed the summer air (and the mosquitos), it felt like we have been able to give them a piece of my own childhood.
Then in the car on the drive back to the house we are temporarily staying in, the CD played, "Somewhere over the Rainbow" by Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole. The kids were talking about how it reminds them of Hawaii. My daughter talked about how her teacher would play the Ukelele for them, and we could go to the beach every day. We talked about our adventures and memories there.

I realized in that moment how beautiful this life we are giving them is. They get to carry the good parts of our past, have adventures that not everyone gets to have. When they are older and look back, maybe it won't just be the lapses of time without their Dad, or the leaving friends in different places as we move....maybe it'll be of lightning bugs, beaches, ukeleles, walks in the summer night, and love.

Why Buy Handmade?

to see details about this embroidery stitch or learn more about the movie Handmade Nation, click image.

I have been crafting for "business" for almost 3yrs now. I think I am so far entrenched in Handmade, Etsy, and small businesses that I think EVERYONE sees it like I do. Then I have to stop and remind myself, that not everyone knows what Etsy is, not everyone sees the modern version of handmade. So here are my thoughts.

I'm not saying I never shop at Walmart (although it does make my skin crawl) or that I don't love Target and other mass marketers. there is definitely things there that are not available from online handmade artists (Legos); And I know they rely on the dollars of patrons as well, but there is a huge differences.

#1. As a seller, I know this, and from all the sellers I am friends with, I know this....a sale can make our day. If you decided to go to Walmart and buy a purse, or a hat, or a candle...it probably is just a drop in the bucket. In ways it really would make no difference. There are many many sellers on Etsy (and other handmade venues) that when you buy an item in their shop, they jump up and down, they smile, they scream and shout, they tell all their friends "I MADE A SALE". We celebrate when we hit 100 sales, we celebrate at 500, 600, 1000. Every sale is appreciated. When I buy from a fellow handmade, small business entrepreneur, I'm not just getting an awesome, unique, well crafted item...I get the inner satisfaction of knowing that my buy brought happiness to the seller, and made a difference in their life. And I am not the only one...check out why this blogger loves buying handmade...especially LilacAve ;) http://www.differentshadesofgreen.com/2011/06/things-i-love-lilac-ave.html

BTW, this is not just for online handmade businesses.  Shop Local!!!  We want to support them.

#2. Customer Service. I mean really, these days, even in these hard times, I find decent customer service is hard to find. No one wants to thank you (if they do,l it is a not so sincere, monotone, scripted "Thank you, have a nice day"). Small businesses are obsessed with their businesses and making them work. Their thanks is a sincere "THANK YOU for choosing ME!". Usually their appreciation is shown in little touches of great customer service, like courteous replies, apologies when things go wrong, and the motivation to fix it, little gifts, handwritten notes, careful packaging.

20 Questions with BeckyZ Photography

Becky Zeugin is one of my oldest friends. I first met her at an Elementary school playground in 3rd grade. We became BFF's for years; through hair bands, 1st concerts, 1st kisses, 1st loves, 1st broken hearts.

Becky was not a photographer, back in our previous life, but when I saw her recent works, I was jaw droppingly in awe. "My Becky" turned into such an incredible talent. I am so proud of her, and a huge fan of her work. I'm sure you will be too. So here it goes...let's get to know her!

1. Your favorite color: teal

2. Dream Vacation: anywhere tropical

3. Favorite movie: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl

4. Favorite Artist: Kelley Ryden http://kelleyryden.com/blog

5. Best Advice EVER? Do what you love, don’t follow money –my dad

6. Motto: Dare to dream and dream BIG

7. Like Pets? YES! I have two doggies and a cat

8. Lifechanging Event: the birth of my children and my nephews

9. Your Best Trait: Patience (although my children test how strong it is on a daily basis!)

10. Your Flaw: I lack organizational skills – big time!

11. What craft do you wish you could do? Knit – I will teach myself to do it one of these days.

12. Favorite Season: Spring, I love a good Texas thunderstorm!

13. Favorite Holiday: Thanksgiving – I love to eat!

14. Boots, Sneakers, Flip flops, Heels, Mary Jane’s or Barefoot? Fip-flops

15. Favorite Treat: Grande Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino

16. Most recent item added to your Favorites: http://www.etsy.com/listing/65577831/ready-to-ship-chunky-newborn-cap

17. Blog? http://www.beckyzphotography.com/blog

18. Facebook? http://www.facebook.com/BeckyZPhotography

19. Twitter? http://www.Twitter.com/BeckyZPhoto

20. Shop?



Can't help but share some more with you!!!!

20 Questions with Laura Evans Photography

I've long been an admirer of Laura Evans Photography. Her Style is gorgeous and recognizeable. Amazing portraits as well as amazing art prints!

I thought, it would be interesting to see what this Brit, and fellow Military Spouse has to say, in her 20 questions!

1. Your favorite color: green in various shades, right now i'm loving lime green but also a fan of mint green

2. Dream Vacation: vietnam, cambodia, laos & the camera ... but anywhere i can escape, i love being in the south of france, & california is amazing.

3. Favorite movie: top gun ... I am a dork i know

4. Favorite Artist: I don't have one, but at the moment eric church is pretty high up

5. Best Advice EVER? don't cry that it's over ... smile because it happened

6. Motto: love laugh believe

7. Like Pets? i have a husband & 2 kitties i'm a little obsessed with

8. Lifechanging Event: there have been a few but marrying my husband is pretty high ... oh yeah & getting pregnant  Since this originally posted, Laura is now Mama, to a gorgeous baby boy!

9. Your Best Trait: Come on Laura...you can't leave this blank! I'll state the obvious....you are a talented photogapher, and you have a sincere and beautiful spirit!

10. Your Flaw: stubborn, argumentative ... the list is endless

11. What craft do you wish you could do? printing of all kinds

12. Favorite Season: the next one

13. Favorite Holiday: i'm not sure i have one

14. Boots, Sneakers, Flip flops, Heels, Mary Jane’s or Barefoot? flip flops

15. Favorite Treat: a night to myself

16. Most recent item added to your Favorites:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/59801285/olindo-tha-whale-handmade-in-italy

17. Blog? www.lauraevansphotography.blogspot.com

18. Facebook? http://www.facebook.com/pages/Laura-Evans-Photography/81776348168?v=wall

19. Twitter? http://twitter.com/levansphoto

20. Shop? http://www.levansphotography.etsy.com
http://www.oohprettyshiny.etsy.com/

Nothing Died...a Vegan-ish Update

I have to say this journey is teaching me about myself...some things that I have learned; Some wins, losses, realizations.

• I have conquered vegan coffee.  I'm having coffee with soy creamer and Stevia. I think this was more of an aquired taste...not finding the "solution".
• I can do vegetarian pretty easy. Vegan is still a challenge.  But I'm leaning.
• Speaking of leaning....I realized I hadn't been letting myself lean.  I was outright trying to say no "X"...and going from an American diet, to vegan overnight, and that is a bit of a challenge.  I realized I can't let myself be black and white...I need to let myself have the gray areas and that's ok.  My nature tends to see a goal and work to get to that goal fastest.  I forget all I had previously said...that I was just going to be concious, and if I thought I could get by without the dairy, I would, and where I still really wanted it I would...and without guilt.
• Last night, after evaluating the above, and reading in Kathy Freston's book, "Veganist", its ok to take it step by step...and a good first step is just to cut out birds (chicken, turkey, etc).  I thought, I may get a burger while we are out to dinner.  After we got there, I realized I din't want to.  We were at Red Robin, and there, they will substitute the meat in any burger for a Boca Burger or a Veggie Burger.  I ordered my old favorite, a Whisky BBQ Burger, with a Veggie Burger instead of meat. This burger granted is not the healthiest choice on the block. And it has cheese which is what makes my version vegetarian but not vegan.  However, can I tell you....it was delicious, and tasted no different to me than the old favorite.  And Normally, I can taste a veggie burger (I like veggie burgers, but they cannot be mistaken for a burger). P.S. I also had their sweet potato fries, yumm.
• If you recall, as much of an animal lover as I am, this was more about health, and more about what I had been reading meat can do to the human body, and the added saturated fats, etc. Well, what is interesting, last night I was willing to throw that out the window and having a burger. And I didn't....and I felt happy that Nothing died for my meal. So maybe it is a little about that.
• Right now, I am content being a vegetarian. And I am trying not to set too many rules on being vegan.  I am totally down with having a burrito with no sour cream and no cheese (must have guac though).  I am ok with Vegan ice cream. I am ok with Vegan lattes and coffee. I am ok with not snacking on chunks of cheese. I'm ok with making smoothies without yogurt and just soy or rice milk. Not sure I can avoid ranch dressing, cheese pizza, or cheese on my burger yet. But I think I am leaning in just fine, thank you....and trying oh so hard, not to feel guilty for the things I haven't given up yet.
• I would like to say, I have an ax to grind with Kathy. If you remember I said last time I tried vegan I gained weight.  This time I am doing better....but my weight is just maintaining. I would just like to say, although this is about health....not weight loss, it is still so hard for someone who struggles as I do to read over and over and over in a book, how the weight will just melt off without even trying and without counting calories. I find this to be completely untrue. Granted....again, I have not been a perfect vegan.  but given in the last 2 1/2 weeks, I have given up meat, and reduced my dairy intake by more than half...I would think, if her addage is true, something would be lost.

Etsy versus My Own .com

Recently, I had 2 polls on this blog.  One of them pertained to my website www.LilacAve.com. In that poll, about 30% of those answering said they feel more comfortable shopping on Etsy.  I had a hunch this was true. After chatting with a friend of mine, she said maybe I should point out some things, so folks feel more comfortable.

You may wonder why, as fabulous as Etsy is, a shop would want to branch out to their own .com.  Well there are several answers. 

1. Would it surprise you to know, around 9-11% of the sales, at LilacAve go to etsy?  Now don't get me wrong.  I love Etsy and the service they give me is worthwhile, I could never complain about the exposure and traffic they've helped me get....they are why LilacAve is here!  But if I were able to make the same sales through my site, that number would be more like 1-2%.  Granted this is ignorant to paypal or Google checkout fees, which are unavoidable.  I would like to think if there were less fees that money could be reinvested into more products, more research, better promotions, and marketing better.
2. For me, a big reason why I was gung ho, is remember 1000 markets? If not, here is the cliff notes. 1000 Markets was a handmade shopping site, like Etsy, but it was juried.  I think it was a Monday they announced they had sold it, and by Friday the site no longer existed, as it was bought by Bonanza, which is not a handmade site. What is to say one day Etsy is not sold to Ebay?  What if it changes, and drastically affecting my business?  I need to not have all my eggs in one basket. And I don't see Zibbet, Artfire, or any of the zillion others being an advantageous fall back to Etsy. 
3. Control is another biggie.  I know this is true for many of us, starting our own .coms. If you don't know...on Etsy you are limited to 10 categories, and each item can only be in 1 category.  So for instance my "Tart of the Month" listing is under 'Special Listings'...I cannot also put it under 'Tarts'. Or recently I was asked if I could set up my shop by scent.  Not only would I be limited by the 10 categories...but I could not have a Bath Salt under both Categories, 'Bath Salt' and 'Lavender' for instance. Having your own .com can allow you to do these things.  This does not even begin to get into, the control over the look and feel in entirety of your own webpage.

Now here are the things, that I'm thinkin', are why you have the comfort level with Etsy.

1. I think you may feel like Etsy will provide you buyer protection. This is actually not true.  If you have an issue with a seller, Etsy will not step in.  However, if you paid with Paypal...they will! Paypal would also step in if you need protection while buying from a .com and paying with paypal.  So no worries there! 
2. On Etsy you can see the sales number and Feedback. I get this one...I do!  I know I do not have a ticker on my site showing my sales. However, some food for thought may be....websites are not cheap.  I recently spent $200 to get mine set up the way I wanted, and much more if you consider the time I put into it, and the monthly fee.  I wouldn't do this if I wasn't serious about my business. Also websites like Amazon.com, Overstock.com and others don't have sales tickers, yet there is not a physical place to walk into to complain if things go wrong. Small Handmade businesses may not have the mass merchant allure in protection...but I know so many of these sellers, and we are just struggling to get our footing as small businesses.  We want to grow, we want to stand on our own 2 feet one day. And of all the ones I know, we care more about great customer service than these big guys do!  It's personal pride in our work! Not to mention I know a couple folks that actually sell better on their .com than Etsy, so their Etsy numbers are actually deceiving.

Are there other things that hold you back? 
I'm not trying to sway you from buying on Etsy.  I love Etsy, I buy on Etsy all the time. All I'm saying is if you've ever bought from a seller or are a fan on their Facebook page...consider checking out their .com next time around. Take the leap!

Here are some sites of people I know are on Etsy, but also have their own .com:
Lilac Ave
www.LilacAve.com
www.LilacAve.etsy.com
Two Seaside Babes
www.TwoSeasideBabes.com
www.TwoSeasideBabes.etsy.com
DB Designs Jewelry
www.dbdesignsjewelry.com
www.dbdesigned.etsy.com
Geek Details
www.geekdetails.com

20 Questions with Ahoy Graphics

Today's 20 Questions, is with the fabulous Kristen Hodges of Ahoy Graphics. I met Kristen through the Homefront Team, but was so thrilled to meet her in person, and be on the HRAST Team with her (lovingly we referred to it as "Harrassed"...but really the Hampton roads Artisans Street Team).

She is a lovely person....seriously, 'lovely', all inclusively describes her. Her craftsmanship is meticulous and she has a very strong hard working ethic, and just such a sweet and generous person.

When I met her, she had a gorgeous album shop, called Fly Leaf Designs, and then she had created a new venture called Pins and Paper. However, leaving those behind and delving into her passion for logos, marketing, and design, she is now a butterfly, as Ahoy Graphics. She is responsible for my logo and worked with me on my branding. It was a wonderful experience, she was very flexible, and very professional. I highly recommend her! PLUS, she is a fellow Navy wife, so what can you do!

1. Your favorite color:

Pool Blue + Eggplant Purple {so hard to choose just one!}

2. Dream Vacation:

Italy

3. Favorite movie:

Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy

4. Favorite Artist:

Cesar Chevaz {I love Hispanic Art!}

5. Best Advice EVER?

Belief determines your destination, behavior determines your compensation.

6. Motto:

Mean what you say and say what you mean.

7. Like Pets?

LOVE! Parson Russell Terriers in particular

8. Lifechanging Event:

Corey joining the Navy—what a huge change this lifestyle was for us.

9. Your Best Trait:

Organization

10. Your Flaw:

Being a doormat when I become too much of a people pleaser

11. What craft do you wish you could do?

Bookbinding

12. Favorite Season:

Autumn

13. Favorite Holiday:

4th of July—boating, swimming, picnic-ing, and lots of loud music on the Tennessee River with family and friends, can't beat that...

14. Boots, Sneakers, Flip flops, Heels, Mary Jane’s or Barefoot?

Flip Flops

15. Favorite Treat:

Berries dipped in a bowl of sugar!

16. Most recent item added to your Favorites:

Personalized hangers for a baby shower gift

17. Blog?

I write a blog for my shop: Sell More with Design 101. It relates to Design, Branding, Community, and Marketing. www.ahoygraphics.com/category/sell-more-101/

18. Facebook?

Yep! www.facebook.com/ahoygraphics

19. Twitter?

And double yep! www.twitter.com/ahoygraphics

20. Shop?

I have a little shop on Etsy for my design work: www.ahoygraphics.etsy.com/

Some Examples!