Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Sunday, August 29, 2010
EtsyMom Curator Award

We are so excited to introduce the EtsyMom Curator Award - an award that will honor the dedication of one EtsyMom each month! The recipient will be the EtsyMom who helps to promote the team as a whole by curating the most EtsyMom team treasuries in a one month period! We will also be acknowledging each and every team treasury as well as the EtsyMom who curates it on the EtsyMom Curator Award Blog!
If you have not made a treasury before, and need help creating your first treasury, please let us know. We will be happy to help.
The big holiday shopping season is here, and we want to promote EtsyMom as a team to get our name out there and encourage others to buy handmade products from hard working, talented and dedicated moms. We think that a great way to start off is by encouraging all EtsyMoms to curate EtsyMom team treasuries. We have quite a few members - what a huge impact it would have on promoting EtsyMom! Many people check the treasuries often, and I know that some shop directly from them.
This is how the EMCA will work:
Each EtsyMom who curates an EtsyMom TEAM treasury will submit a link to their treasury link here in this thread: EMCA - EtsyMom Curator Award
Every single team treasury will get a screenshot (picture) posted to the EtsyMom Curator Award Blog as well as a thank you with a link directly to the curator’s shop.
The EtsyMom who curates the most treasuries in a one month period will be the recipient of the EMCA, which is comprised of three parts: the winner’s shop’s EtsyMini will be posted on our team blog for one month as a thank you for helping to support the team, there will be a Marvelous Mom feature of them and they will also get to choose a prize from one of that month’s sponsors.
The rules:
The sponsors for the month CANNOT be winners for that month
The same person cannot win two awards in a row.
In order for your treasury to count, you must use only EtsyMom items, and mention "EtsyMom" either in your treasury title or description so it’s easily identified as an EtsyMom treasury.
The recipient of the award will be announced each month in the EtsyMom newsletter, and a special mention will go out to each EtsyMom who manages to curate at least 4 treasuries in that one month period. Between now and the holidays, selections will be made from weekly treasuries for inclusion in the holiday gift guides.
The EMCA challenge will be active from the 15th until the 14th of the following month. This means that the first challenge starts NOW! The first recipient of the EMCA will be announced on the 14th, and their EtsyMini will be posted on the EtsyMom blog for one month.
Each month, we will have 3 new sponsors for the EMCA recipient of the month to choose from. You can also sign up to be a sponsor in the forum. An EtsyMom will be in charge of this list, and she will be choosing 3 different sponsors each month.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Back to School Giveaway #2 - Handmade Whimzy
Shop name: Handmade Whimzy
http://handmadewhimzy.etsy.com/
What’s your giveaway item?
A set of 3 mini ribbon bookmarks!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/39484811/spring-zing-trio-of-mini-ribbon
Here is how to enter to win this great product:
Mandatory Entry - Visit Handmade Whimzy (http://handmadewhimzy.etsy.com/) and select one favorite item, leave 1 comment with your email address (so I can contact you if you win).
5 Entries - Purchase any item from Handmade Whimzy, leave 5 comments
3 Entries - Blog about this giveaway, leave 3 comments and the link to your blog post
1 Entry - Follow Handmade Whimzy's blog (http://handmadewhimzy.blogspot.com/ ) , leave 1 comment with you user ID or name
1 Entry - "Like" Handmade Whimzy's Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Tyler-TX/Handmade-Whimzy/107926789250020), leave 1 comment with your user ID or name
1 Entry - Follow Etysmom Blog (current follower is also eligible), leave 1 comment with you user ID or name
1 Entry - "Like" Etsymom Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/EtsyMom-Team/275723105716?ref=ts), leave 1 comment with your user ID or name
1 Entry - Follow Etsymom on twitter (www.twitter.com/etsymomteam) and tweet about this giveaway (remember to add @etsymomteam on your tweet) , leave 1 comment each day you tweeted with the link to your tweet
You can also copy this tweet "Win back to school bookmarks @Etsymomteam http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"
***This Giveaway is open to US and Canada***
There are so many different ways to win. This giveaway will end on Thursday Sept 2nd at 11:59pm PST. Each entry is assigned a # and the winning # will be drawn by random.org and announced on this blog as well as emailed.
*****************************************************
Etsymoms, if you are interested to be the next Giveaway, please visit our forum for more information (http://www.etsymom.socialgo.com/forum/topic/117). Thank you and have fun!
WINNER!
The winner of this giveaway is Comment #4
Shelby said...
I blogged here:
http://livingabeautifullyblessedlife.blogspot.com/2010/08/eclectic-prep-has-pretty-sweet-giveaway.html
x3
August 27, 2010 10:29 AM
Winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
Marvelous Mom Monday - Lindsey - Twirl Away
EtsyMoms face the challenges of taking care of family, home and business head on! As team members we share many common goals and tricks of the trade, but each Mom has seemingly developed her own formula for success. Read on to find out more about our Marvelous Mom Lindsey, the multitalented talented owner and designer of Twirl Away,specializing in lovely skirts for little girls!

Hmmm... the idea of a pedicure makes me cringe, and I have little to no pink in my wardrobe! Though having two little girls in the house means that I paint their toenails often and their closets are overflowing with pink!

See answer above! :) Besides the normal mommy stuff, I love to paint and knit. Also coffee with my friends, being silly with my girls, dinner with my husband, and strolling art fairs in the summer!
What is the address for your Etsy shop?
http://www.twirlaway.etsy.com/.
What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
Right now, it's all lovely skirts for little girls! But stay tuned... I have many ideas for the future! And check back SOON for holiday/Christmas skirts!
Where do you create?
I have a corner of the basement set up as my studio right now! With an area for kids to create also, my daughters and I are often together in this space, creating side by side!Where do you find your inspiration? Of course having two daughters is inspiration enough to make lots of cute skirts and clothes! As far as design, I really just get to create what is going on in my head and then change and develop it from there. Also, I'm very inspired by the amazing fabric designers whose fabric I use often in my skirts.
How did you get started in your line of business?
How do you promote your business?
On Etsy... We got my mom a really beautiful bracelet from www.noelcharm.etsy.com with grand kids names on it!
Just on Etsy for now, but a Facebook page will probably be coming soon!
Be sure to visit Lindsey's Etsy shop and leave a comment here letting her know how much you enjoy her work!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Back to School Giveaway #1 - Twisted Ribbons
Etsy shop: Twisted Ribbons
www.etsy.com/shop/twistedribbonsbows
Blog: http://twistedribbonsbows.blogspot.com/
I love the routine and the schedule of fall after a lazy summer.
What’s your giveaway item?
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53716676/back-to-school-barrette
Mandatory Entry - Visit Twisted Ribbons (www.etsy.com/shop/twistedribbonsbows) and select one favorite item, leave 1 comment with your email address (so I can contact you if you win).
5 Entries - Purchase any item from Twisted Ribbons, leave 5 comments
3 Entries - Blog about this giveaway, leave 3 comments and the link to your blog post
1 Entry - Follow Twisted Ribbons' blog (http://twistedribbonsbows.blogspot.com/) , leave 1 comment with you user ID or name
1 Entry - "Like" Twisted Ribbons' Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/TwistedRibbons), leave 1 comment with your user ID or name
1 Entry - Follow Etysmom Blog (current follower is also eligible), leave 1 comment with you user ID or name
1 Entry - "Like" Etsymom Facebook Page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/EtsyMom-Team/275723105716?ref=ts), leave 1 comment with your user ID or name
1 Entry - Follow Etsymom on twitter (www.twitter.com/etsymomteam) and tweet about this giveaway (remember to add @etsymomteam on your tweet) , leave 1 comment each day you tweeted with the link to your tweet
You can also copy this tweet "Win back to school hairbows @Etsymomteam http://etsymom.blogspot.com/"
***This Giveaway is open to US and Canada***
There are so many different ways to win. This giveaway will end on Thursday Aug 26th at 11:59pm PST. Each entry is assigned a # and the winning # will be drawn by random.org and announced on this blog as well as emailed.
*****************************************************
Etsymoms, if you are interested to be the next Giveaway, please visit our forum for more information (http://www.etsymom.socialgo.com/forum/topic/117). Thank you and have fun!
The winning comment generated by random.org is #32. Congratulations!
Shairbearg said...
I love this: http://www.etsy.com/listing/48189161/chocolate-brown-and-baby-pink-organza
theknitwitbyshair@hotmail.com
August 26, 2010 10:16 PM
Winner will be notified via email and have 48 hours to respond. If no response is received, a new winner will be selected.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Monday, August 16, 2010
Marvelous Mom Monday - Anna - AnnaVirginia Fashioneering
It takes a woman dedicated to making her dreams and goals come true to work full-time (inside or outside the home) and also get an independently-owned business up and running! Let's find out how this week's Marvelous Mom, Anna, of AnnaVirginia Fashioneering (http://shopannavirginia.etsy.com/) puts her amazing creativity to use!Tell us about yourself?
I’m Anna; a mom, wife, and designer. I love to create, whether it’s by making a clothing item, by helping flowers to grow in my garden, or even by making my home feel more comfortable. I’ve even expanded my creating-abilities to making my own websites! I also love to take photos, dress my baby in cute clothes, and go for walks.
What makes you unique as a woman?
I like to be different, but not in a way that other people are different. I try to find clothing that is flattering but not revealing. I make it a point to know trends and yet I don’t follow what I don’t like.What do you love about Kids?
Kids are so much fun! I loved babysitting when I was younger because children are so eye-opening. We can learn many great principles from the learning experiences and attitudes of children. When you step back and see life with more understanding because of those children, you really love them!
What are you currently doing besides your creative craft?
I’m a stay-at-home-mom who takes care of my family. My husband has one year left of school and so I’m cheering him on. My baby is almost nine months old and has begun crawling – she really keeps me on the move!

What is the address for your Etsy shop?
http://www.shopannavirginia.etsy.com/
What do you offer in your Etsy shop?

I want to offer items for the entire family. I still need to add some men’s/dad’s items, but so far I’ve got:
Women: skirts, sweaters, hair accessories, and hats
Baby Girl: sweaters, shoes, hats, and hair accessories
Baby Boy: vests, shoes and hats
and Crochet Patterns!Where do you create?
In my home! It’s smoke-free and pet-free!
Where do you find your inspiration?
Depends on what I’m making – for women’s clothing, I usually find features that I like from several high-end items and then I take those elements and add my own style.
For my baby items, I’m inspired by my own sweet daughter and my nephew.
How did you get started in your line of business?
It’s all because I see things at the store that I like, but I don’t want to pay their price, or, I see something and think: I can make this! I don’t often buy things that I can make on my own! I’ve got a bachelor degree in clothing design, so I’ve got training and experience that opens so many possibilities.
How do you promote your business?
I’m in several Etsy groups, I’ve got a page on Facebook and I’ve been trying to master SEO for my items so that people can find them! I’ve also done a few giveaways, but I’m not sure those have helped much.

What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?
Networking through social groups, family and other sellers is a huge and inexpensive help for business. There are a lot of free or affordable resources to help spread the word about your great items!
What advice would you give someone just starting out?
Buy something from someone on Etsy before you set up your shop. This helps you know what you like about their service, packaging, photographing, etc. If you’re a buyer, you’ll be a better seller because you’ll know what it’s like to be on the other side. Plus, if it all goes well you can start off a shop with positive ratings! (I think it’s better than having no ratings. Being a good buyer hints at being a good seller!)
What are some of your favorite online shops on and off Etsy?
Time Captured
Lil Princess Bow
Pink Elephant Shop
Stones of Healing
KSL Classifieds
Ravelry
Walker's Bride's Emporium
Amazon
What are your other sites?
http://www.annavirginia.moonfruit.com/
http://www.facebook.com/annavirginia
http://www.ravelry.com/people/anniemontanie
http://www.flickr.com/photos/annavirginia/
Be sure to visit Anna's Etsy shop and leave a comment letting her know how much you enjoy her work!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Gift guide - Fishing

Thanks to HandmadeWhimzy for the subtitle! :D
Chek-out our gift guide treasure >>>
Monday, August 9, 2010
Marvelous Mom Monday - Bridget - Smart sAss Baby
As EtsyMoms we often run busy households, yet we still find time to nurture our creative sides and have a great time doing it! I have been wanting to know more about this fun EtsyMom ever since I first saw her shop name, Smart sAss Baby (http://ccangel331.etsy.com/). If you're looking for apparel with an attitude for your sassy child, then you will love her shop's assorted collection of "Attitude" T's. Meet our Marvelous Mom for the week, Bridget!
in a long, long time. Through this self discovery came my first pet project, "Summer of Self Improvement." I decided to begin a summer of enjoying the little things in life, having fun with my daughter before I send her off to kindergarten *sniff* and my newborn son. We planted a garden, enjoyed crafts, and just being together. I started a blog and am documenting my journey of self discovery.I am learning to be a stay-at-home Mom. I am not good at this domestic thing and idolize anyone who is! I am working on building Smart sAss Baby and also building my sales as a Madison Handbag Consultant so I can continue to afford to stay home and get better at this cooking and cleaning stuff =D.

http://www.ccangel331.etsy.com/
What do you offer in your Etsy shop?
My Attitude Tee's for Kids with Attitude. Remember those non-verbal kids and their faces full of thoughts, I take those thoughts and bring them to life.
Where do you find your inspiration?
How do you promote your business? 
What is one of your most important lessons you've learned since starting your business?
On Etsy - http://www.thesleepingbabe.etsy.com/ - her baby blankets are the softest and most rich looking blankets. My son LOVES his minky and we can't leave the house without it (we have 4 just in case one is in the wash or goddess forbid we lose one).
http://www.zeldascloset.etsy.com/ - the most adorable dolls ever! My daughter has one and after seeing it I had to order 2 more for other people who fell in love with them. She cares about her "babies" and it shows in her work.
Off Etsy - I am addicted to Amazon.
What are your other sites (i.e. Blogger, Wordpress, Facebook, Twitter)?
Be sure to visit Bridget's Etsy shop and leave a comment letting her know how much you enjoy her work!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Fall Is Just Something Grownups Invented
Monday, August 2, 2010
Behind the Scenes - Meet Your EtsyMom Admin
Jodi Doody, of HappyHouseQuilts and creator of the team, always said she wanted the team to be a "soft place to land for moms!" She understood that "life" happens and that members may need time away. At the same time, the team grows daily! With such a large membership, who provides continuity and keeps everything running smoothly? Let's go behind the scenes of the EtsyMom team to meet some of our administrators, the awesome women who support us all!
Name: Alice
Shopname: Lilprincessbow (http://lilprincessbow.etsy.com)
Responsibilities: Welcome Committee Co-HeadWhy I joined Etsymom: I wanted to join a team with a common goal and background. I have met many great Etsy shop owners on EtsyMom who share similar challenges and needed similar support as me. It is a great team to be in.
What I like about selling on Etsy: It is a fun community with many creative people. I love selling and shopping on Etsy.
Name: Stacey
Shopname: Daisy Designs Shop (http://beadedsocks.etsy.com)
Responsibilities: My responsibilities have been setting up the new forum, editing or changing preferences on all forums, fixing background issues on the blog, graphics editor for EtsyMom and membership.Why I joined EtsyMom I joined EtsyMoms to be a part of a group that would give me support and help on improving my shop. A group that would understand being a Mom with kids and a business at home. Moms who celebrate the same achievements and learn to deal with the same struggles.
Name: Missie
Responsibilities: Co-Leader, Newsletter Committee Co-Head, Social Networking Committee Co-HeadWhat I like about selling on Etsy: Everyone is so nice on etsy! They're willing to share selling tips, techniques, suppliers, and gossip. It's like the red hat club almost!
Name: Jennifer
Shopname: lavenderave (http://lavenderave.etsy.com)

Responsibilities: Co-Leader, Etsy Mom Curator Award (EMCA) and Gift Guide Committee
Why I joined Etsymom: I wanted to meet other Moms who were working to build a business, balancing home and family with work - looking for support. It is a fantastic group of women.
What I like about selling on Etsy: Etsy is a great place to find unique and amazing things, so fun to shop. I like selling on Etsy because it's very flexible, great for a busy mom. Also, the customers tend to appreciate the value of handmade items.
Name: Kimberly
Shopname: CinnamonSpice Papercrafts (http://cinnamonspice.etsy.com)
Responsibilities: Special Events Committee Co-HeadWhy I joined Etsymom:
I wanted to be a part of this team because I love that we are all artisan mommies...I instantly felt a bond with the other members. I just knew that being on this team represented a commitment to our work because we're willing to sacrifice time with our families to make our dreams come true!
What I like about selling on Etsy:
I was first attracted to Etsy because of the artisan look and feel of the site. Once I joined, I was amazed at the support available from Etsy staff and sellers. I truly feel like I'm in business for myself but not by myself and no matter what type of issues arise, I know there is an outlet for me to get answers. I also love being able to give back and share my experiences and what I've learned from being a shopowner.
Name: Meg
Shopname: Beachside Treasures (http://beachsidetreasures.etsy.com)

Responsibilities: EMCA Committee
Why I joined Etsymom: I joined EtsyMom because I thought it would be a great way to meet other moms all over the world who have a passion for crafting just like me. It's wonderful to have a network like this to help give each other support and encouragement, especially while trying to juggle a household, family, jobs, and our shops. Nowhere else have I found a group full of such amazing women who know exactly what I'm going thru all the time!
What I like about selling on Etsy: I love that I'm surrounded by other artists and draftees, and that people buying from Etsy appreciate handmade from the heart items rather than just some trinkets bought at some big box store. Plus, how else are you going to meet so many other artisans in one place, all full of unique and creative ideas to help you succeed and willing to share?
Name: Anastasia
Shopname: L'Accent Nou ( http://www.etsy.com/shop/LAccentNou )
Responsibilities: Etsy Mom Curator Award (EMCA) and Gift Guide Committee
Why I joined Etsymom: It is a great opportunity to meet crafty moms all over the world and share our experience.
What I like about selling on Etsy: Etsy is a great place to expose your work, to meet people, to discover anything new everyday. But the best thing Etsy has is the community. This is not only a market place, here you make connections, make friends, have a lot of fun.
Name: Heather
Shopname: All You Need Designs (http://allyouneeddesigns.etsy.com)

Responsibilities: Newsletter Committee Co-Head and Welcome Committee Co-Head
Why I joined Etsymom: I wanted to be part of a group that could understand the challenges we face not only as creators and business owners, but also as mothers. This has been a great group to be a part of - supportive, friendly and fun! I love being part of the team and getting to know everyone. I've found some great shops this way - and I am so happy that we can support each other with advice and sales! I'd rather buy from another Etsymom than just any shop.
What I like about selling on Etsy: It's such a great forum for getting your creativity out there - the people who come to Etsy are looking for unique, handmade items and that's what we all have to offer! It's such a thrill for me that I've been able to share my creativity through Etsy!
Name: Tammy
Shopname: HotLavaClothing (http://HotLavaClothing.etsy.com)
Responsibilities: Welcome Committee Co-Head
Why I joined Etsymom: As a mom of 5 (yes five), joining the Etsymom Team was a “no brainer”. I deeply admire our team & how we help each other learn, navigate Etsy, & the personal camaraderie and support within the team is amazing. The team not only offers support to each other but inspiration :)
What I like about selling on Etsy: I truly enjoy the interaction with customers and being able to add the personal touch. I love custom orders and creating something that the customer has envisioned. Aside from selling, I’ve met some truly wonderful sellers on Etsy.
Name: Shannon
Shopname: I Heart Quotes (http://iheartquotes.etsy.com)

Responsibilities: Welcome Committee Co-Head
Why I joined Etsymom: Being new to the Etsy world, I really wanted to find a team that would offer support, and advice, as well as provide a place to meet other moms who wear many hats throughout the day. Having a dynamic support team is so important for success and networking. I feel like I have already met so many great ladies!
What I like about selling on Etsy: I love selling on Etsy! Every person that I have either sold to or purchased from has been amazing! I love the thought that other people appreciate my handmade items. Being my own boss and having my own shop is truly a dream come true!
Name: Jessa
Shopname: Little Pearl Quilts (http://littlepearlquilts.etsy.com)
Responsibilities: Special Events & Social Networking Co-Head
Why I joined Etsymom: I love having the opportunity to connect with other creative mamas, trying to balance babies and husbands and art and life. It's great having a place to chat, ask a stupid question, rant a little bit, or celebrate - with other girls who really get it.
What I like about selling on Etsy: There's no way that selling in a bricks & mortar store could work with my current "real" life - Etsy is an amazing (and flexible!) marketplace for a busy mama. And I think the worldwide aspect of Etsy is awesome - I love knowing that little ones all over are snuggling with my toys and quilts - it's such a great feeling!
Name: Anna
Shopname: Shop Anna Virginia (http://shopAnnaVirginia.etsy.com)

Responsibilities: Special Events/Social Networking Committee
Why I joined Etsymom: I wanted to network, socialize and find friends across the world who are like me: a mom selling stuff on Etsy
What I like about selling on Etsy: Flexible hours! I love that I can put as much time in it as I can give, and it's really dependent on me. And, if I can only work a few hours a day, my shop is still open 24/7. So nice. :)

















