Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Featured Diva Interview - with Toni from Toni Designs

*Note From DDIB: Toni's jewelry is oh-so-elegant and absolutely BREATHTAKING!!! Meet the designer behind all of the sea-inspired pieces...

INTRODUCING OUR FEATURED DIVA...
Name: Toni

Etsy Shop title is: Toni Designs

Etsy Shop url:http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5124481

Tell us a little about yourself:

I'm the mother of two sons. Have always been creative. Theatre major... some screenwriting and now of course jewelry design.

Give us a description of your business and the items that you offer:

Handcrafted Sterling Silver and gemstone jewelry


What are your bestsellers? Your specialty? Most popular items?

Earrings. Generally simple, classic designs.

Are your items targeted toward a specific age group?

Not age specific but probably best suited for women thirty and up.

What inspired you to start your own indie business?

I realized I could actually make jewelry and one thing lead to another.


As an independent business woman, what keeps you motivated?

I wish I actually had "motivation". I think it's more of a compulsion to be artistic.


What do you consider to be your greatest achievement thus far?


Motherhood. Hands down.

What has been your biggest challenge as a business woman?

The fact that there are SO many people making jewelry.

What do you believe makes a business successful?

Persistence and the unique.

Do you have any specific goals/plans for the future?

I would like to support my family with my jewelry endeavors.

Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for women out there who may be considering starting their own business on Etsy?

It is slow going at first. But where there is one sale, there are 100.

Tell us the best way to relax after a busy day of work..

Enjoying loved ones.


Give us three (3) words that best describe YOU:

Loving
Quirky
Creative


Give us one (1) word that best describes your business:


1. Feminien

Friday, September 26, 2008

*Weekenders*

"Can a girl ever have too many handbags or weekender totes? Of course not. What a silly question!:-) We love 'em, we need 'em, we want 'em, we buy 'em. It's a girl thing.

With the weekend now at hand, we thought it would be kind of fun to round up a few of our favorite weekenders from Etsy.

This trendy New York Weekender is from Paco and Lupe. Love the gorgeous earthy tones and attractive design. Great for those days when you are going downtown or spending a day in the country. It is $115.00 - a super buy!


Another one to gush over is this stylish, handmade Orange Maze Weekender from drikab. For only $98.00, this bag will dress up your casual wear and give you that fun, on-the-go kind of look. It can fit all of your little necessities and more. Use it as a diaper bag or lap top tote. The possibilities are endless.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Planning A Diva-Themed Party?

These Personalized Diva Gift Boxes from Sweet Dee’s Party Favors would be a huge hit at your next girly-girl birthday party, spa party, bridal shower, or any diva-themed party you might be planning. Look at the colors and the design. These boxes are simply precious. Fill them with goodies, accessories, or small gifts.

Get five boxes for $5.00
Get already assembled boxes for $2.50 each.

They are perfect for moms, for sisters, for girlfriends….for any woman who is a true diva a heart!:-)

Featured Diva Interview - With Morgan From Morgan's Unique Wearable Art

*A Note From DDIB: Morgan's "wearable art" is just as unique and special as she is!:-) Learn more about this creative diva and her magnificent work...

INTRODUCING OUR FEATURED DIVA

Name: Morgan

Etsy Shop title is: Morgan's Unique Wearable Art

Etsy Shop url: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5133850

Tell us a little about yourself:

Retired teacher. Been working with dyes since the late 1960's, when it was "groovy". Now work fulltime in my home studio.


Give us a description of your business and the items that you offer:

My main concentration is on unique paintings on silk scarves of all weights and sizes. I also paint on clothing when I have the time, and have started designing one-of-a-kind silk neckties for men as well.

What are your bestsellers? Your specialty? Most popular items?

Each is unique; I do not repeat designs. Seems like I cannot keep poppy designs in my shop, probably because of the deep contrasts. I have sold every one I have ever done, no two alike. In fact, I need to do more but forgot all about them!
My specialty is stonewashed heavyweight crepe de Chine--I adore playing with the way it diffuses colors.

Are your items targeted toward a specific age group?

Seems like the only people who can afford to treat themselves are professional women. I do a lot of gifts, though. Women will spend money on other before they will on themselves, unfortuntately.

What inspired you to start your own indie business?

Too many scarves, plus this is what I have always wanted to do. I had to wait a long time to do it, and subsequently was SO ready when I retired.

As an independent business woman, what keeps you motivated?

I have never had a problem with this. I have too many ideas and not enough time and energy. I try to do a new painting every day, and design in my head all day and night. sometimes my ideas wake me up at 3 AM and I go down to my studio and work until the idea is finished.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement thus far?

Being chosen as an Etsy Featured Seller-- last May.

What has been your biggest challenge as a business woman?

Promoting. And because I refuse to do shows where I have to set up and have people walk by and perhaps "touch my stuff" limits my venues.

What do you believe makes a business successful?

I have no idea. I would like to think it is quality and customer service, because that is what I focus on.....but I have a feeling that there is a lot of luck and $ involved, too.


Do you have any specific goals/plans for the future?

I just want to be able to sell every single piece of work that I list. Pretty simple!

Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for women out there who may be considering starting their own business on Etsy?

Read the rules. Check out the competition. Do your best, and show no fear.

Tell us the best way to relax after a busy day of work..

READ! I read and re=read the classics-- I get an enormous boost from reading great literature, and re=read often. Right now it's Willa Cather. Stick to the art!


While growing up, who was your role model? Who impressed and inspired you most?

I can't remember-- it was way too long ago! My father was an Iwo Jima survivor, and I idolized him all his life. He understood me and never nagged me or forced me to explain myself. I miss him.

Give us three (3) words that best describe YOU:

Quick
Facile
Mouthy

Give us one (1) word that best describes your business:

Unique

What is your favorite quote, line or saying?

"All generalizations are false, including this one."


Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Cool Site - Products That Promote Your Business

While searching for a place to create some new customized business cards for our online boutique, a friend referred us to VistaPrint.com. It's a cool site with affordable products for promoting your business. PLUS: they offer freebies (you only have to pay the shipping costs, that's it.)

To our surprise, they offer 250 full-color business cards with 42 designs to choose from - FREE! For freebies, we must admit that they are quite professional looking. Take a look. If you are not particularly interested in any of the free designs, there is always the option of uploading your own design or choosing from hundreds of other Premium designs for only $3.99.

More FREE PRODUCTS offered at VistaPrint:

* Free Sticky Notes
* Free Pens
* Free Logo Design
* Free Car Door Magnets
* Free Checks
* Free Rubber Stamps
* Free Window Decals
* Free Caricature Design
* Free Product Samples


For all other products and services, we see that they have a limited Time Offer on their website that says, "Order Today and Save 25% Off Site-Wide".

Be sure to bookmark this site if you are looking for a variety of fun ways to promote your business.:-)

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Featured Diva Interview: With Cherie From Glitterbug Originals

*A Note From DDIB: We've decided to post two Featured Diva Interviews on our blog today and there are many more to be posted in the coming days and months. Right now, let's meet Cherie. She is a very talented lady who creates the most adorable jewelry you've ever seen! (we especially love Cherie's cupcake earrings...soooo cute!) Hope you'll enjoy the interview...

Name: Cherie Smith

Etsy Shop title is: Glitterbug Originals

Etsy Shop url: http://www.GlitterbugOriginals.etsy.com/

Tell us a little about yourself:

I'm a 44 year old stay-at-home mom in Southeast Missouri, married to a great guy for 11 years. We have one daughter, Sophie, who's 8 and calls herself Baby Glitterbug--she's my apprentice and helps me decide what to make next. :-)

I've always loved jewelry, the sparklier and more colorful the better, since I was very little, and can remember begging my grandma to let me JUST LOOK at her big pile of beaded necklaces......of course I couldn't resist trying on a few when her back was turned! he he he! I'd been collecting jewelry, both vintage and modern for quite some time when I discovered lampwork jewelry a few years ago. I bought a lot of pieces, but became very interested in learning to make them myself about 2 years ago, and have never looked back. I love everything about it: searching for the best, most beautiful lampwork art glass beads I can find, developing relationships with the bead artists and working with them to make custom shapes and colors for my designs, making the jewelry, and getting to know my customers, many of whom I absolutely adore and am great friends with.

I've participated in a couple of art shows and have sold my pieces in a few local shops, but I've really concentrated on my Etsy store up 'til now. I would be interested in doing more art shows, though.

Give us a description of your business and the items that you offer:

This is strictly a home business! I've claimed one of the bedrooms in our house and call it my office. I have a big old oak desk with my PC + printer and other business-related stuff, and a work table (nearly buried in beads, crystals, and other jewelry-making accoutrements) where I both make my jewelry and pack it to ship off to the new owners.


What are your bestsellers? Your specialty? Most popular items?


Well, 99.9% of my things are made with art glass beads and Swarovski crystals and pearls. I do use some gemstones, too, and also freshwater pearls. I guess I really specialize in earrings......I make necklaces and bracelets as well, but because they don't sell as quickly as the earrings, I just don't make as many of them. Some really popular items right now are the Sugar Skull earrings--I think because Day of the Dead and Halloween are coming up soon. I sell lots of earrings made with beautiful floral beads, and also the cupcake earrings are popular.

What inspired you to start your own indie business?

I've always been sort of "crafty" and have done lots of different projects--I love to experiment with cooking, to sew, and I love refinishing and recovering old furniture (just simple things--I can't reupholster anyone's couch!). But I just love the glass beads so much--they fascinate me and I can't seem to get enough of them or stop playing with them! :-) I didn't really get into this intending for it to be a business--only a hobby. But it's an expensive hobby--there are so many components that go into a single piece and the best prices are in quantity buys--so I started making a few pieces to sell, hoping to support my own jewelry habit! And when they started to sell, I was hooked. :-)

As an independent business woman, what keeps you motivated?

My daughter, for one thing! She loves the jewelry as much as I do, and is always so enthusiastic when I show her the newest bead arrivals and my finished pieces. And then my customers do, as well. It's always such a compliment to me when someone buys one of my pieces, and then writes to tell me how much they're enjoying wearing them. I LOVE the idea that I've made something that other people have worn and loved. :-)

What do you believe makes a business successful?

I think that good customer service is by far the most important thing about being in business. I try really hard to please my customers. I also think that it's really important to believe in yourself and what you're doing. I make the kind of jewelry that I'd like to wear, myself. And I try to treat my customers the way I'd like to be treated.

Do you have any specific goals/plans for the future?

Honestly, I'm still taking this one day at a time! I'd love to have a brick and mortar shop, but it takes me quite a while to finish a single piece, and I'm not sure I could pay the rent on the income I'd bring in. :-) So as far as goals are concerned, I think that the most I'm hoping for at this point is that more people become aware of my Etsy store, and that more people will come to value handmade goods. And then there are new techniques and skills that I'd like to learn. I live in a small town and there aren't really any classes being give on beadwork. I'm completely self-taught, and expect that any new things I'll learn I'll have to teach myself or learn through books and the internet.

Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for women out there who may be considering starting their own business on Etsy?

First of all, research the business of what you want to make--who else is making it and selling it (on Etsy and elsewhere)? Is there anyone? If so, what are their prices and how much are they selling? And then most importantly: How can you make yours different/better? Once you're clear on all that, then go for it! Etsy is a wonderful website. My experiences there have been 99.9999% positive.

Tell us the best way to relax after a busy day of work..

I love spending time with my family, and I love to shop! But neither are particularly relaxing. ;-) My favorite way to relax is to plop onto the sofa with a good book. :-) I also listen to a lot of audio books while I'm working--much more interesting than the tv or radio. :-)

While growing up, who was your role model? Who impressed and inspired you most?

My mother was a wonderful seamstress and I'm so glad I was able to watch her make lovely things and be taught that I could, too. I guess that's kind of boring, but it's the truth. :-)

Give us three (3) words that best describe YOU:

Creative

Enthusiastic

Happy! :-)


Give us one (1) word that best describes your business:

Handcrafted

What is your favorite quote, line or saying?


"Be bold and courageous. When you look back on your life, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the ones you did." H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

Featured Diva Interview - with Suzanne from Charmed By Suzanne

* A Note From DDIB: Hey everyone! Hope you'll enjoy our very first interview with an Etsy seller. Check out her "charming" shop. We know you'll love it.:-)

INTRODUCING OUR FEATURED DIVA:

Name: Suzanne

Etsy Shop title is: Charmed By Suzanne

Etsy Shop url: http://www.CharmedBySuzanne.etsy.com/
Website: http://www.CharmedBySuz.com/

Tell us a little about yourself:

I work full-time in public relations, but being crafty is my real passion. My shop has been open for three years. I live in Denver and love attending wine tasting events. Some people eat at their breakfast bar and dining room table, but both of mine are covered - one with my beads and the other with my card supplies. Good thing I live alone :)

Give us a description of your business and the items that you offer:

Handcrafted wine charms and wine bottle gift cards. I've even started to offer a few sets of Charmed By Suzanne earrings after people requested them for their young daughters. I offer the most elegant wine charms you'll find anywhere. I use Swarovski crystals in many of my sets and use a variety of specialty beads. My wine bottle gift cards double as gift enclosure cards. I've had customers tell me that after giving a bottle of wine to someone with one of my cards, for the first time, they actually received a thank you note. It helps your bottle stand out in a pack (like at a housewarming party) and adds a special touch.

What are your bestsellers? Your specialty? Most popular items?

Best sellers - dog themed wine charms for sure! People love their dogs. I have sets for different breeds and do custom orders. I also sell "Thanks for dog sitting" wine bottle gift cards. During the holidays, my Jewish-themed wine charms sell out quickly. Everyone has Christmas charms, but it's harder to find wine charms for other holidays. My customers really appreciate that.

Are your items targeted toward a specific age group?

To everyone who likes wine or entertaining (of age, of course!) Most of my customers are 25 and up.

What inspired you to start your own indie business?

I've always been crafty and wanting to sell my wares. But I actually took the plunge and opened my business after purchasing some wine charms are a craft show, getting them home and thinking to myself, I can do this better. So I did.

As an independent business woman, what keeps you motivated?

Hope and the potential of growing my business. My motivation surges when I do a show or get positive feedback from people.

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement thus far?

Having six wine shops and boutiques that sell my products in Denver.

What has been your biggest challenge as a business woman?

Starting from scratch and teaching myself along the way. Everything from setting up a website to obtaining a sales tax license was a lot of work, but so rewarding.

What do you believe makes a business successful?

Determination and enthusiasm.

Do you have any specific goals/plans for the future?

I'm determined to increase my website traffic and network like crazy to do it.

Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for women out there who may be considering starting their own business on Etsy?

Etsy is a safe, easy way to start your own shop. There is so much support in the forums and there a definite feeling of community. And it's fun! Try it. There are so many tools provided and you get exposure to thousands of people. You'll pick up countless tips for becoming a better business woman.

Tell us the best way to relax after a busy day of work..

Wine! It just so happens my favorite relaxation has something to do with my business.



While growing up, who was your role model? Who impressed and inspired you most?

My mom has always been my role model. She's creative, smart and always coming up with new ideas. She believes in herself and is the #1 fan of my business.

Give us three (3) words that best describe YOU:

Creative
Organized
Zany

Give us one (1) word that best describes your business:

Charming

What is your favorite quote, line or saying?

Love like you've never been hurt, dance like non one is watching.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Slice of pumpkin pie, anyone?

With Autumn officially arriving today, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to focus on one of our all-time favorite Autumn desserts: Pumpkin Pie!! (admit it. your mouth is watering just thinking about it, right?) Well, before you settle down with a fork and plate waiting for the first helping....we've got something to tell you. We are talking about Pumpkin Pie soap here. Just think, you can get the warm and spicy aroma of this delicious dessert in a wonderful, handcrafted, sudsy soap!

Just the other day while exploring Etsy, we came across this soap by Swan Mountain Soaps. It was love at first sight!!! We knew right off that our readers would go crazy if they caught glimpse of it. We love warm and delectable "foodsy" fragrances - especially during the Autumn months. We. absolutely. must. have. this. soap.:-)

These limited-edition, extra large bars (atleast 5 ounces each) are made to look and smell just like the real thing....with whipped cream and pumpkin glaze sauce drizzled all over them. Mmmm...Mmmm. Get a bar or two while they last!

Friday, September 19, 2008

Motivational Quotes

"What I know is, is that if you do work that you love, and the work fulfills you, the rest will come." - Oprah Winfrey

"You know you are on the road to success if you would do your job, and not be paid for it." - Oprah Winfrey

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Fabulous Four: Colours Of Autumn

Orange, brown, red, gold, yellow, green…


The colours of Autumn are popping up in indie shops all over the web! It is so exciting to find handmade items that are offered in seasonal fragrances, colours and themes. During one of our recent hunts for items to feature in our “Fabulous Four” segment, we discovered this attractive Autumn Leaf Card by Heather's Handmade Creations. The warm, rich colors on the outside are accompanied by the simple but very thought-provoking words: “A fallen leaf is nothing more than a summer's wave goodbye.” The inside of the card has been left blank but you can actually have the shop stamp something on the inside at your request. Isn't that a great option? A warm card like this could definitely take the chill out of Autumn! The card is $3.50.


And look at this Pumpkin Spice Scented Cupcake Soap by Doctor Sweet Tooth! Looks almost good enough to eat. Reminds us of the bright-colored cupcakes mom made every Halloween when we were kids. Yum yum! This one-of-a-kind soap has aloe and olive oil in it to soften your skin and the frosting is made with a special mixture of whipped shea butter soap. This baby is $6.00.



Keep your pup looking fashionable this season. Check out this adorable Festive Fall Dog Kerchief that we found for only $6.00 at The Vacationland Dog. This seasonal fabric is reversible. One side shows falling leaves and pumpkins and the other side is a solid orange colour. It's "dog-gone cute"!


And look at these sparkly, orange beaded earrings from Heart In Hawaii. They are called Cute Little Pumpkins and are only $15.00.

The shop says that they are handmade from sparkly transluscent, opalescent orange delica and seed beads. There is a pumpkin pendant and charm also available. These earrings would be great to wear on the weekend with your jeans and a cozy sweater or would look fun and fab with your little black dress. The possibilities are endless.

New Season....New Ideas!

With the Fall season now upon us, it's time to introduce some fresh new ideas for our blog. In addition to our Featured Diva Interviews, we are now showcasing "Fabulous Finds" in our left side panel. They are items that we've recently discovered on Etsy (at some of the cutest shops on the web!) and we simply had to share them with you. We'll be updating this section whenever we find something that we are totally smitten with.

We will also be on the lookout for items to feature in our other new blog segment: "Fabulous Four". We'll be searching for four handmade items that share a similar theme and seem to go together. This is going to be a fun challenge for us. We've already got some cool themes in mind. Stay tuned.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Want YOUR diva business to get noticed? Look No Further!!

Join our DDIB Top 100 Sites! This is a great way to get free advertising for your online business.
http://delightfuldivasinbusiness.gotop100.com/

We welcome all Delightful Divas In Business to join. You can place a FREE BANNER AD in our listings or you can become a PAID SPONSOR by buying ad space in our DIVA SITES IN THE SPOTLIGHT sponsor section at the top of every page.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Interview - With Diane From Bath and Body Bliss

*A Note From DDIB: We recently had the opportunity to interview our very first Featured Diva. Her name is Diane and she owns a fabulous business called "Bath and Body Bliss". Her website is very inviting and makes you feel as if you've just entered a cozy, country kitchen ~ so full of warmth and sweetness. Diane offers something for everyone. You'll definitely want to bookmark her site.


INTRODUCING OUR FEATURED DIVA:

Name: Diane
Business: Bath and Body Bliss
Website: http://www.bathandbodybliss.com/







Tell us a little about yourself:

I live in southeastern Wisconsin with my husband,
three large parrots and two cats. I have three grown children - twin girls aged 25, and one son aged 24. I actually had three children in one calender year...not too many people can make that claim, and I did live through it! I enjoy decorating, working with graphics, photography and best of all, traveling and going on cruises! Someday I would like to move somewhere where it's warmer...near the ocean and with palm trees. This past Wisconsin winter was
brutal.

Give us a description of your business and the products/services
that you offer:

We are an online bath and body products company. Our website has a country, "homey" type of feel, and our "simple" packaging seems to be very appealing to many of our customers. We offer body lotions, shower gels, natural soaps & baby products, room sprays, soy candles and more. We do our best to
offer quality products at reasonable prices, and currently offer over 130 fragrances!


What are your best sellers?

I would say our top selling products are our Whipped Body Lotion,
Shower Gels, Body Sprays, Room Sprays and Soy Candles. Our new Bliss line of soaps are selling like crazy! We will soon be adding event favors - soaps and things with personalized labels for birthdays, baby showers and weddings.

Are your products targeted toward a specific age group?

Because of our "simple" type packaging, our
sales probably lean more towards the middle aged group, but we do have many young, college aged customers too.

What inspired you to start your own business?

I had always wanted to have my own business, and when my children all went off to college, I found I had the time I needed to devote to it.

As an independent business woman, what keeps you motivated?

The wonderful comments and emails I receive from customers, they bring a smile to my face. I have met so many really great people online. My ideas keep me motivated too...I love to try new recipes and products. I usually have something in mind that I want to test
out, so the "What's New" section of the website almost always has something listed.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement thus
far?


Being contacted to supply products in goodie bags that were handed out to 250 people at the opening of a brand new jeans store. The event was partnered with a major magazine.

What has been your biggest challenge as a business
woman?

TIME! Not having enough time to do all the things I want to do. My mind is constantly thinking of new ideas, and just finding the time to follow through and complete them is my biggest challenge.

What do you believe makes a business successful?

Great customer service. There are lots of companies out
there that you are competing with and you have to find a way to shine and stand above the others. I try to add a small freebie or some type of sample to my outgoing orders, customers love receiving extra goodies. You must also LOVE
what you are doing. I am so blessed to have found something I truly enjoy doing. I wake up in the morning and can't wat to get started. Even though I put in some very long hours, it truly does not feel like work to me.

Do you have any specific goals/plans for the future?

We will soon be launching our consultant program. It is nearly complete, we just have a few more loose ends to finish up on. We have had a huge interest in the program, and I just want to
be totally prepared for it.

Do you have any words of encouragement or advice for women out there who may be considering starting their own business?

Just be prepared and know that it will encompass a huge amount of time and hard work, and your family must be supportive of your goals. Starting off does not have to cost a fortune either, there are many free ways to advertise and get the word out about your business. It is very self-satisfying to own your own business, you know that the success of your company comes directly from your
hard work alone, and that's a great feeling that you can be very proud of.

Tell us the best way to relax after a busy day of work?

Though that does not happen too often, I do like to sit down and watch the home decorating programs. They are addicting, I could watch them all day if I'd let myself. And of course, there's nothing better than relaxing in a warm tub with some of our bath
goodies!

While growing up, who was your role model? Who impressed and
inspired you most?


That would have to be my father. He was the most intelligent, kind and helpful person I have ever known, and I miss him terribly. I am very fortunate that my son has a lot of his great qualities.

What is your favorite quote, line or saying?

I like the saying "Dance Like No one
is Watching"

 

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