Thursday, December 26, 2013

Bringing Back Saturday Artisan Posts



In the beginning of 2010, I started featuring handmade artisans on a weekly basis. In mid 2012, as my life was a bit more chaotic than the usual and blogging had become low priority, I had decided to take an indefinite break of Saturday Artisan post.

With the new year is just around the corner, I am planning to bring back our weekly Saturday Artisan series in 2014. I think it's time to resume. Saturday Artisan posts feature handmade artists, one Saturday at a time. It's about getting to know the person who makes and run the shop and what products she offers. It's about supporting small businesses.

Would you like to be featured? Or do you know an awesome artist that worth mentioning?
I welcome handmade artisans to nominate yourself and others, whether you have shop at Artfire, Storenvy, Zibbet, or your own website.

Here are some important criteria to be featured in my blog:
  • Must have great customer service, first and foremost. Friendliness and going above and beyond are keys to successful business. If I don't see that in you then I don't think I can refer my readers to your shop. I want my friends to really enjoy their buying experience and I need to have the confidence that they will get that from your shop.
  • Have at least 30 listed items in your shop in order to provide a good variety of products to choose from.
  • Have great pictures: clear and crisp.
  • Sponsoring a giveaway is optional but highly recommended.
Giveaway is held on a following day, Sunday, for a 2-weeks duration. Being featured on Saturday as well as on Sunday means double exposure to your shop and a great way to market your products. I will use my social media to spread the words and will require your active participation to do the same as well. Giveaway items can be products or gift certificates, and it's yours to decide.  

I'm not asking for any compensation to do this. Should you decide to do a giveaway, you are responsible to mail the product to the winner directly.

How to apply:

Leave a comment here or message me on Facebook. But hurry, the New Year is only days away!

Looking forward to promoting you and your awesome handmade shop!

Friday, December 20, 2013

BOGO Sale Stickers

My little man loves stickers. Any kinds of stickers. Getting a sticker as a reward is awesome according to him. It's quite often he comes home from school with a big smile, telling me that he gets stickers from being able to answer teachers' questions correctly or for being able to complete certain tasks. He gets stickers from our family Doctor on each visit either for being a good patient and for his patience waiting for us while we are being consulted. He gets stickers when we saw our Chiropractor who we miss dearly. 

I'd bet a lot of kids (and adults!) love stickers too. I do! Stickers are so versatile in use. You can use sticker as as envelope seal. I use cute thank you stickers on my packaging. I also have label addresses which really save my time for writing my address (and it's more legible I must say). I also like to include stickers in my orders as freebies as well. Stickers are also perfect for birthday or baby shower decoration. You can attach a personalized sticker on a favor. You can also give them away to kids at a party. They will love it, I promise!

So, here I am offering a BOGO sale on all Sticker products. Any stickers including customized stickers are on sale.

This weekend only, December 21 - 22, 2013: BUY a set of STICKERS and get a set of stickers FREE



Cute Owl Label Stickers

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/240008-stickers/products/4244276-cute-owl-label-stickers


Cute Fairy Stickers Labels

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/240008-stickers/products/1479734-36-cute-fairy-stickers-labels



More stickers are available on both of my Artfire and Storenvy shops. 

Spread the joy! It's time to buy stickers.

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Spotted Tuesday

Spotted Tuesday is back!

When DH has a day off and Ethan is at school, we usually go out for a breakfast date. We recently went to Isola Cafe, located at Spazio, not too far away from where we live. This cafe becomes our favorite place to go. It has great customer service which is very important to us. Our principal is that no matter how good the food is and how famous the restaurant is, if they have poor customer service, we unlikely will be back. Another reason we like this cafe is that they do serve great coffee and western foods, reminding us the breakfast we usually if we were in Canada. The also serve foods fushioned 

We love to order these mouthwatering Eggs Benedict, served with crispy hash brown and delicious coleslaw. It comes with a cup of handcrafted illy coffee. 



With the above picture in mind, I looked for great handmade products at Artfire. I included some Christmas themed items as well since we are in the middle of Holiday Season and that Cafe was nicely decorated. I really like how they decorate it: simple and nothing over the top. Take a look at that piece of polka dot fabric and fir on the table for example. It's a red and green and they represent Christmas!

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Movie Themed Party



Movie themed party is such a fun theme to have for any ages and both genders.  Whether you are celebrating a First Birthday, a Ninth birthday, a Sweet Sixteen, or a Girls Night Out, it is definitely a party theme to consider. If you are planning for a surprise party for a Movie Fanatic, then this is it!

Party Decoration 

These movie theater favor tags were originally created as a custom order. The phrase "Thank You For Starring In...." is cute, followed by a customized text such as "Lily's 9th Birthday".  The colors I chose in here is black, red and white. Just like my other creations, I like to use high-quality materials including textured cards and that extra little detail makes these tags pop out. You will also get many movie-related images, not just one (unless you want to of course!).

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/240007-favor-tags/products/3787885-movie-theater-party-favor-tags-for-birthday-and-baby-shower

Other party decorations such as cupcake toppers, banner, napkin rings, stickers, and invitations can be customized and available upon request.


Foods to Serve 

How about some cute decorated popcorn cupcake to serve at the party? This recipe seems easy and yet delicious! Mmm...yummy marshmellow!

http://www.food.com/recipe/popcorn-cupcakes-so-cute-308253


If you are hosting an Oscars party, then these Golden Oscar Cookies are a must to serve!




Entertainment

A movie themed party will not be a fun party if there is no entertainment planned.  Watching a movie I think is a must, but how about setting up a photo corner and catch your guests in action? This decal will be a perfect photo prop to have.




Gift Ideas




Now, what is your favorite movie?

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Countdown to Christmas - Week 12

Here we are in the last week of Countdown to Christmas hosted by Julie and Blu. The Countdown to Christmas - Week 12  has been completed with 113 linked items! I kind of sad that we are wrapping up this weekly countdown. But as it's said, all good things must come to an end.

Participants must promote each item. It is all about working together as a handmade community and support each other. After all, it's only fair to promote others while others work so hard in promoting our products. 
There is a 3 item limit for each shop or studio. Multiple shops may post three for each.

Check out my Countdown to Christmas Pinterest Board for more wonderful artworks.

This week I'm sharing 3 party decorations from my Artfire shop:

Robot Cupcake Toppers, Personalized for Birthday or Baby Shower  

Little Peanut Pink Elephant Favor Tag in Chevron for Baby Shower Party 

Zebra Stripe Print Crown Tiara Favor Tags for Girls Birthday Party

 

 And 3 more adorable party supplies from my Storenvy shop:

Owl Napkin Rings

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/243140-napkin-rings/products/4182620-owl-napkin-rings

It's a Boy Monkey Banner for Party or Nursery Decoration

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/243139-banner/products/4203764-its-a-boy-monkey-banner-for-party-or-nursery-decoration

Pink Owl with Turquoise Wing Stickers, Personalized

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/240008-stickers/products/4242080-pink-owl-with-turquoise-wing-stickers-personalized

 

What is so great about this Weekly Countdown, you asked? It's definitely fun! Not only I get to brag about share mine, I also get to admire fellow handmade artisans' works: different kinds of jewelries such as earrings, necklaces, bracelets, detailed quilts, fancy beaded chopsticks, antique candle holder, beads, catnip toys, accessories such as watch band, stickers, ornaments, knitted scarf and hand knit dish cloth, and miniature doll. You can find gifts for any ages, male and female, a treasure hunter or a golfer, even for your pet.


I hope you enjoy this selection.
Thank you for stopping by. Feel free to leave a comment, share this post by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

Monday, December 2, 2013

Countdown to Christmas - Week 11

Here we are in December already. Time flies and soon we will say good bye to the year 2013. While we are at it, let's enjoy and celebrate every moment of it. 
Julie and Blu host weekly Countdown to Christmas promotion. I have so much fun with it and am kind of sad that it will end soon. The Countdown to Christmas - Week 11  has been completed with 123 linked items! I can tell that we are all in a full swing getting ready for the Holiday Season. 

There is only ONE more week to participate in this Oh-So-Much-Fun promo and I encourage all handmade shops owners to join.  

There is a 3 item limit for each shop or studio. Multiple shops may post three for each. Keep in mind that it's G-rated. Posting starts from Friday to midnight Sunday, which should provide a lot of time to add items.

Check out my Countdown to Christmas Pinterest Board for more wonderful artworks.

3 items from my Storenvy shop:


Teddy Bear Thank You Tags, Personalized


 Airplane Pilot Favor Tags for Boys Birthday Party

 http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/240007-favor-tags/products/4178681-airplane-pilot-favor-tags-for-boys-birthday-party


Robot Food Tent Cards or Place Cards, Personalized

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/243141-food-tent-cards/products/4180616-robot-food-tent-cards-or-place-cards-personalized



Thank you for stopping by. Feel free to leave a comment, share this post by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

Sunday, December 1, 2013

Cyber Monday Sale on Storenvy - Part 5

Adorebynat and 49 amazing shops are having this fun flash sale on:

December 2nd, from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4

Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off on every item in these participating shops! With a total of 50 shops, you can be sure to check off your Christmas List.
Click on the image below to see all the participating shops.



Here are some of Epic products you can purchase with 30% off.

Gingerbread Cookie Apron from Poppy's Garden Gate.

http://poppysgardengate.storenvy.com/products/3480971-gingerbread-cookie-apron-retro-ruffle-christmas-cookie-holiday


Hand Woven "Girasol" Wrap Scrap Baby, Toddler Slip on Shoes from Bellamy Tree.

http://bellamytree.com/products/2022403-hand-woven-girasol-wrap-scrap-baby-toddler-slip-on-shoes-size-up-to-us-to




Snowflake Stud Earrings from Afua Handmade.

http://afuahandmade.storenvy.com/collections/34543-earrings/products/3872554-snowflake-stud-earrings



Pretty in Pinks Floral Rhinestone Ring from East Evelyn Square.

http://eastevelynsquare.storenvy.com/collections/450031-rings/products/3969595-pretty-in-pinks-floral-rhinestone-ring



Turquoise and Red Carnelian Earrings from Michelle Bleu.



Organic Deodorant Paste from Squishyworm.


http://squishyworm.storenvy.com/products/3280671-organic-deodorant-paste-lavender-and-tea-tree-no-harsh-chemicals-vegan-a


The Hunger Games Inspired Wrap Bracelet-Favor from Sapphire Haven.

http://sapphirehaven.storenvy.com/collections/408368-book-inspired-jewelry-things/products/3553102-the-hunger-games-inspired-wrap-bracelet-favor




Thank you for stopping by! Comment is much appreciated and sharing this post will make my day. Sharing can be done by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

Don't forget Cyber Monday Sale starts from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4 on December 2, 2013.  Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off!

Saturday, November 30, 2013

Cyber Monday Sale on Storenvy - Part 4

Adorebynat and 49 amazing shops are having this fun flash sale on:


December 2nd, from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4

Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off on every item in these participating shops! With a total of 50 shops, you can be sure to check off your Christmas List.




Here are a sneak peek of 10 products from 10 shops:

Charming Alice silhouette pink clock charm necklace on celdeconail shop.

http://celdeconail.storenvy.com/collections/142655-jewelry-necklaces/products/1760507-alice-silhouette-pink-clock-charm-necklace




Cute stuffed Giraffe from Unique Creations by Tracy.

http://uniquecreationstracy.storenvy.com/collections/196823-animals/products/1314162-giraffe


Beautiful Red, Black, and Grey Flower Wristlet for everyday use from Lady Lack's Designs.

http://ladylack.storenvy.com/collections/380454-wristlets/products/3648160-red-black-and-grey-flower-wristlet


Check out this oh-so-cute Sly Fox Hat by Jaime D. Designs!

http://jaimeddesigns.storenvy.com/products/4210712-sly-fox-hat


Artystik Ego has awesome selection of pendant necklace. This Golden Cherry Blossom: Pendant Necklace is one of them.

http://www.artystikego.com/collections/371559-fall-winter-collection/products/3066864-golden-cherry-blossom-pendant-necklace





Cute Santa Tile for the holidays decoration by Kira Kira Kawaii.

http://kirakirakawaii.storenvy.com/collections/327183-tiles-coasters/products/2725317-santa-tile


I adore this Stripey Hair Bow from Kute as a Button.

http://kuteasabuttonshop.storenvy.com/products/3783349-stripey-hair-bow
Send to your loved ones this Holiday Magic card is from Knotted Tree Photography.


http://knottedtreephoto.storenvy.com/collections/192782-cards-gift-tags/products/3840604-holiday-note-card-holiday-magic-4x6-fine-art-print-on-recycled-card


Last but not list, a truly treasure box by Just For Littles.

http://justforlittles.storenvy.com/collections/125565-new-featured/products/1938858-pirate-treasure-box


I hope you like the sneak peek. Thank you for stopping by! Comment is much appreciated and sharing this post will make my day. Sharing can be done by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

See you tomorrow for the final post before we go for the Cyber Monday Sale!

Friday, November 29, 2013

Cyber Monday Sale on Storenvy - Part 3


Adorebynat and 49 amazing shops are having this fun flash sale on:


December 2nd, from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4

Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off on every item in these participating shops! With a total of 50 shops, you can be sure to check off your Christmas List.


Click on the image below to see all the participating stores.



Here are 10 products worth checking out from 10 awesome shops:

SPP Bag Tag - Set of Two Peacock Feather Theme from Sweet Pepper.




Brown owl soft plush amigurumi from Mohu. Too adorable, as you know I LOVE owls!


http://mohustore.storenvy.com/collections/76682-all-products/products/2164791-brown-owl-soft-plush-amigurumi


Studded Clucth that is in a trend right now, from Fairy Tale Accessories.

http://shopfairytale.storenvy.com/collections/301686-handbags-clutches/products/2013921-studded-clutch


How cool is this Shop Indie T-shirt from Krmbal? Perfect for those who love handmade and support small businesses.

http://krmbal.storenvy.com/collections/183205-organic-cotton-t-shirts/products/449262-shop-indie


This personalized Chevron Stocking can be found at Sassy by Sacha.

http://sassybysacha.storenvy.com/collections/347319-holidays/products/2904522-chevron-stocking



Steampunk Key Necklace by The LieProducingFactory is a great way to introduce steampunk fashion into your (or an other's) life!

http://lieproducingfactory.storenvy.com/products/1259782-a-beginners-gear-steampunk-key-necklace


I LOVE this Purple Butterfly Rug - Handmade for Children Room Decor or Girl Nursery from Twisted Thread and Hook.


http://twistedthreadandhook.storenvy.com/products/2425533-purple-butterfly-rug-handmade-for-children-room-decor-or-girl-nursery




My popular Alice in Wonderland Teabag Holder will be a great stocking stuffer!

http://adorebynat.storenvy.com/collections/240006-teabag-favors/products/1474999-alice-in-wonderland-teabag-favors-party



Thank you for stopping by! Comment is much appreciated and sharing this post will make my day. Sharing can be done by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

See you tomorrow for another 10 Epic products.

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Cyber Monday Sale on Storenvy - Part 2

Adorebynat and 49 amazing shops are having this fun flash sale on:


December 2nd, from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4

Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off on every item in these participating shops! With a total of 50 shops, you can be sure to check off your Christmas List.


Click on the image below to see all the participating stores.



Without further a due, here are the 10 (TEN) items from 10 awesome shops! 

I LOVE Violetsbuds shop. Her shop is full of pretty flowers. Check out this Blushing Berry headband.



How about this fantastic Keep Calm and Love On pinback button/ magnet from Little House of Crafting.



Tiger Knitty is offering this "Checks" customizable unisex Beanie.



This custom mantra double wrap bracelet from Enchanted is a perfect gift for him or her. It's personalized with your own phrase/ quote and it's eco-friendly!

http://thisenchantedpixie.storenvy.com/collections/382227-featured/products/1345951-custom-mantra-double-wrap-bracelet


Talking about personalization, if you are looking for one of a kind ornament, check out Mystigail Adorenments. This My First Christmas Ornament is made to order with a custom text.



Anzi-Panz DesignsAgate & Red Horn Knotted Leather Bracelet Set is perfect for gift giving or add it to your collection.




This Fist Hat in blue and yellow from Crafty Podes is simply adorable! It's a perfect gift for  elementary school aged children or toddlers.



And believe me if I say you are going to fall in love with Timmy Tyrannosaur from Ribbons & Robots, beacuse I think you will, just like I do. Lol. Timmy Tyrannosaur is sure to stomp his way into your heart.



Just in time for the holiday, this Cup O' Joe Candle and Mug Rug from Playa Blu will be a great gift for teachers, office co-workers, friends and family.




Last but not least, here is my pick from Nature Junkie:  Unsponges
This is a must have for every household!  The UnSponge, a sponge that just keeps giving!




I have SO much fun doing this and I thank you for stopping by. Comment is much appreciated and sharing this post will make my day. Sharing can be done by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

See you tomorrow for another 10 Epic products.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Cyber Monday Sale on Storenvy - Part 1

Adorebynat and 49 amazing shops are having this fun flash sale on:

December 2nd, from 12am EST to 11:59PM EST4

Use code: StorenvyFlash30 and get 30% off on every item in these partipating shops! With a total of 50 shops, you can be sure to check off your Christmas List.



From now until December 1, I am highlighting 10 items a day from 10 participating shops.



Kiser Krafts has this cute Monkey Me Hat that keep one's head warm during the cooler months!


http://kiserkrafts.storenvy.com/collections/270972-featured/products/3038199-monkey-me-hat

And how adorable Mollie Dollie - Mimi is! I love her! Check out The Mollie Shop from more selection of cute dollies.

http://themollieshop.storenvy.com/collections/78693-mollie-dollies/products/1351165-mollie-dollie-mimi


The Knotty Boutique Company is one of my favorite shops. Unfortunately, I can't upload any pictures from her shop to her but please do check out the Spice Child's Cowl. It is made with super soft, super chunky yarn perfect for staying warm.


D. Rix Creations has this lovely Pine Branch Christmas Stocking

http://drixcreations.storenvy.com/collections/431734-christmas/products/3753013-pine-branch-christmas-stocking



 These Copper & Amber Marquise Earrings from A Single Dream is truly gorgeous.

http://asingledream.storenvy.com/collections/339951-special-occasion/products/2554968-copper-amber-marquise-earrings


This 6 Piece Mini Cutlery set by Mystic Eye Creations is hand-crafted and designed to be a superb gift.
http://mysticeyecreations.storenvy.com/collections/87855-accessories/products/668622-6-piece-mini-cutlery-set

And don't forget a sweet hand crocheted capelet for your pet, by AnnaBela Artistry.

http://annabelaartistry.storenvy.com/collections/293650-hand-crocheted-pet-wear/products/2357478-hand-crocheted-dog-capelet-small-saving-graces-rescue-collection


Thank you for stopping by. Feel free to leave a comment, share this post by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Countdown to Christmas - Week 10


Julie and Blu host weekly Countdown to Christmas promotion and I tell you, I have so much fun with it. The Countdown to Christmas - Week 10  has been completed with 103 linked items! 

All handmade shops owners are invited to join.  
There is a 3 item limit for each shop or studio. Multiple shops may post three for each. Keep in mind that it's G-rated. Posting starts from Friday to midnight Sunday, which should provide a lot of time to add items. There are 2 more weeks left and I hope you can join us.

Check out my Countdown to Christmas Pinterest Board for more wonderful artworks.

This week I'm sharing 3 items from my Artfire shop:

Personalized Dinosaur Thank You Cards for Birthday or Baby Shower 

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/7802376

 

Thank You for Coming to My Birthday Nautical Party Favor Tags

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/adorebynat/8079008/thank_you_for_coming_to_my_birthday_nautical_party_favor_tags/handmade/paper_books/tags/gift


Personalized Robot Stickers for Boys Birthday or Baby Shower Party

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/8087155

Here are the highlight of handmade items from fellow Artfire artisans, ranging from different kind of jewelries to crocheted pouch and decal.

Heart Strings Fused Glass Pendant with Hammered Argentium Silver Bail by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/7678446

 

Christmas Necklace Red Green Lampwork Bead with Swarovski Crystals by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/bluemorningexpressions/5468023/christmas_necklace_red_green_lampwork_bead_with_swarovski_crystals_/handmade/jewelry/necklaces/lampwork


Pink Swarovski Crystal Breast Cancer Awareness Handmade Beaded Earring by   

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/8075428


Teal Blue Dichroic Glass Handmade Earrings Swarovski Glowing Jewelry by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/8073578


Tibetan Brass Bead Earrings Turquoise Coral Inlay Petals Handmade OOAK by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/PrettyGonzo/8079212/tibetan_brass_bead_earrings_turquoise_coral_inlay_petals_handmade_ooak/handmade/jewelry/earrings/gemstone

 

 

Striped Blue Small Drawstring Pouch or Bag for Trinkets - Reusable Eco by

  http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/rssdesignsinfiber/3511807/

 

Swarovski Bicones and Chainmaille Necklace by  

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/craftingmemories/8042669/swarovski_bicones_and_chainmaille_necklace/handmade/jewelry/necklaces/chainmail

Alphabet Letter R Glass 1 Inch Square Keychain or Necklace by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/7988518

 

Old Silver Ankh Pendant from Egypt, AAA Lapis Lazuli Bead Necklace by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/craftsofthepast/8060742/

 

Winter Holiday Red Crystal and Snowflake Sterling Silver Earrings by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/8019289



Green Chrysocolla Red Coral Beaded Christmas Holiday Bracelet Earring by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/dianesdangles/8019328/green_chrysocolla_red_coral_beaded_christmas_holiday_bracelet_earring/handmade/jewelry/bracelets/gemstone

 

Wise Men Still Seek Him Vinyl Decal Christmas Three Kings Sticker by

http://www.artfire.com/ext/shop/product_view/8085253


Thank you for stopping by. Feel free to leave a comment, share this post by clicking the social media icons (twitter, google+, facebook etc) found on top, just under this blog post title.