tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54622271804507329052024-03-13T22:54:50.279-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and BagsA Confluence of Women's DIY Ideas with Business and CreativityAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-2846520184017002712015-05-22T21:11:00.001-07:002015-05-22T21:11:34.965-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: FAQ's About the Branding Process<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/05/faqs-about-branding-process.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: FAQ's About the Branding Process</a>: Last week I was going to write about branding your product. However, I got side tracked. So this week I'm going to use the Free Manageme...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-68156186969902453452015-05-22T09:39:00.000-07:002015-05-22T09:39:48.768-07:00FAQ's About the Branding Process<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Last week I was going to write about branding your product. However, I got side tracked. So this week I'm going to use the <a href="http://managementhelp.org/aboutfml/what-it-is.htm" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Free Management Library </a>that I referred to in my blog last week along with some other sources to get a clearer picture of the definition of branding and what it involves.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've been thinking about what is a brand and how to achieve it. My shop isn't quite up to par in this area. My goal in the beginning was to get my handmade items listed so people could find them and buy what I had to offer. I believe in a slow even process when building a business. So now I want to work on branding so people will eventually come to easily recognize my products just as much as one would Coke, Coach, Disney, Ford, etc. I know that it doesn't come overnight, but a gradual process instead. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Since I wanted to know more about the branding process, I thought I would share with others what is involved by </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">developing some general FAQ's on the subject.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>1. What is a brand?</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">According to Yahoo dictionary, a brand is the following:</span><br />
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<li><div class="explanation">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A trademark or distinctive name identifying a product, service, or organization.</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="explanation">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A product or service so identified.</span></div>
</li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">An association of positive qualities with a widely recognized name, as of a product line or celebrity.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>2. What does a brand incorporate?</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It includes the company name, all the logos, slogans, design colors, perceived </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">images</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and types of values portrayed.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>3. What is a logo?</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Again, the Yahoo dictionary defines it as:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A symbol or a design that identifies a brand.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some popular logos:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTlZXYZV1PMwuB6KI3epcRS_lAaJuIcQbKxD8B2VnZetv5ATtAFRu7JqysCA4xIUNPRUShRITTnfNpIi-p77O2iXAcT3YBsEUkfspkAnwZwJi6ZCAP7f63YWPVzl4AzSC2vFy5Cwh6Q/s1600/images-1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBTlZXYZV1PMwuB6KI3epcRS_lAaJuIcQbKxD8B2VnZetv5ATtAFRu7JqysCA4xIUNPRUShRITTnfNpIi-p77O2iXAcT3YBsEUkfspkAnwZwJi6ZCAP7f63YWPVzl4AzSC2vFy5Cwh6Q/s1600/images-1.jpeg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75-kkNfOqlrma-_AQlMuV1hLmUHSglDYjBE31ny463cvQRWuY1cw5K6wwei8Tp-C6VNe9M6yl7L_YdzSh8ALgBc1W_lIbS89AtuwfBZK9OPK7A9kZcPYwIaXfAMbqBLNl7I7QHYNgmA/s1600/images.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg75-kkNfOqlrma-_AQlMuV1hLmUHSglDYjBE31ny463cvQRWuY1cw5K6wwei8Tp-C6VNe9M6yl7L_YdzSh8ALgBc1W_lIbS89AtuwfBZK9OPK7A9kZcPYwIaXfAMbqBLNl7I7QHYNgmA/s1600/images.png" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi666RuonOjCTiBScCqv9l26Z0TbaJDnSVNl1NTzmmeWorWHmW7E6RPD5MjbdvOL3eT70bV4x6Ohb9qRDOh__7eY1LX6AAcOLz_lJTuuUXLdQHqDeSuNkay72bMsP-m6B2UIA03zddAxg/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi666RuonOjCTiBScCqv9l26Z0TbaJDnSVNl1NTzmmeWorWHmW7E6RPD5MjbdvOL3eT70bV4x6Ohb9qRDOh__7eY1LX6AAcOLz_lJTuuUXLdQHqDeSuNkay72bMsP-m6B2UIA03zddAxg/s1600/images.jpeg" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This is my logo.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkXwTpJXvAA1J4lyx6-GaCjiV9K5ivqkBRN6D1vIHbBrqvXq1CIFsKvm4QBqa-zyyBqN2-6jxOdLoZGADY9yhvgvWneWU8NL-FvlbYe_x3rQW7ZLytVW5hWZc-u-tuby-rwyb3HA9_A/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjkXwTpJXvAA1J4lyx6-GaCjiV9K5ivqkBRN6D1vIHbBrqvXq1CIFsKvm4QBqa-zyyBqN2-6jxOdLoZGADY9yhvgvWneWU8NL-FvlbYe_x3rQW7ZLytVW5hWZc-u-tuby-rwyb3HA9_A/s320/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<b>4. What is a slogan and it's purpose?</b></div>
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<a href="http://www.wisegeek.org/what-is-a-slogan.htm" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Wise Geek</span></a> defines it as the following:</div>
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"A slogan . . . is a short phrase or sentence meant to gain attention and to get a specific message across quickly. People us it primarily in advertising . . . trying to make the public more familiar with someone or something. </div>
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The purpose of a slogan is to communicate information about a company, product, service or candidate, helping people to become familiar with and remember what's available. . . . differentiates whatever a company or other group is promoting from what the competition has to offer."</div>
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Some popular slogans:</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<ul>
<li>Coke is the real thing -- Coke</li>
<li>Finger-lickin' good --KFC</li>
<li>Have it your way -- Burger King</li>
<li>A diamond is forever -- De Beers</li>
<li>Built Ford tough! -- Ford Motor Inc.</li>
</ul>
This is my slogan: Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Why?? Because I believe that everyone has a different style; moods affect the way one shops, and who you are as an individual defines what you buy.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. Why is color so important when designing a logo for your brand?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here's some interesting facts about <a href="http://www.fastcompany.com/3028378/leadership-now/what-your-logos-color-says-about-your-company-infographic" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">color</span></a>.</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">84.7% of consumers cite color as the primary reason for buying a particular product.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">93% look a visual appearance.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">80% of shoppers think color increases brand recognition.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ads in color are read 42% more often than the same ads in black and white.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Color can improve people's comprehension, learning and reading levels.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every color elicits a <a href="http://www.brandingmagazine.com/2012/07/26/why-are-brand-colors-so-important/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">different response</span></a> from humans.</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>6. What's in a <a href="http://managementhelp.org/marketing/branding.htm" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">name</span></a>?</b></span></div>
<div class="explanation">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">According to the online library, y</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">our business name conveys the nature of your service and your unique value proposition. An unique value propositon does the following:</span></div>
<div class="explanation">
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Concisely describes of your product or service. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Explains the uniqueness of the</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> product or service.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Why people should buy from you instead of the competition</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The business name and brand has to make sense locally and understood by others if it's extended beyond the region to other areas of the world. For instance, my business name is <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Purse O'nality by Mary</a>. I would hope that people would understand that my business has something to do with purses, and my name is Mary.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">7. How do you build a brand?</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Develop name recognition by building an image of your business or service</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Create a clear and concise message about your company or product through logos, slogans, and colors</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Showcase what sets your business or service apart from the competition</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Create and build consistancy</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I stated earlier, building a brand takes time. However if done correctly, success will create loyal customers and increasing sales. Just like a business plan, a good brand name is another essential ingredient to a successful business.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-86180733134390553822015-05-15T07:41:00.001-07:002015-05-15T07:41:42.046-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: A Great Resource for Your Business<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/05/a-great-resource-for-your-business.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: A Great Resource for Your Business</a>: I was going to write about branding your products in this session of Talking Shop with Mary. However, when I started to research I stumbled ...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-46176768539034435172015-05-15T07:35:00.000-07:002015-05-15T07:35:26.630-07:00A Great Resource for Your Business<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I was going to write about branding your products in this session of Talking Shop with Mary. However, when I started to research I stumbled upon a great website that I would like to share. It is a <a href="http://managementhelp.org/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Free Management Library</a> for anyone who is looking for help for their business. The library provides free online access to resources in order to help individuals, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">businesses, organizations and groups in the area of development. This library has grown to be one of the largest of this type in the world in the past 15 years with many of its articles in the top 10 of Google search results.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The library, which is provided by the <a href="http://www.authenticityconsulting.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Authenticity Consulting, LLC</a>, has approximately 650 topics with nearly 10,000 links related to areas such as business basics, hiring employees, strategic management, writing for business just to name a few. All of the articles are submitted voluntarily. Only about half articles submitted are accepted. Each topic also has recommended books </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">and other related library topics. The library also has a blog directory, free online training, online groups and other general resources.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This library is a vast wealth of information for anyone who wants to succeed in business, no matter whether it's e-commerce, or a shop on main street. It's for profit and nonprofit alike. All you have to do is utilize the website. I know I will be using this site to help me with my business. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Speaking of my <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">business</a>, take advantage of my coupon for a 10% discount that will be running until the end of October. Just enter: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">TSMPURSEINDUSTRY. I will be putting new items in my shop or adding to my current inventory in the near future. It's always an advantage to keep coming back to check on the shop.</span><br />
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Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-35298723417910915422015-05-08T04:49:00.001-07:002015-05-08T04:49:41.071-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Designing and Jigsaw Puzzles<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/05/designing-and-jigsaw-puzzles.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Designing and Jigsaw Puzzles</a>: When you start constructing anything, whether it be a garment or a Murphy bed , it all starts out the same way. Part A and part B go toge...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-30680906966268222972015-05-08T04:46:00.000-07:002015-05-08T04:46:51.017-07:00Designing and Jigsaw Puzzles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHZ9TzEOgoBU2VyeQzVyfCUs_qhs450YPzvjDNdREhyphenhyphenFF8LAectqmGqJ0Pn9PbtKZ5iNw4kvYSE8rndZKlem24oYGRWFsju-AlTfAcNDvsnc_CfhNY4D1QXKVNRmIeRjMBnIggcjUDg/s1600/DSC06174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmHZ9TzEOgoBU2VyeQzVyfCUs_qhs450YPzvjDNdREhyphenhyphenFF8LAectqmGqJ0Pn9PbtKZ5iNw4kvYSE8rndZKlem24oYGRWFsju-AlTfAcNDvsnc_CfhNY4D1QXKVNRmIeRjMBnIggcjUDg/s400/DSC06174.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">When you start constructing anything, whether it be a garment or a <a href="http://www.create-a-bed.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Murphy bed</span></a>, it all starts out the same way. Part A and part B go together and part C and part D go together. Then part AB goes with part CD. Wallah! You have the basics started. However, have you ever thought about how to put a idea from your mind onto a piece of paper? Well, it's quite like a jigsaw puzzle. All the pieces have to fit together in a certain order. Sometimes you have to go back to the drawing board. Many times it's a step or two forward and then a step back.<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn3_7kyPIvNU8iSSvuQ97TeoqmQNmHVXNfLtmz9lqp3V8xtNURqpOzC0Mh9Bim1LtCoX-a1dRSu6I4yxdQmDv4WMZ9S-rUmmL8r9bxMWuxZjm5F-DPUxWyKfxHLZBN6qaLrM-DQx5wg/s1600/DSC04196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqn3_7kyPIvNU8iSSvuQ97TeoqmQNmHVXNfLtmz9lqp3V8xtNURqpOzC0Mh9Bim1LtCoX-a1dRSu6I4yxdQmDv4WMZ9S-rUmmL8r9bxMWuxZjm5F-DPUxWyKfxHLZBN6qaLrM-DQx5wg/s320/DSC04196.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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The Murphy bed I constructed</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A fine example of this is a wallet that I'm currently working on. I had some brown vinyl and started making little coin purses. This got me thinking about how my daughter keeps telling me that I need to have some purses that have shop card holders in them. She tends to like purses and wallets with plenty of pockets and neat places to store her valuables. Another thing both of my daughters and my granddaughters keep telling me is that I need to jazz up my items with a little bling and maybe some studs. My goal eventually is to make things from leather so I thought that working on vinyl would be a good beginning for a prototype wallet. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Recently, I've been making some <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">multifunctional zipper pouches</span></a>. So I used that as the basis for my length and width of the wallet. I wanted to have a fold over flap in a envelope style with a snap and a center pocket with a zipper. I have seen plenty of these styles before, but getting the center zipper pocket sewn in place was intriguing. I had done it a couple of times before, but it had been awhile. In addition, I did it differently each time due to the purse design. I wanted to come up with a design that was simple and easy. One thing I also did a while back was to purchase a little wallet with a middle insert so I could study it. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So to start my design, I had to draw and measure the jigsaw pattern pieces for my puzzle. I began with the outside fabric, knowing that the inside lining and interfacing would be the same. M</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">y design pattern measured 11" X 6". I allowed 1/2" seam lines for my entire design. My flap had a 35 degree angle that began about 9.25" up from the bottom. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The inside zipper pocket was going to be made from the same outside fabric. That pattern piece measures 7" X 7" and the the piece that attached it to the wallet was 8" X 6". I had to figure out how to construct the shop card holders. First, I measured a shop card, since they all are a standard size. Second, I added the half inch seam allowance plus 1/4" for attaching it to the wallet lining. Third, I decided how many shop card inserts I wanted and measure the rise between each shop card. Finally, I had to add up all the figures, double it and allow for some top stitching between each shop card insert. Even with the best measurements and allowing for all of the necessary details before cutting the fabric, the jigsaw piece doesn't quite fit into the puzzle, which means you have </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">to go back to the drawing board.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So just like a jigsaw puzzle, I was putting this wallet together. I was pretty proud of my design and how it was coming together--so I thought. I had made the zipper pocket for the mid section. I was satisfied with the results and ready to insert the shop card piece.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It was then when I realized that it wasn't working quite right. The shop card inserts I had sewn into place were too long. I had begun with 4 inserts, so I decided to shorten it. It still wasn't working.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> The wallet dimensions were too small for placing the shop cards top down. However, I did notice that if I put the shop cards in from left to right, it would work. If I changed my design a little I could still use the outside fabric piece for a later wallet design. I decided to do that, but that meant I would have to redesign the original wallet to fit the shop cards in the way I wanted them to appear and to include my original zipper pocket. It was a setback, but designing is like a jigsaw puzzle. All the pieces have to come together in a certain way so b</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ack to the drawing board I went. This time I made the wallet larger not only in length, but in width as well so I could fit USD paper currency inside the wallet without having to fold it.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This time I cut a 15" X 7" piece of vinyl fabric with a flap that had a 40 degree angle. Later I did cut off a couple of inches in the length. After ironing on the heavy craft interfacing, I drew lines on the interfacing for seam lines and snap placement. The wallet was ready for the middle section, but how to attach it was another piece of the puzzle. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My problem was how to attach the ends without any rough edges showing. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So I did some research. I looked at the wallet I purchased. It had 2 mid sections. I then looked at the couple of purses I did with mid sections. My crochet purse had the solution. It was simple. I just had to fold in the edges. Now why didn't I see that before??</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfk9D3dF3HGyl0ZkOcFiZ4uHQVvcS4vnwKG581zZYrE2RGkTwzbxOXcrX84uoyYiH_AOKLiAKOPDUsEdiIrM-7WQLF4qa5vZ7oWdn89tezZqv_7Cmu_Ort3UyB_PQ84RX6ieLghr5MJQ/s1600/DSC06177.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfk9D3dF3HGyl0ZkOcFiZ4uHQVvcS4vnwKG581zZYrE2RGkTwzbxOXcrX84uoyYiH_AOKLiAKOPDUsEdiIrM-7WQLF4qa5vZ7oWdn89tezZqv_7Cmu_Ort3UyB_PQ84RX6ieLghr5MJQ/s320/DSC06177.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
My Wallet Design--A work in progress</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Next, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I basted the lining to the outside fabric. As stated earlier I decided to cut of a couple inches because it was more like the size of a clutch purse than a wallet. I pinned the mid section to the wallet and discovered that I had to adjust and cut it a little to make it work. Now it's all ready to be stitched together and add the final touches. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Designing something is like a jigsaw puzzle because you can envision in your mind how something should look. It's like looking at the whole picture on the outside of the puzzle box. Inside is all the different puzzle pieces. Individually, you can't really tell where the piece goes until you find other pieces that fit with it. Eventually your design idea comes together piece by piece and you get to see your imagination come to life in a physical form. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhiPo6iTUZNCPxA977_tkKS8XrbHyX05ZI9GvgLWZIAFXNdNYsaD6vtK_k1vekj34qRyiywqG5pQLThG-jUIyOKAsGE6tDQHktXOnh6X7e7l86s_gesJk-ATkTk3KWt-FIho4nZkD-Q/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhiPo6iTUZNCPxA977_tkKS8XrbHyX05ZI9GvgLWZIAFXNdNYsaD6vtK_k1vekj34qRyiywqG5pQLThG-jUIyOKAsGE6tDQHktXOnh6X7e7l86s_gesJk-ATkTk3KWt-FIho4nZkD-Q/s320/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-30497991995304214812015-05-01T04:38:00.001-07:002015-05-01T04:38:12.710-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Remenscising When . . .<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/05/remenscising-when.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Remenscising When . . .</a>: When I was about 12 or 13 years old, my mother decided that I should start learning how to sew. My mother was just an average seamstress. ...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-65807607346074637342015-05-01T04:35:00.000-07:002015-05-01T04:35:04.620-07:00Remenscising When . . .<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">When I was about 12 or 13 years old, my mother decided that I should start learning how to sew. My mother was just an average seamstress. I don't know why she thought I should learn, but it turns out that she made a great decision. I remember going with my mom to pick out the dress pattern and material. The pattern wasn't very difficult; one my mom could do and teach me plenty. The pattern was a princess style A-line shift dress with long straight sleeves with a little bit of gathering at the cap. It had a simple round neckline without a collar and it zipped up the back. The bust area had long double pointed darts in the front and the usual side darts. The length of the dress came to mid knee. The front of the pattern envelope had a couple other versions such as a dress with a round peter pan collar and short sleeves, and another in a sleeveless version. The pattern probably cost about fifty cents.</span> <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When we were at the fabric section of Sears & Roebuck, we looked through the pattern books. </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Did you even know Sears had fabric department at one time? Anyway, s</span>he showed me how to find my pattern in the drawer and made me practice a couple of times. Well, until at least she thought I had the master the art of numerical sequences. Finally we choose a pattern and started to look for material. Back then, knit fabrics were basically nonexistent and permanent press (also known as perma press) was the latest technological advancement. Cotton was still king and the most inexpensive material for making a dress. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In searching out the perfect fabric for my dress, my mom showed me the difference between the many types of cotton fabrics such as thicker fabrics, i.e duck, corduroy, denim and the thinner fabrics like 100% cotton and the newer cotton blends that didn't need to be ironed. My mom gave me examples of what types of clothing I could make from these materials. It was very cost effective back then to sew your own clothing, and in my family with 8 other siblings, this was especially the case.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the end, I settled on a red orange paisley print, which probably cost only </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">$2.00-$3.00 for the</span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> three or so yards of fabric purchased</span></span>. It was the first time I could remember even seeing a paisley motif. I even remember asking my mom what the print was called. I thought the word "paisley" was cool to say. To this day, I still love paisley prints and always associate the print with this memory.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">It wasn't until a few days later that we started working on the dress. I believe it was summertime. My mom taught me how to lay out and pin the pattern, then how to cut it out and what to trace. We did all these things together. I was fascinated and excited. I learned quite a bit up to this point. It didn't matter to me that my mom sewed much of the dress because I had learned so much already. However, she saw that it was still important for me to learn how to use a sewing machine and to learn how to sew a simple seam. So that's what I did. I sewed the easier parts such as the side seams, and the sleeve seam. It was quite awkward that first time using a sewing machine. Do you know how hard it is to coordinate the fabric to go through the machine's presser foot; to keep a straight stitch line and to press on the foot pedal for a continuous even movement? AND do it all at the same time? Well, it's not easy, and eventually my coordination improved with time and more experience.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When that dress was done, I was so proud of it. It was my favorite. I wore it for many family occasions and going to church on Sunday. I don't remember what happened to that dress. Perhaps I just grew out of it and it was given away to a relative or family friend. My younger sister (15 months younger) was bigger and heavier than me so I do know that the dress wasn't passed down to her. Whatever happened to it doesn't really matter, but the memory of that event changed my life forever. I had a passion for sewing and continued to sew. It was only a couple of years later when I surpassed my mother's seamstress skills. Since then I have always had an interest in design, but have never pursued it -- perhaps someday. What I have learned about design has been all self taught. I have still more to learn, but I couldn't have accomplished any of it without my mother, a dress pattern and some simple paisley fabric.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As I had stated, I love paisley and I happen to have a few items in my<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" target="_blank"> <span style="color: blue;">shop</span></a> with a paisley motif. Why not check these out and see what other items in the shop might catch your eye as well.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4E5oiei4I95tFw_rYMXtNLmqSwnEiaTU-yk_yOTWVK3w1zomNt0qtepowb4wRjsJH_QDZcJPldd3VA8zvQ0ZoByFMxCQ_bfTx9k52YhsC0RaNA0MT263ZbL32BtzqtBX9TFJT4yI8Q/s1600/DSC06065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio4E5oiei4I95tFw_rYMXtNLmqSwnEiaTU-yk_yOTWVK3w1zomNt0qtepowb4wRjsJH_QDZcJPldd3VA8zvQ0ZoByFMxCQ_bfTx9k52YhsC0RaNA0MT263ZbL32BtzqtBX9TFJT4yI8Q/s1600/DSC06065.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Zipper Pouch in a Handkerchief Paisley Pattern $15.00 </h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSA1HOYTN7b8c_8msOx0G_-Y4QMokAY32H_kdHheheMloWFxUV3zu_UTy8JCdDV8Pvk8aQEygYjP-pTA9A6SHFoUSZf_Ix3VNEe8M9Q2yTpzaUdd1ZYeC-58RvFRT4A1FGn99CcP5_g/s1600/DSC05729.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSA1HOYTN7b8c_8msOx0G_-Y4QMokAY32H_kdHheheMloWFxUV3zu_UTy8JCdDV8Pvk8aQEygYjP-pTA9A6SHFoUSZf_Ix3VNEe8M9Q2yTpzaUdd1ZYeC-58RvFRT4A1FGn99CcP5_g/s1600/DSC05729.JPG" height="203" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Women's Pink and Tan Paisley Evening Clutch Bag $70.00 </h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacyHM8XnAcTOYUB4Eu-Oyhx5SHl10JcvcLUJZq9NKzLyuSeOX3G3VusmTX_crEzTWy6tLoalAQZHqOKCHRXc_kIsKkJs1PIkONFQr13SeE6pa16Dm-BlHRbrUtYaPMjphdBKg9Q13JQ/s1600/DSC06011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhacyHM8XnAcTOYUB4Eu-Oyhx5SHl10JcvcLUJZq9NKzLyuSeOX3G3VusmTX_crEzTWy6tLoalAQZHqOKCHRXc_kIsKkJs1PIkONFQr13SeE6pa16Dm-BlHRbrUtYaPMjphdBKg9Q13JQ/s1600/DSC06011.JPG" height="266" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Western Clutch Handkerchief Purse with Paisley Motif $55.00 </h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIDEvXZxIRZ_uULKB_2ArYYYsn7ObP32CuTHMP5Vrrm15R1tk-GHA3zJ_F8iP7sp3yLhuBm4PhFc1Q7Yl3n9ov6PGXrqf1DNlh_AxfZ2T8GNoKpsT2SQ3US21iarHiKl_68KqttQoJw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTIDEvXZxIRZ_uULKB_2ArYYYsn7ObP32CuTHMP5Vrrm15R1tk-GHA3zJ_F8iP7sp3yLhuBm4PhFc1Q7Yl3n9ov6PGXrqf1DNlh_AxfZ2T8GNoKpsT2SQ3US21iarHiKl_68KqttQoJw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality </h3>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-11391031680519097712015-04-24T11:50:00.001-07:002015-04-24T11:50:49.318-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Facts About the Handbag Industry<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/04/facts-about-handbag-industry.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Facts About the Handbag Industry</a>: Since I sell handbags and purses, I thought this week I would share some interesting facts I found online about the industry. Globall...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-38246003065554400052015-04-24T11:49:00.000-07:002015-04-24T11:49:21.195-07:00Facts About the Handbag Industry<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Since I sell handbags and purses, I thought this week I would share some interesting facts I found online about the industry. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Globally</span></h3>
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<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Handbags and accessories are among the fastest growing segments in the overall luxury good industry.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The top ten luxury handbags searched globally are in the following order: 1) </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Coach, 2) Louis Vuitton, 3) Channel, 4) Gucci, 5) Longchamp, 6) Prada, 7) </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">HERMĒS, 8) Mulberry, 9) Marc <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #999999;">Jacobs</span>, 10) Michael Kors. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> </span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One in five luxury handbags are man bags. Still, the estimated $5.9 million luxury man bags bought in 2014, doesn't even compare to the $25.6 million bought by women.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">New channels such as e-commerce or online shopping have become popular. Good bargains is the driving force for such sites. </span></span></span></li>
</ul>
<h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">US Market</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the United States the industry's revenue for the 2014 year was reported at $331.1 million USD, with an estimated gross profit of 33%. The total domestic demand was $3.1 billion USD. </span></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In 2014, The US handbag, luggage and accessory stores alone had a 9.6 billion increase in revenue. The market increased from 9 billion from the 2012, which is a 3.3% rise in the 5 years leading up to the year 2014. It is expected to increase another 4.3% from 2014 to 2019.</span></span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Handbag market in the US can be segmented into four areas: 1) Totes, 2) Shoulder Bags, 3) Purses and Wallets, 4) Satchels and Saddles. The largest segment in terms of revenue are the Totes with approximately 30% of the 2014 market in terms of revenue.</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Of the leading US designer of luxury handbag companies, Coach Inc. holds 28% share in the US market, making them a leader in luxury handbags. O</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ne-fifth of total sales of all luxury bags sold by Coach Inc. are man bags, which is in line with global handbag industry.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">UK Market</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In the UK, handbags make up the largest share of the fashion accessories market. At least 1 out of every 2 women bought a handbag and 1 out of every 8 men bought a man bag in 2013.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Of all the handbags bought in the UK, 25% were bought through e-commerce sites such as eBay, Amazon, ASOS, etc.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The reason that almost half of the women buy a handbag is for a special occasion.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Twenty-three percent of men as opposed to thirteen percent of women are influenced more by a fashion trends and claim this as the incentive for buying.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sales, discounts and special offers are the main incentives for 59% of women buying a handbag.</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The purse and handbag has been a very hot trend for the past 5 years and is continuing to grow. Online sites like Etsy are going to continue to be a great source to search out purses and handbags. So with that in mind, I thought I would show some of my purse and handbag designs that are in my Etsy shop. Today, I'm offering a 10% discount in my shop. Use coupon code: <i>TSMpurseindustry</i>. This coupon expires 10-24-2015.</span><br />
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigj52KWQjRCmDLdKyLecefVI53mEC376fbwLWBpZ4rjm-DbblLXAw8bL1LOAEQfM5oR_RKpLLPtjjXzMwAPxxjvyfOYYoRo0YyL0x9TFps90bL_2YfdJvPn7dVRXLxzL-ylDQkr2Gb-g/s1600/DSC06028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigj52KWQjRCmDLdKyLecefVI53mEC376fbwLWBpZ4rjm-DbblLXAw8bL1LOAEQfM5oR_RKpLLPtjjXzMwAPxxjvyfOYYoRo0YyL0x9TFps90bL_2YfdJvPn7dVRXLxzL-ylDQkr2Gb-g/s1600/DSC06028.JPG" height="258" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/226362817/small-crossbody-purse-zebra-print-purse?ref=shop_home_active_3" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Crossbody Purse Pouch</span></a> </span>$20.00 USD</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyjD0zK7xdfJUe3YN1XzB9BeqNNo8JCpd1H9W6c79wdBUoJ6kTQ2u-wkzXJqABTjv-MEP70c3n_oumeExeAN3ep96YiUeEpeer6DFuYDYmBedE-5XDnDbP5KRek6Ijre3H0mOUSkPCcg/s1600/DSC06022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyjD0zK7xdfJUe3YN1XzB9BeqNNo8JCpd1H9W6c79wdBUoJ6kTQ2u-wkzXJqABTjv-MEP70c3n_oumeExeAN3ep96YiUeEpeer6DFuYDYmBedE-5XDnDbP5KRek6Ijre3H0mOUSkPCcg/s1600/DSC06022.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/226360258/small-black-and-white-wristlet-purse?ref=shop_home_active_6" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Geometric Wristlet Purse</a> $17.50+ USD</h3>
<div>
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</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQSEETsdrSWxCtyCOTpbhE6xRj2lfUcw-OI7XwpyOibbBk_S422xLTkMPcHSRamV4n9AacR0dFzHfrlB2Wzw19NDnwd06ceVur3Pm4LfvCbVTpF1wX4pN7WGo-elJrmY5EFWj05Ng4g/s1600/DSC05499.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfQSEETsdrSWxCtyCOTpbhE6xRj2lfUcw-OI7XwpyOibbBk_S422xLTkMPcHSRamV4n9AacR0dFzHfrlB2Wzw19NDnwd06ceVur3Pm4LfvCbVTpF1wX4pN7WGo-elJrmY5EFWj05Ng4g/s1600/DSC05499.JPG" height="252" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/202310912/fabric-handbag-black-and-white-polka-dot?ref=shop_home_active_13" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Summer Fun Fabric Handbag</a> $80.00 USD</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPh5IXgyjAUcmDMxbwhR7R3UJ5zFF29LuUTpke7klV0XdrQCo8ealKNF-ji4iXshhanLMmFyZEzz5nrSgGzpx8izfsLr5BGR241PNwXfT_ELBNT2uHqITsxSw-OfSbwTHD9iSpY5VPBw/s1600/DSC05564_2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPh5IXgyjAUcmDMxbwhR7R3UJ5zFF29LuUTpke7klV0XdrQCo8ealKNF-ji4iXshhanLMmFyZEzz5nrSgGzpx8izfsLr5BGR241PNwXfT_ELBNT2uHqITsxSw-OfSbwTHD9iSpY5VPBw/s1600/DSC05564_2.JPG" height="230" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/207164377/large-clutch-purse-teen-purse-black-and?ref=shop_home_active_20" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Large Clutch Purse</a> $55.00 USD</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3c3Gktr0A_AwC0yR1BLBlBr8N-KLQ17Vn9URSFrpAe3xgWw4Na52AyUkwAeHYVpbrB2UQ1Iv5_HxqTGh9Sn938hYnQxvqj5VAhHTLyLVis7TNppwFQmyKt2kQTGjv8FkIKjMRLtVsNA/s1600/il_570xN.575522706_nihg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3c3Gktr0A_AwC0yR1BLBlBr8N-KLQ17Vn9URSFrpAe3xgWw4Na52AyUkwAeHYVpbrB2UQ1Iv5_HxqTGh9Sn938hYnQxvqj5VAhHTLyLVis7TNppwFQmyKt2kQTGjv8FkIKjMRLtVsNA/s1600/il_570xN.575522706_nihg.jpg" height="306" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163322287/handmade-pretty-in-pink-purse-crocheted?ref=shop_home_active_12" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Crochet Pink and Zebra Print Designer Handbag</a> $200.00</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RmrTflasJFH_URyNoY7SPtAeWzMLrM025Wt_ph3W-KrEUaxARh81BLeSQbPPW-8Xyxo8wIjkVDtyN6oW2VDtNrPGWX1DI2herHo1bo-ZTU6N8SgtYjyK1K6weLZBaKcxohE1IXjwGA/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9RmrTflasJFH_URyNoY7SPtAeWzMLrM025Wt_ph3W-KrEUaxARh81BLeSQbPPW-8Xyxo8wIjkVDtyN6oW2VDtNrPGWX1DI2herHo1bo-ZTU6N8SgtYjyK1K6weLZBaKcxohE1IXjwGA/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
Sources:<br />
<a href="http://www.researchmoz.us/global-handbags-market-report-2014-edition-report.html" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Research Moz</span></a>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.digital-luxury.com/reports/wli_handbags.pdf?email=elizabeth@stylitics.com" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Digital Luxury Group</span></a></span><br />
<a href="http://qz.com/332472/man-bags-are-now-one-fifth-of-the-luxury-handbag-market/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Quartz</a><br />
<a href="http://www.marketresearch.com/Supplier-Relations-US-LLC-v3418/Women-Handbag-Purse-Manufacturing-International-8842577/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Market Research</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.thestreet.com/story/13115446/1/handbags-market-in-the-us-2015-2019.html" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">The Street</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.mintel.com/blog/retail-market-news/the-10-need-to-know-facts-about-the-fashion-accessories-market-in-the-uk" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Mintel</span></a><br />
<br />
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</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-14652312977107694452015-04-17T10:25:00.001-07:002015-04-17T10:25:53.030-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: From An Employee To Full Time Etsy Shop Owner<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/04/from-employee-to-full-time-etsy-shop.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: From An Employee To Full Time Etsy Shop Owner</a>: My Etsy shop, Purse O'nality by Mary , is not quite a full time, but more than just a part time job. I do work many hours in my shop ei...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-23412196416005109202015-04-17T10:21:00.000-07:002015-04-17T10:21:40.334-07:00From An Employee To Full Time Etsy Shop Owner<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My Etsy shop, <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Purse O'nality by Mary</a>, is not quite a full time, but more than just a part time job. I do work many hours in my shop either producing new items, tweaking current listings, taking photos and listing new products. I'm also fortunate that my husband makes enough income that I don't to have to work out of necessity, but only by choice. Currently, I do daycare for my great grandson who lives with us, along with his mother. However, to get to this point, my husband and I had to make lots of sacrifices when we decided to live off of a single income after we were married. Our sacrifices have paid off and now we are living almost debt free and have a nice rainy day fund. The reason for telling you this is because t</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">here are many people on Etsy who dream of quitting their day job and running a full time Etsy online shop. The idea of working from home, being your own boss, going to work in your pajamas, doing something that love to do and making money at it is all very appealing. Who wouldn't like that? I do. Still there is a downside of this as well. Being your boss also means that you have to pay for all of your medical and dental insurances, social security and other government taxes, pay an income to yourself and your employees (if you have any), unemployment insurance, and the list continues if you're the sole income provider. However, some things such as medical and dental insurance coverage might be taken care of if you have another source of income. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Being a full time business owner, online or physical shop, is more than a 40 hour work week that you may already have with day job. Still, there is something to be said about having a full time Etsy shop and successfully living your dream. Therefore I would like to share with you </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">some practical and basic tips for financial independence and for turning a dream of going from an employee to a full time Etsy shop owner into a reality.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. <b>Do a business plan.</b> Some may be asking what is a business plan and is it necessary? A business plan is very necessary if you want to be successful. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's like a road map that provides directions on how to get from here to there and avoid many bumps along the way. In more technical terms, it's a written document that describes the business; has a sales and marketing strategy; contains the financial background and the projected profit and loss statement. It has objectives and goals that guides you and helps to stay you on track. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2.<b> Become financially independent.</b> This one is a little harder, but doable. The reason for this is that you want to be able to have monies available in order to grow your shop. So how do you do this?</span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sell anything</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> you really don't need or you haven't used in over a year. Don't buy anything unless it's absolutely necessary.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><u> </u>Down size your assets. For instance, can you live in a smaller house? Get by on one car? Take public transportation more frequently?</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Begin paying down your debt. This may seem a little overwhelming to some, but it's easier than you might think. Begin with your smallest monthly bill and pay a few dollars more then the minimal payment. For example, if you have a $10.00 payment, pay $15.00 every month until it's paid off. Then begin with your next lowest bill and pay the minimum payment plus the $15.00 that you were paying from the first bill. So if this bill has a minimum monthly payment of $25.00, then pay the $25.00 plus the $15.00 for a total of forty dollars on that bill until it's paid off. Now you have freed up $40.00 to put with the minimum payment of the next lowest bill. Keep doing this until your debt is paid. You will find that you have now freed up all that money to put towards your business.</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Don't forget to put 10%-15% of your freed up money away for starting up your rainy day fund.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. <b>Live off of a single income in a two income family.</b> Now that you have freed up your debt, learn to live off one income. </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This will allow you to take the other income and put toward your business until you have sufficient amount of money to put towards your business. </span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Living off one income will help you get through the harder times when business is slow.</span></li>
</ul>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. <b>Living off a single income family. </b>This requires a little more planning because there isn't a fall back income. In most cases, 2-3 months wages in difficult times in normal circumstances such as a layoff, work related injury or a health issue is perfectly acceptable. However when you are the sole provider and a business owner, you will need more than 2-3 months wages. Every business has yearly down time and downward economic trends. Therefore, you need to plan for <u>at least</u> double the normal acceptable wages.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. <b>Continuing working your online shop.</b> While you are working on getting to your dream of quitting your day job, continue working your shop and on your business plan goals. Review your business plan every couple months and u</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">pdate it at least every year.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6. <b>Say goodbye to your day job.</b> Once you have done these steps, you are now ready to fly solo and live your dream. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Following these steps is not an easy task and can't be done overnight. It takes determination and initiative. There will be setbacks, but staying on task and not being distracted by outside factors will help you achieve your dream. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHSXvodFVND72LePWbkDi4O6JpVFNAW_PfdQex2bdohmoLnF7kkkFM1yPYHoeMSoVPInDygS7A5JvkDarqD3dLhsrSB3lVqaZk0M5QXEUrKUME9X8fJod0QwsJZ8GGcvDhDqKidAKBgw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHSXvodFVND72LePWbkDi4O6JpVFNAW_PfdQex2bdohmoLnF7kkkFM1yPYHoeMSoVPInDygS7A5JvkDarqD3dLhsrSB3lVqaZk0M5QXEUrKUME9X8fJod0QwsJZ8GGcvDhDqKidAKBgw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">source:<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.entrepreneur.com/encyclopedia/business-plan" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Entrepreneur</span></a></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-1139367108526227552015-04-10T10:02:00.001-07:002015-04-10T10:02:07.474-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Let's Talk Etsy and Visit Some Favorite Shops<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/04/lets-talk-etsy-and-visit-some-favorite.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Let's Talk Etsy and Visit Some Favorite Shops</a>: This week I thought it would be interesting to focus my blog on Etsy . It's truly amazing to me that there are so many people who still...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-38550089981141216162015-04-10T10:00:00.000-07:002015-04-10T10:00:15.800-07:00Let's Talk Etsy and Visit Some Favorite Shops<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: black;"></span><span style="font-size: large;">This week I thought it would be interesting to focus my blog on <u><span style="color: blue;">Etsy</span></u>. It's truly amazing to me that there are so many people who still haven't even heard about this wonderful Internet site and it's been around for almost 10 years now. Truth be told, Etsy had been around for about 5-6 years before I even heard about it. It was crochet and knit night at the Purple Iris, our local yarn shop. I was there with my daughter when someone in the group mentioned it. It wasn't until a year or so later when I registered to become a member and then another year before I opened up my shop, <u><span style="color: blue;">Purse O'nality by Mary</span></u>.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Etsy is an e-commerce website that was launched in 2005. It is comprised of handmade and vintage items as well as supplies. The original founders of<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue;"> <span style="color: black;">Etsy</span></span></span> were Robert Kalin, Chris Maguire and Haim Schoppik; however, they all have moved on to other opportunities.<span style="background-color: white;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">Etsy is a marketplace where its heart and soul is the global community. It is </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">comprised of individual shops and buyers searching for something unique. You could think of it as one huge craft fair on the Internet where e</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ach shop, with its own character and appeal through shop banners and photographs, tries </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">enticing shoppers to buy from their shop. The shoppers, on the other hand, have plenty of choices since</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Etsy has something for everyone. In fact as of December 2014, Etsy has currently over 1.4 million sellers and almost 20 million active buyers. There are over 54 million registered users. In my opinion, it's a wonder how people even find my shop!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Etsy differs from EBay and Amazon in that the latter two don't restrict what one can sell. As stated earlier, a viable Etsy shop falls into one of 3 categories: 1) handmade by the shop owner or a member of the shop; 2) vintage items that are at least 20 years or older, and 3) a supply shop. A supply shop has tools to help make something or a basic supply to </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">do the handmade project</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> such as zippers, purse frames, beads, etc. Etsy doesn't allow resellers. In other words, you can't buy a scarf and then turn around and sell it in your shop. Also a shop must disclose everyone who is associated with the shop.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Etsy has some truly wonderful and amazing shops. I thought I would post some of my favorite shops this week and believe me, there are plenty to choose. S</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">o from time to time I'm going to post some of my favorite shops and tell you why I chose them. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some of my favorite shops in no particular order. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. On my list is </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://upstyle.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Upstyle</a>, which is a supply and purse shop. I chose this store for a couple of reasons. I did a blog tutorial with some modifications based on a design that Robin had created and with her permission. I have bought several purse frames and chains from her. She has always given me outstanding customer service and answered any questions I have about her products. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHnQ_-g0tiMxHyiB2qRAVWnc1Q6fxm9rmQ_Ybve-5UX1q55VzOxYp6jN2mbwbO9WKN2R6DkvvH3tdAE9CcvcUz8-P5BdWWB_maK3bkxK1O60Z-ukKMiI75dTyllfEAKImA_FQDbhgUA/s1600/il_570xN.738839753_nr00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJHnQ_-g0tiMxHyiB2qRAVWnc1Q6fxm9rmQ_Ybve-5UX1q55VzOxYp6jN2mbwbO9WKN2R6DkvvH3tdAE9CcvcUz8-P5BdWWB_maK3bkxK1O60Z-ukKMiI75dTyllfEAKImA_FQDbhgUA/s1600/il_570xN.738839753_nr00.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Large Box Clamshell Minaudiere Clutch in Various Chain Lengths $60.00+</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. When I first opened my shop on Etsy, I discovered this wonderful shop. I love to knit and crochet, although sewing has been more my passion. Camille of <a href="http://byCamilleDesigns.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">by Camille Designs</a>, has some wonderful crochet rugs. They all remind me of the doilies my grandmother and mother had decorating their end tables and dresser tops. I believe doilies are truly feminine and now I can have them on my porch, deck, entrance ways and other places throughout my house. However, every time I say I'm going to buy one, I just get overwhelmed at all the choices and can't decide which on I want. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zaUEoaLAJIruDodc6Nkix4GP5CY35Z1yeeKWZJrXJyUBcgPqZ2lb95tx4RiVyiY2SmEOb43DNT1Pdn_jW-rkzK4W41rMX2nb0iK97XQvs86ExoHeDYlres4nb5gkCV_oeZyHDWBi4Q/s1600/il_570xN.329013418.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zaUEoaLAJIruDodc6Nkix4GP5CY35Z1yeeKWZJrXJyUBcgPqZ2lb95tx4RiVyiY2SmEOb43DNT1Pdn_jW-rkzK4W41rMX2nb0iK97XQvs86ExoHeDYlres4nb5gkCV_oeZyHDWBi4Q/s1600/il_570xN.329013418.jpg" height="270" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Turquoise Patio Porch Cord Crochet Rug 35" Round Pineapple Pattern $80.00+ </h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. This next shop is also works with the art of crocheting. It has been only recently that I discovered this shop. I had a jaw dropping moment when I saw her designs. The shop, <a href="http://strawberrycouture.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Strawberry Couture</a>, is owned by Lenore Berry-Zargosa and </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">has ready made items and instant download patterns available in her shop. This is one shop you're not going to want to miss.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoagGJQBQWfrKTM1Sa67kHEy4LVfszLjcI1_LgTEsTUbWjFq8ltSSooCpdsMSgXScqfxivvIPlmwWWyDy2U-pXQO5CrxzTwMJud7ywX3a0UIjxB3TzAz7iAHkPjDuuzGFDXAi9R2mLA/s1600/il_570xN.562472113_f2ws.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMoagGJQBQWfrKTM1Sa67kHEy4LVfszLjcI1_LgTEsTUbWjFq8ltSSooCpdsMSgXScqfxivvIPlmwWWyDy2U-pXQO5CrxzTwMJud7ywX3a0UIjxB3TzAz7iAHkPjDuuzGFDXAi9R2mLA/s1600/il_570xN.562472113_f2ws.jpg" height="320" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Hand Crochet Kentucky Derby Hat $85.00</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> 4. My go to store for whenever I need some zippers is <a href="http://zipit.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Zip It</a>. I was using this store before I even knew it was an Etsy shop. Since I live in a small town it isn't easy to find assorted zippers in various sizes and colors. I have to drive over an hour just to find a good fabric store. So when you consider the cost of gas versus shipping. I don't mind waiting a few days for my zippers. Furthermore Zip It has set up a coupon for all of my readers for 15% off. This coupon is good for the entire year. Just use coupon code: TalkingShopWithMary.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAD5uxvoRo3jYf_V30MYhyphenhyphenQTXUjYH9ElFBJ3Cw85dX615RPGI11T7PFQHSb6KBp-8ZQgyJGl75ps6EVNRbH2h5JnpCwwbgike2OdV3Cv5Gd-jN0PA5bzce7xsC_fg1mY0Y9ra5FfGEw/s1600/il_570xN.191433906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivAD5uxvoRo3jYf_V30MYhyphenhyphenQTXUjYH9ElFBJ3Cw85dX615RPGI11T7PFQHSb6KBp-8ZQgyJGl75ps6EVNRbH2h5JnpCwwbgike2OdV3Cv5Gd-jN0PA5bzce7xsC_fg1mY0Y9ra5FfGEw/s1600/il_570xN.191433906.jpg" height="292" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
9 Inch Brights YKK Sampler Pack of 10 Zippers $5.00</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. I ran across this shop when I was chatting in Etsy's forum a little over a year ago. Her photos are absolutely AMAZING! I can't think of a better name for this shop than <a href="http://countrydreaming.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Country Dreaming</a>. I had tried to set up a meeting with Patty, the owner of Country Dreaming, last summer when I was vacationing with my family. Our schedules didn't match up. I considered it a real opportunity loss. Every time I look at her photos, it sets me dreaming. I keep wanting to purchase something from her shop, but again, I get so overwhelmed by all the choices that I just can't decide. To add to all of that, Patty keeps adding more great photographs which doesn't help in making my choice.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYS7vV_ug4RCSDjcLGBEZk1McYFz6G95xZ0NWD02zve8KmCNpVcDvdhFUsU1aeUbeaVjvmHlUWv7FaWrUp1Cmb966dzRkf8PNj4mVMl4EUYXcdvfjjd28oqao5KmIYz31OzmHIlhYkA/s1600/il_570xN.191268769.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYS7vV_ug4RCSDjcLGBEZk1McYFz6G95xZ0NWD02zve8KmCNpVcDvdhFUsU1aeUbeaVjvmHlUWv7FaWrUp1Cmb966dzRkf8PNj4mVMl4EUYXcdvfjjd28oqao5KmIYz31OzmHIlhYkA/s1600/il_570xN.191268769.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Fall Photography 8 X 10 Reflection of Trees $24.95</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6. This next shop is a truly a family enterprise. <a href="http://oldworldkitchen.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Polder's Old World Market</a> are crafters of gourmet wooden kitchen utensils. Everyone has a role from carving the utensils to packaging to taking care of the technical side of the business. My first encounter with this shop is when they asked for an SEO review from an Etsy team in which I am a team leader. I did the a lot of the review. Since then I have kept track of their shop. It has really taken off since last year and I can see why. There items are truly beautiful works of art. Furthermore, they even have left hand utensils for people like me.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-H2jrJP8IffoeCRFdRQTJVoY7Yz8ypektxn7DKo9AuxKXXa4u6UYXrSHje4h_GiiGnGJ3NDpUA0pVS37OJGhr9lorcwEe8SmgGIYlJAIrrb_08VFg1ycx_FL-piKF8J2YwXCZc91mRQ/s1600/il_570xN.607094976_1770.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-H2jrJP8IffoeCRFdRQTJVoY7Yz8ypektxn7DKo9AuxKXXa4u6UYXrSHje4h_GiiGnGJ3NDpUA0pVS37OJGhr9lorcwEe8SmgGIYlJAIrrb_08VFg1ycx_FL-piKF8J2YwXCZc91mRQ/s1600/il_570xN.607094976_1770.jpg" height="320" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Best All Purpose Wooden Spoon $42.00</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">7. When I needed some tags for my purses, I searched many different shops. Stephanie the owner of </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://TagsToGo.etsy.com/" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Tags To Go</span></a> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">was very helpful and quickly responded to all of my questions. She gave great customer service even when I needed to buy some different type tags from another </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Etsy</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> shop. The only thing one needs to know is that from time to time her shop does go into a "returning customers only" mode. That being said, I didn't have any problems the first time I ordered from her shop.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcYc4kLUxYN5anVFHAwCZV0DomNMEDrxmRjOOIhMwdK-W9TU7CyNVly-PPPMwlDvX71BMVo_g_xfg119NUXCBH4N44pP2jN5suD0FQW1_uCdyA3hALVJ2p8FmNMx7_WBCkYIn7D_dcw/s1600/il_570xN.754772121_hyzr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrcYc4kLUxYN5anVFHAwCZV0DomNMEDrxmRjOOIhMwdK-W9TU7CyNVly-PPPMwlDvX71BMVo_g_xfg119NUXCBH4N44pP2jN5suD0FQW1_uCdyA3hALVJ2p8FmNMx7_WBCkYIn7D_dcw/s1600/il_570xN.754772121_hyzr.jpg" height="279" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
60-1000 Pieces of Precut Folded Custom Clothing Labels $20.00+</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8. My last shop is <a href="http://SEOWebDesign.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">SEO Web Design</a>. Mary, the shop owner, has been instrumental in helping me with my own SEO. She has taught me a lot, and I'm still learning from her. Her success guide book is simple to understand and can be easily put into practice. It also makes a great reference. In addition to this, she does custom web designing and shop banners. If you want to know more about SEO, this is the go to shop for online Etsy success.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJEKMvLm2aCPmEENetelBzOwAIWlfbm2meVfVvbsnNA57B2gUhF29i-kOduA6Yp8_VP25Jb4PPsF49Tg-EoGk8EaLEtyIDhgPcwP3-FlDwU5jb-hzVOruPyUtD5i5BCfdEObrHA-0RA/s1600/il_570xN.741150502_jf35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZJEKMvLm2aCPmEENetelBzOwAIWlfbm2meVfVvbsnNA57B2gUhF29i-kOduA6Yp8_VP25Jb4PPsF49Tg-EoGk8EaLEtyIDhgPcwP3-FlDwU5jb-hzVOruPyUtD5i5BCfdEObrHA-0RA/s1600/il_570xN.741150502_jf35.jpg" height="266" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Etsy Shop SEO Success Guide $14.90</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I stated earlier, Etsy has much to offer. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I hope you will take the time to visit these shops because a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">ll of them are a 10 on my list.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Even you will perhaps find something unique for yourself, a friend or a family member. No doubt, there is something for everyone.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOtErbGf9nrAwprsgQjSfw6W8A7f57uNnyBwZYlNLXL5avdmQwqA9mOQoIoQFhD1zOPusyv9-Rray254rom1OR88i57qBf3zNTlYtNmelLGbk4pxQEFntM4KSxNryjsis2OawRflFXw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoOtErbGf9nrAwprsgQjSfw6W8A7f57uNnyBwZYlNLXL5avdmQwqA9mOQoIoQFhD1zOPusyv9-Rray254rom1OR88i57qBf3zNTlYtNmelLGbk4pxQEFntM4KSxNryjsis2OawRflFXw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Your Mood, Your Style, Your Personality</h3>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-47093465779889021032015-04-03T08:38:00.001-07:002015-04-03T08:38:54.274-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Tutorial: How to Make a Craft Display with Multipl...<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/04/tutorial-how-to-make-craft-display-with_3.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Tutorial: How to Make a Craft Display with Multipl...</a>: In part three of my series on craft fairs, I decided to do a tutorial of my display stand that I designed. I wanted something that I could...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-22075633562917212122015-04-03T08:37:00.000-07:002015-04-03T08:37:28.572-07:00Tutorial: How to Make a Craft Display with Multiple Uses<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In part three of my series on craft fairs, I decided to do a tutorial of my display stand that I designed. I wanted something that I could use in multiple ways. In addition, I wanted to be compactable for my van. There are always so much you need to take when exhibiting at an event. This craft display is great for all of my needs. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5- 2" X 2" boards 8' long</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1- 4' X 8' 1/2 " pegboard</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1- 48" piano hinge, cut to length</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8 door hinges, 2-1/2" in length </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4 door catches </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4' of heavy duty chain (optional)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Plywood (optional)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Chalkboard paint (optional)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">White paint</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">primer</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">16 2-1/4 " wood or dry wall screws </span></span></div>
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<div style="font-size: medium;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8- 4" bolts with wing nuts</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">wood glue</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Tools</b></span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">router</span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">router table</span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">drill </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">jigsaw</span></div>
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<div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">screwdriver or drill bit </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">carpenter's square</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Directions:</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 1: Cutting Boards and Routering Notches</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cut the 2" X 2" router boards to the following specifications.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. 6 boards- 26 1/4" long</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> b. 4 boards- 40" long </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> c. 4 boards- 35" long</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> d. 2 boards- 23 1/4" long</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Router a 1/2" notch down the center of of your 2" X 2" boards, using the following specifications below. Use a router table to guide your boards. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. The 6 boards that are 26 1/4" long: mark 1" from the top and bottom. Router a notch between the marks.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> b. With the 4 boards that are 40" long, measure and mark 4 1/2" from the bottom. Starting at the top router a notch down to the 4 1/2" mark.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> c. With the 2 boards that are 23 1/4" long and the 4 boards that are 35" long: Router from top to bottom.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Cut the pegboard into 4- 2' X 36" sections</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 2: Framing the Pegboard</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. To frame the top part of the stand, place two 26 1/4" boards at the top and the bottom of the pegboard. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Slide the 35" boards to the 3' sides of the pegboard. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. With a carpenters square, square up the corners. Clamp if necessary.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Drill 2 1/4" holes into the top and bottom corners of the frame. Put some glue on both wood pieces. Screw into place and</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> wipe off the glue excess. Repeat for the second craft stand.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. Begin framing the bottom part of the craft stand by sliding the longer edge of the pegboard into the 40" sides. The pegboard should be 1/2" above the side boards. Insert the top board that is 26 1/4" long. Square it up and clamp pieces together. Drill a hole at the top each corner. Again glue both pieces of wood and put them together. Drill screws into place. Wipe off any glue excess. Repeat for the second.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 3: Cutting Plywood and Priming and Painting the Frames</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. Measure the inside of the frame. Cut 2 pieces of 1/4" plywood to fit. Drill four small holes in each corner. Paint plywood with chalkboard paint. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">. With the four frames, prime and paint white or other desired color. (optional)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 4: Putting on the Hardware</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. Cut the piano hinge to fit the frame. Line up the piano hinge in the center and along the edge of the top of the bottom frame. The hinge pin should run along the outside edge and fold downward. Mark each hole. Drill a small hole in each marked spot no longer than the length of the screw. Screw the piano hinge into place. Line up the bottom of the upper frame along the front edge. Mark screw holes and drill. Screw in the screws. Repeat for other craft stand.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. Install 2 door hinges on each of the framed panels following manufacturers instructions.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Install the door catches in place.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. Put the chain on the sides (optional).</span></div>
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<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Part 5: Making and Installing the Feet</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. With a jigsaw, cut 8 boards 2' L x 3" H. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. Find the center and mark for 2 vertical holes about 3/4" apart. Drill holes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Find the center of the bottom legs and lightly mark a straight line 3" up from the bottom. Line up the center of the feet to the center of the legs. Mark holes. Drill through legs.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are some pics of my craft display. Not pictured are the signage with the chalkboard paint and the single standing panel. Will update with those photos at a later date.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixg6S6898BCx-oJqlrSc0ig5FFKqwMn053omfGLye9R5PFNI-3y8dV42Q60JN49Cd6I6Kq1XZWT0CzatkMRs2RACRqWRxl-xOSSWqK0DC5H8GEOP1o5Yi7___bHcwuU3AckuAFtNxtJw/s1600/DSC06054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixg6S6898BCx-oJqlrSc0ig5FFKqwMn053omfGLye9R5PFNI-3y8dV42Q60JN49Cd6I6Kq1XZWT0CzatkMRs2RACRqWRxl-xOSSWqK0DC5H8GEOP1o5Yi7___bHcwuU3AckuAFtNxtJw/s1600/DSC06054.JPG" height="268" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Draw Catch</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWIiYOnecK4bmvzlAEyS-G3ITs0Z3GtAFki9xD-xU9pCc_ef-j8VGVnGTU_4ajb1YtfVEuNNMkUTaW4wp2T2qUo4Zuq3aQ91tPKCR0KXnJpssinTvg9835DCfIiGbNAPt8fEd_68G2A/s1600/DSC06062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFWIiYOnecK4bmvzlAEyS-G3ITs0Z3GtAFki9xD-xU9pCc_ef-j8VGVnGTU_4ajb1YtfVEuNNMkUTaW4wp2T2qUo4Zuq3aQ91tPKCR0KXnJpssinTvg9835DCfIiGbNAPt8fEd_68G2A/s1600/DSC06062.JPG" height="112" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Bottom Feet</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1e_-jljGIFpMhhFGWplpv3GpBNvAS3WsB2Zb7l2fYlCHO96YFEWdsqFY8zjBlZMBArVrZukvTkKz1pyR25DhDN60JP3hpe-RS5t-VqkCyGLW4dVnYkrtt8jTI6YIexn_z-hwRPtdLfA/s1600/DSC06057.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1e_-jljGIFpMhhFGWplpv3GpBNvAS3WsB2Zb7l2fYlCHO96YFEWdsqFY8zjBlZMBArVrZukvTkKz1pyR25DhDN60JP3hpe-RS5t-VqkCyGLW4dVnYkrtt8jTI6YIexn_z-hwRPtdLfA/s1600/DSC06057.JPG" height="400" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Single Panel Folded in Half</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzfYD31_F0DoLrLDUHibIjnLYZ7pBWIPbbWRxuGfHuKewMIqF6uLx5pMcGG9SOTcg22met6b6JGc60Mgh2DHlSNXmVKPd1sQvHUN1eyB7xyBmNLkYTt4Yuv8QO_On3CkXALpNJI387A/s1600/DSC06059.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzfYD31_F0DoLrLDUHibIjnLYZ7pBWIPbbWRxuGfHuKewMIqF6uLx5pMcGG9SOTcg22met6b6JGc60Mgh2DHlSNXmVKPd1sQvHUN1eyB7xyBmNLkYTt4Yuv8QO_On3CkXALpNJI387A/s1600/DSC06059.JPG" height="400" width="248" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Both Panels Hinged Together</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByHH8NbWdNNAno0jpaz-1e3I8RWhUWHut_A_0_MqnrP72TU61i5jDQe4a8ImKhn_HrTLCJKQT6VYPSnx7wvKvL6NdrEARWTJjpdXZSHzlNxYIJ8qHUhDzpKVjQ2fH34EncjKqlTNbiA/s1600/DSC06060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgByHH8NbWdNNAno0jpaz-1e3I8RWhUWHut_A_0_MqnrP72TU61i5jDQe4a8ImKhn_HrTLCJKQT6VYPSnx7wvKvL6NdrEARWTJjpdXZSHzlNxYIJ8qHUhDzpKVjQ2fH34EncjKqlTNbiA/s1600/DSC06060.JPG" height="400" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Other Side of Hinged Panels</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I plan to exhibit at a few outdoor events this summer. This display stand will really come in handy for all my scarves and purses. If you're unable to attend one of my events, remember you can always shop online at my store <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Purse O'nality by Mary</a>.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUOKk8rBGJwptf-1bD3YSnPndTona_6Iz9mkHpdZ6_gMAFKGKNgIqZAUbfWapifLidRnoDJGlA7HoXro8UvGr7n1wduzTuOoEpBkCbTVLjqgqc4GFjvC2AZBIdN76ANSDijzezT2OtA/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJUOKk8rBGJwptf-1bD3YSnPndTona_6Iz9mkHpdZ6_gMAFKGKNgIqZAUbfWapifLidRnoDJGlA7HoXro8UvGr7n1wduzTuOoEpBkCbTVLjqgqc4GFjvC2AZBIdN76ANSDijzezT2OtA/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-77938252460799850602015-03-27T10:44:00.001-07:002015-03-27T10:44:22.846-07:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Craft Fairs: Planning for the Event<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/03/craft-fairs-planning-for-event.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Craft Fairs: Planning for the Event</a>: Now you've signed up for your first craft fair and your application has been approved. Now what? Your best course of action is to do som...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-16824125175704487682015-03-27T10:37:00.000-07:002015-03-27T10:38:49.658-07:00Craft Fairs: Planning for the Event<span style="font-size: large;">Now you've signed up for your first craft fair and your application has been approved. Now what? Your best course of action is to do some planning months ahead of the event.</span><br />
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">At least four months before the event</span></b></u><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If this is an outdoor event, you will want to purchase a outdoor craft canopy tent. Start doing some research online and also talk with exhibitors about their experiences doing an outdoor event. When you have collected enough research, purchase your tent well in advance of the event.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">When the tent arrives, learn how to put it up right away and take it down. However, you may want to keep it up a couple of days especially if there is some wind. It's better to have some experience with stabilizing the canopy tent ahead of time when dealing with the wind. No one wants a disaster with blown over tent and their exhibit scattered on the day of the event. Being prepared for Mother Nature is in your best interest.</span><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>At least 3 months before the event</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Figure out your booth design. Again, do some research. Look at Internet images of craft booths to help you design your booth. Then decide what props you will need such as tables, lamps, shelving, grids, signage, etc. Do you need to make or buy any of these things? Purchase and make what you need. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>At least 1 month before the event</u></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">After you have made and purchased the necessary props for your booth, find somewhere to set up your booth (preferably inside), and take some masking tape and mark out the booth space perimeter. Arrange your exhibit and if possible leave it up for a few days so you have time to view it and make adjustments. Get opinions from family and friends.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">If you have a tent and it can be set up indoors, then do that. This would be a good opportunity to review how to set up and take the tent down. Arrange your exhibit within the booth. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">After you are satisfied with the results, take pictures of everything and where it is placed. This will be a big help you when you're setting up your booth not to mention faster set up result. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>At least 2 weeks before the event</u></b> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy items such as portable totes, price tags, shopping bags, boxes, etc</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>At least 1 week before the event</u></b> </span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Make a checklist of items you will need for setting up and taking down for the event, and during the event. Purchase any last minute items for the event. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Two days before the event</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Pack vehicle and take more photos of where things should go. Set up is usually the evening before the event. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>The evening before the event</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Unpack everything and begin setting up your booth. Take notes on what things you may have forgotten to bring or may need to complete the task. You may be able to buy those things before the event begins if you live too far away and aren't able to come home for the night. If not, take notes for the next event.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>The day of the even</b>t</u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>ENJOY AND HAVE FUN</i>! Look busy so bring something with you to work on in your spare time. People are naturally curious and like to see what you're doing. This is an opportunity for a sale. Also in your spare time, take notes as the day goes on. These notes you can use to access your success. Also take pictures of your booth at the event so you can start a portfolio. The visual effects will help you when you want to change things around, buy or replace a prop. Taking photos of other booths or ideas from other exhibits that appeal to you is also ways to help you improve your booth.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>After the event</u></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Take down and repack the vehicle. Then in the next few days do an assessment from the beginning of the planning stages to the end. For example: What changes need to be made? What sold really well? What is my current inventory? What items need to be increased in my inventory? What can I do to make my booth more visible?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The assessment will help you with becoming more successful for your next event.Your first craft event can be a rewarding experience in more ways the just monetary. As you become more familiar with the craft event experience as an exhibitor, the comfortable and easier the process of exhibiting becomes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Denise Michele, Etsy team captain of <span class="Apple-style-span"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/teams/8070/craft-fairs-its-a-living/discuss/15922297/page/1?ref=team_page" style="color: blue;" target="_blank">Craft Fairs. . . it's a living</a>,</span> came up with a list of "must haves"</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> for successful event.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;">TOP 20 LIST OF MUST HAVE ITEMS AT A CRAFT FAIR<br />
Craft fair info<br />
1. Inventory<br />
2. Change<br />
3. Business Cards<br />
4. Mailing List Sign Up Sheet<br />
5. Weights for your canopy<br />
6. Food/ Water/ Snacks<br />
7. Business license and seller’s permit<br />
8. Emergency kit (aspirin and band aids)<br />
9. Credit Card Machine/ Swiper/ Card Reader/ Ipad/ Cellphone<br />
10. Receipt book<br />
11. Extra clothes (sweaters/ gloves/ comfy shoes)<br />
12. Bags/ Boxes<br />
13. Cash Apron/ Fanny Pack (NO CASH BOXES). Keep your cash ON YOU!<br />
14. A helper if you can. It's nice to have someone to watch your table if you have to go to the bathroom!<br />
15. Pens/ Notepads/ Tape/ Binder Clips/ String/ Calculator<br />
16. Press Clippings/ Signs<br />
17. Displays<br />
18. Camera<br />
19. Rolling Carts and boxes to unload and load your car<br />
20. Extra craft supplies to make repairs if needed.
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This checklist is only a guide and it may have to be amended to your needs. There are other items you may also want or require such as lighting and extension cords, tablecloths, duct tape, etc.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I stated earlier, craft fairs are a fun and rewarding experience and with these basic tips, you can be assured that you are on your way to a successful experience. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgd2I2kiixcQP6XPTTazaRvKyy3H-HqJmeHzn39Q979nEOw53MgbWaGdk-kg6V-gixgAnys-izHThEEUphfjBKJ7sWprwDHe-FLOGwbqpebO9AW7S-XFdR0VUMBKrutqK2kPbFgPDvw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgd2I2kiixcQP6XPTTazaRvKyy3H-HqJmeHzn39Q979nEOw53MgbWaGdk-kg6V-gixgAnys-izHThEEUphfjBKJ7sWprwDHe-FLOGwbqpebO9AW7S-XFdR0VUMBKrutqK2kPbFgPDvw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-34069971495031090342015-03-18T18:06:00.002-07:002015-03-20T07:21:45.971-07:00Craft Fairs: Nonjuried or Juried<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As the weather gets nice, more and more people like to get outside and go places. One place many like to attend is a craft fair. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The craft fair season begins as the weather gets nicer and continues through the holiday season where it peaks before coming to a lull. Craft shows can be a great way to get you business name out there. However, you must be prepared well in advance by doing some market research, filling out applications and sending in your fees. If you never have been to a craft event as an exhibitor and may be thinking about doing one, then there is some things you need to know beforehand. So for the next couple of blogs, I thought</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> some basic insight into types of craft fairs and some useful tips for a being successful exhibitor such as what to bring, display tips and ideas and a diy craft display tutorial would be beneficial to first time exhibitors. Today, I will concentrate on types of craft fairs.</span><br />
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<u><span style="font-size: large;">Types of Craft Fairs</span></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There are basically 2 types of craft fairs: non-juried and juried. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You must apply with both types of craft fairs and pay an entry fee at the time of application. The fee is usually anywhere between $20.00 up to as much as $3500, depending of which type of event and how well established event is. All craft fairs have application deadlines, but some organizers may take last minute entries if there are spots available. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Non-juried</i> craft fairs are usually the easiest to get in and the cheapest. This may be an economical and great place to start vending if this is your first time as an exhibitor. However, your success depends on many variables. Usually non-juried events tend to be church or school related, fund raising events or even local community groups. In addition, t</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">he promoters accept venders on a first come-first serve basis. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There isn't any selection committee there</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">fore there could lots of venders have</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> the same type of items that you may be selling as well as dealers of nonhandmade items. Advertising is also a concern as well as who is doing the orgainizing and promoting of the event. Some things to consider and ask the promoter of the event are the following:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. How many years have the craft fair been held?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. How many exhibitors do you allow?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. What types of past exhibits that have been in this show that are regulars?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. How well is the show advertised and where do you advertise?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. How long have you been organizing and promoting the event?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If the promoter is well organized and can give good answers to all of your questions about the event, the results should positive and lucrative for all exhibitors. The key factor here is <b>organization</b>. One of best and probably the most important things you can do even before you apply for the event is to attend it as an observer. Take notes, find out who organizes it and ask vendors questions about the event. Then find out if the organizers do other events throughout the year. Most likely if the orgainzers do well at this event, there is a good chance that the other events will be equally as good and you can participate in the next one.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A<i> juried </i>event is usually a larger fair and made up of various artisans. It is highly competitive and always involves</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a selection committee. A good juried event will only allow a certain amount of exhibits and only the best of each area. This committee decides who gets to exhibit depending on the portfolio that is summited at the time the application and fee are sent. The portfolio usually includes photos of your products and possibly booth appearance. When summiting photos, make sure they show orginality, craftmanship and uniqueness. Photos of your booth should demonstrate the design layout and presentation of products. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Also note that the application fee is usually higher and that fee depends on the size of the booth space, the number of attendees, and the duration of the event. That being said, the profit margins should also be higher. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It should also be noted that if you're accepted, that you still have to provide your own tables, carpets, lighting and chairs. The only requirement for the organizers is the space for the booth and perhaps the backdrops.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You may wonder if the higher fee is worth it. In one perspective the large crowds will do a couple of positive things for your business.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. Larger crowds means there is a greater chance that your bank account will substancially increase.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. There is potential for plenty of exposure for your business. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So with this in mind, the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">old adage, "you get what you pay for" has considerable meaning. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Whether you decide to do a nonjuried or juried event, or even that one is better than another, the key is to be well prepared; do your research ahead of time, and choose your shows wisely. Make sure the event is suited to what you are exhibiting. Most of all have fun. Craft shows can be a very rewarding experience. </span><br />
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Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-18498741620152394972015-03-06T07:24:00.001-08:002015-03-06T07:24:48.873-08:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Ginger Grey Soaps on Etsy<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/03/ginger-grey-soaps-on-etsy.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Ginger Grey Soaps on Etsy</a>: As I said in last week's blog , trying to operate an online business takes dedication and hard work. However, trying to be successful...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-78450385039512308552015-03-06T07:22:00.000-08:002015-03-06T10:48:05.776-08:00Ginger Grey Soaps on Etsy<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> As I said in last week's <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/02/tips-on-starting-online-business.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">blog</span></a>, trying to </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">operate an online business takes dedication and hard work. However, trying to be successful with young children in the home is even more difficult. I know this. My husband and I were empty nesters with our 3 </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">children grown. Then about a year ago, our granddaughter came to live with us. She is a teen mom with a 21 month old son, Tristan. We are now helping her raise her son. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4flS_THq7GnhDQX9bEbB8eOZPAQnKsXONyIrR2PUDFwyrLgrOl6LLmhPoJxYHULNlnn6Sh_qBNWj412HsasCRjGDQdho2bS5o53z4HdMvKBSUHmKSp14oblHLEBx4O94Hii5afi0Iw/s1600/Photo+on+2014-07-05+at+19.58+%232.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN4flS_THq7GnhDQX9bEbB8eOZPAQnKsXONyIrR2PUDFwyrLgrOl6LLmhPoJxYHULNlnn6Sh_qBNWj412HsasCRjGDQdho2bS5o53z4HdMvKBSUHmKSp14oblHLEBx4O94Hii5afi0Iw/s1600/Photo+on+2014-07-05+at+19.58+%232.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Tristan</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Just recently I had to take over the daycare because he was kicked out of daycare due to biting the other children. Now I'm trying to run my Etsy shop in between naps and at night time. I can't imagine doing this with 5 young children. However, Melissa can. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1myMzJDpA3qUSZnUlf4yiUnYUQco-csGykusGXd5e4u9Lv9PVvpYGLWjsMHnc6WE5BAX0AURRYRuWP1JskCADUPzV6H4LgX4vnU7Nml8h72VDjKJ8fOORMDWN7HQpXsZZlb6P0vFXA/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55891819_kwe4af7z99sogskg0k80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz1myMzJDpA3qUSZnUlf4yiUnYUQco-csGykusGXd5e4u9Lv9PVvpYGLWjsMHnc6WE5BAX0AURRYRuWP1JskCADUPzV6H4LgX4vnU7Nml8h72VDjKJ8fOORMDWN7HQpXsZZlb6P0vFXA/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55891819_kwe4af7z99sogskg0k80.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Back row: Camden, Melissa, Anya, Owen, and Andy</span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Front row: Hayleigh and Preston</span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Melissa is a stay-at-home-mom with 5 children and another one the way. She home schools her children AND she has 2 Etsy shops. She started her first shop <a href="http://www.HappyHomestead.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;">Happy Homestead</a> in 2008, and was quite successful. However, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">her focus changed with the birth of her second daughter, Anya. Her daughter developed horrible rashes and dry skin from the "store bought" baby products that Melissa was using. Melissa decided to to some research on the so-called "gentle" baby products. She was astounded to learn what the industry deemed as safe for a newborn's delicate skin.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> After some more research, she decided to make her own homemade soaps for her family. Before long, she was making lotions, toothpaste and shampoos for a more healthy lifestyle for her family. Melissa discovered that she really liked making high quality soaps for her family. She wanted to see if others outside her friends and family would like them as well. This led to opening her second shop,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> <a href="http://GingerGreySoaps.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;">Ginger Grey Soaps</a>. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This week, Melissa celebrated her 2nd "Etsyversary". Her shop has done quite well with over 1200 sales.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmWrJpGy_-ZZUqWHLAloOeRtu9j_7ic4Jj3FeM2BajUm6URVxLSxsVGlrNLdSfNua34p1kOUFzx1dz3CKqwc6MQYF9Isef2SU5sQFLO8IVNQBhyAXGv5Mk_y11cfBQMfzGs_YHR8zPFw/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55891899_gnnibesic1cs8kc4owk8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmWrJpGy_-ZZUqWHLAloOeRtu9j_7ic4Jj3FeM2BajUm6URVxLSxsVGlrNLdSfNua34p1kOUFzx1dz3CKqwc6MQYF9Isef2SU5sQFLO8IVNQBhyAXGv5Mk_y11cfBQMfzGs_YHR8zPFw/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55891899_gnnibesic1cs8kc4owk8.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Almond Biscotti Soap $6.00</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With 5 young children ranging in age from 9 to 13 months , one has to wonder how she manages everything between her family life and business. I asked her what's the key to your success? "</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Well", Melissa says, "The reason I can do all of that is because I don't. The kids help with the chores around the house and even with the soaps. Even our oldest daughter, Hayleigh, likes to put labels on the backs of our mini soaps. She likes to help with EVERYTHING!!! . . .two year old Ayna . . . likes to try and help with labels too. The older boys, Camden, age <i>(sic)</i> 9, and Preston age <i>(sic)</i> 8, help with a lot. Owen (13 months) helps with being super cute."</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Melissa says that even though her family always comes before her business,</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> she has always had an inner drive to keep pushing herself. She loves to explore the extent of her capabilities, which means she is continually learning and growing. Everything Melissa learned has been self taught, which can be difficult, but rewarding at the same time. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyTd0s3u74SH1kNt_NW5KRVAtpbX_sWW6WKylBG3zpeOl7hAcsoVV78a8DpILw98e7gqxbefgn38B5uAFJZW4mDMHE8OTECJC40hODnYt2ZHuIAc6dSQemAhFrs0ROH28wQd6Ax2d0w/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55881682_ngoal6ewzc0k0w08c4ko.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyTd0s3u74SH1kNt_NW5KRVAtpbX_sWW6WKylBG3zpeOl7hAcsoVV78a8DpILw98e7gqxbefgn38B5uAFJZW4mDMHE8OTECJC40hODnYt2ZHuIAc6dSQemAhFrs0ROH28wQd6Ax2d0w/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55881682_ngoal6ewzc0k0w08c4ko.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Hawaiian Plumeria Soap $6.00</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Since the opening of Ginger Grey Soaps, Melissa has been constantly trying new soap techniques, improving soap recipes, working on branding and labeling designs, and making overall improvements to her Etsy shop. Her dream is that one day Ginger Grey Soaps will be a full time family business.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTGmMjZ0piJBCjRq3p8LVx4ElFduEcVujBXy9yG07JGXQrz70FWktVIO3wzOnxA3Ln7CbF3e5jXGL8rLfCWGn5sdGkd0gp6tUQUq4onDkBgSyfjLNSKlXY8u6GZq9iBlVL2wmCaQrgg/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55882028_j5xx1zfvc88o08kg4skw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMTGmMjZ0piJBCjRq3p8LVx4ElFduEcVujBXy9yG07JGXQrz70FWktVIO3wzOnxA3Ln7CbF3e5jXGL8rLfCWGn5sdGkd0gp6tUQUq4onDkBgSyfjLNSKlXY8u6GZq9iBlVL2wmCaQrgg/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55882028_j5xx1zfvc88o08kg4skw.jpg" height="200" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Assorted Soaps</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Melissa uses only high quality base ingredients with luxurious additives such as rich Shea butter, poppy seeds. sea salt, and ground almonds. These soaps have rich colors and wonderful fragrances. However, I'm sure that if someone is sensitive to fragrances, a fragrance free product can be custom ordered. You can also find Melissa's shop through her</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/gingergreysoaps"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Facebook Page</span></a>, <a href="http://gingergreysoaps.blogspot.com/" style="color: blue;">shop blog</a>, and on her <a href="http://youtube.com/gingergreysoaps" style="color: blue;">You Tube channel</a>.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BoxeLviYFhpY7xLR-x6_7s0qDTttYjD7dFKYpYGO7zO0gFveItNFBsYOISfiTE3nz_Sr-mDt7P3R7pP5mVarLwezqAgIeqL-oUpZA4jvnW-s0DW9TemnXLTRFK6PkqlYq-pb9U8D-A/s1600/il_570xN.715439971_cbgg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6BoxeLviYFhpY7xLR-x6_7s0qDTttYjD7dFKYpYGO7zO0gFveItNFBsYOISfiTE3nz_Sr-mDt7P3R7pP5mVarLwezqAgIeqL-oUpZA4jvnW-s0DW9TemnXLTRFK6PkqlYq-pb9U8D-A/s1600/il_570xN.715439971_cbgg.jpg" height="157" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Men's Beer Soap Set $ 17.00</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Soap and soap products is something that everyone needs. So i</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">f you're looking for something special, don't forget that </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Ginger Grey Soaps makes personalized gifts and soon her wedding favors will be back up for sale. So keep on the watch for those items. In addition, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm sure Melissa's shop will have a special fragrance that will become your all time favorite, but you will never know unless you visit her Etsy shop. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtpuDPs8gNUzCHALCq7_dZrpVEZ4JJK3SrkblR_iziplQr8HTIWHScE3Yuwxb_hO6EfaZwtYlk5S6H3tgvnrSoMGvx0Qhljf0DFdCWGW7MOgMcJC2mp9iY89EeNgiv2xsi7HkvRxtxg/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55892089_rth0i5nmtrko44ok0gog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdtpuDPs8gNUzCHALCq7_dZrpVEZ4JJK3SrkblR_iziplQr8HTIWHScE3Yuwxb_hO6EfaZwtYlk5S6H3tgvnrSoMGvx0Qhljf0DFdCWGW7MOgMcJC2mp9iY89EeNgiv2xsi7HkvRxtxg/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55892089_rth0i5nmtrko44ok0gog.jpg" height="246" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A Soap Sample Pack for Women $3.00 - $6.00</span></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">While your checking out Melissa's shop and adding a few items in your cart, don't forget to visit my shop, <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;">Purse O'nality by Mary</a> and see what new things are in the shop. Wedding and prom season is upon us and now is the time to get that unique clutch purse. Whether it's for yourself, your bridesmaids, mother of the bride or groom, there is plenty to choose from. I also do custom orders. Just contact me (It's on the left hand side of the home page.) and let me know what you seeking. I would be happy to work with you. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHUuN_DmQcfahLC_7WF25Zfi7LZ_Qlla8XLa9Q2Rv7NHLrvvNxMP2FtuVoXDKaGF18v2Rhb13uZXnVlSFJ7C2Me4Nk8dOU2lW-6Ci9f3RDafYc9GfE4B6kmaXuDW_qZ8TToGH3qUideg/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHUuN_DmQcfahLC_7WF25Zfi7LZ_Qlla8XLa9Q2Rv7NHLrvvNxMP2FtuVoXDKaGF18v2Rhb13uZXnVlSFJ7C2Me4Nk8dOU2lW-6Ci9f3RDafYc9GfE4B6kmaXuDW_qZ8TToGH3qUideg/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-38104301309291531542015-02-27T06:08:00.001-08:002015-02-27T06:08:15.486-08:00Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Tips on Starting an Online Business.<a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/02/tips-on-starting-online-business.html?spref=bl">Talking Shop with Mary: Handmade Purses and Bags: Tips on Starting an Online Business.</a>: Starting an online business seems easy, right? All you have to do is build a web page or find a host site that will let you begin your busin...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-88898641481951550092015-02-27T06:05:00.000-08:002015-02-27T06:05:19.095-08:00Tips on Starting an Online Business.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Starting an online business seems easy, right? All you have to do is build a web page or find a host site that will let you begin your business for a small fee. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Well, starting an online business, whether it's a hobby or something bigger, takes much planning, research and hard work to make it successful. Here are 8 great tips for being successful.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. <b>You must evaluate your business idea</b> - Do your homework and see if your <a href="http://smallbusinessbc.ca/article/how-evaluate-your-business-idea/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">business idea</span></a> is viable.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. <b>Write a business plan</b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> </span>- A <a href="http://articles.bplans.com/what-is-a-business-plan/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">business plan</span></a> is your road map to success. It's a guide that outlines your goals and details and how you are going to achieve them.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. <b>Research host sites</b> - There are plenty of <a href="http://www.consumer-rankings.com/hosting/?vn=default&a=148&c=2968&s1=108359466.108483928&ls=g&gclid=Cj0KEQiApbunBRDs0fba3dz484cBEiQAMsx-p5Ssav29KLMSm2xU9-FD9n_SjyU00ZyU7KqxGfOiklMaAhqD8P8HAQ"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">host sites</span></a> to choose from. Some have a small monthly fee while others such as<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Etsy</span></a> </span></span>are free but have other requirements for selling. Some facts to consider are: 1) Does the host site have good customer service when problems arise? 2) What type of traffic does it generate? 3) Can you get you own domain name? 4) What type of security can they guarantee? 5) Is it easy to build your site and for potential customers to get around within the site? 6) What other features does it include? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Whatever you decide make sure fit you needs.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4.<b> Research SEO</b> - SEO refers to Search Engine Optimization. It how people on the Internet find your online shop. There are some great sites on the the Internet that will help you with this. <a href="http://www.wordtracker.com/academy" style="color: blue;">Wordtracker Academy</a> is one such site. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. <b>Learn about keywords / keyword phrases</b> - Keywords are essential to a successful online business. They are the words that people put in the search bar of the big search engines such as Google, Bing and Yahoo to find information. One great source of keyword information is Google Adwords Keyword Planner. Learning how to use this <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.blogspot.com/2015/02/improving-your-seo-with-google-adwords.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">tool</span></a> is a great advantage towards building a successful online business.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6.<b> Promote</b> - There are many ways to promote you business in the form of paid advertising, blogging or through<a href="http://www.ebizmba.com/articles/social-networking-websites"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">social media sites</span></a>. There are pros and cons to either way. Paid advertising doesn't guarantee sales, but it will give your business exposure. There are a couple of things to consider. 1) What is your budget? 2) How can this exposure generate into sales and increase your business? In the end, you will have to access whether paid advertising is worth its price.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Another form of promoting your business is through <a href="https://sitevalley.com/blog/blogging-as-a-powerful-social-media-promotion-tool/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">blogging</span></a>. You can start your own blog or try to get featured on an established blog with lots of followers. Starting a blog from scratch will take time to establish, but you decide on the content. Whereas an established blog may be harder to get a review if you're a newer online business without many sales. One option to consider is that some established blogs also have paid advertising within their site. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Social media sites such as <a href="http://www.hongkiat.com/blog/top-social-media-sites-how-you-can-benefit-from-them/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter</span></a> can be a great way to get your business noticed, but you'll have to put some time into it in order to make it work. Social media is an additional expense in your time and may take away from doing shop improvements in the beginning. However if your time can be equally balanced between your shop and your social media site(s), it may be pay off in the long run. In the beginning it might be best if you limit you social media sites to just one or two so you can become familiar with them. You also don't want to spread yourself so thin that you don't have time to work the other parts of the business. There is always the option on adding more social media sites as your business grows.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">7. <b>Build backlinks</b> - There are two types of <a href="http://www.wordtracker.com/academy/link-building"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">backlinks</span></a>: internal and external. Internal backlinks are links that go from one page in your site to another page. External links are links that go from one Internet site to another. It's the external links that your want to build. The more external links you have the higher you will rank within the pages of the search engines. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8. <b>Analyze your data</b> - Analyzing your data with tools like </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.google.com/analytics/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Google Analytics</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> will help you </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">make an visual assessment so you can make</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> changes as needed in your business. It can build your business by knowing: 1) who is your target market; 2) how to track that market and 3) how that target market interacts within the pages of your business.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Starting an online business can be a very rewarding opportunity. However, it does take determination, goal planning, and plenty of insight. A successful business is always a work in progress. When I started my Etsy online shop, <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Purse O'nality by Mary</span></a>, I did abundant amount of research. I watched videos about pricing; read about how to take good pictures and make a great listing. Still, there was much to learn after I opened my shop. However if you implement these tips, I guarantee that your online business will be off to a good start. Just make sure you enjoy what you do and have fun along the way.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO3lI6ZXBGIC9LEDj2E-92Cg-ZAe96NLkPkQKH42wsNuPKnnHy-7Cfd5QslKrNdJNZVYxU3ooi9hDbj2befTQrPsdlyLo3ScqdpLMRhC2Qfdm5AcRU3LNiJMCC5VKRUNo25wzDlzQk6w/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO3lI6ZXBGIC9LEDj2E-92Cg-ZAe96NLkPkQKH42wsNuPKnnHy-7Cfd5QslKrNdJNZVYxU3ooi9hDbj2befTQrPsdlyLo3ScqdpLMRhC2Qfdm5AcRU3LNiJMCC5VKRUNo25wzDlzQk6w/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Your Mood, Your Style, Your Personality</h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-63130214105170943252015-02-20T05:05:00.000-08:002015-02-20T05:05:42.155-08:00"There's No Place Like Home"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinaO_9RGVDLS-bV6Atrvlfo2cfNxeBeJb5DxbgITfCIFnh-wLFoXpqUpZZ1EiXjJQzKXH55LwmMqPZsEbppX_WXE7Ig9509gpIMrY-Cvh1YPd0Ryy0JBxn3WuQ3rIO0FEaXHw932vMag/s1600/iusb_760x100.14681156_1zb5.jpg" height="52" width="400" /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Although I wasn't born in a rural setting, I currently live in farm country. The one thing I notice about farmers is that farming runs through their veins. It's like they can't help themselves. They're passionate about the farm life. I also believe this is true about crafters. They're always designing, creating and improving something. Sue, from Wisconsin Rapids, is one of these people and my feature Etsy shop this week. <a href="http://SuesAkornShop.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;">Sue's Akorn Shop</a> is the place to go for some great kitchen and bath towels, aprons, mercury glass and other types of home decor. Here's a recent interview I had with Sue.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary: </b>What made you decide to open an Etsy shop?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue:</b> I have</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> been crafting all of my life. I made crocheted afghans, penny rugs, cross stitch items, fleece blankets, tutus just to name a few. Many of these items I gave away to friends and family, and the recipients commented on how nice they were and how much they liked them. So I decided, after much encouragement from my daughter, to</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> open an Etsy shop where I could give others the pleasure of owning these wonderful items as well. I also wanted to try my hand at selling.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary: </b>How long ago did you open your shop and how did you decide on a business name?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue: </b>I opened my shop</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> in May of 2013. At the time I opened my shop, my father-in-law had passed away. My shop helped me get through the loss. My daughter suggested that I name my shop in his memory.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary: </b>Would you please be more specific?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue:</b> My father-in-law's name was Allen Koran and he always registered his car license plate as AKORN3. Hence, Sue's Akorn Shop</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>In Sue's shop you will find a variety of holiday themed hand towels. </i></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4aYfTkLx1Tv8Ts4qq6UBCGDeftm1WQc7BjwLkQcucSouVw_RMerBxodedsqfGn4UURCGJUa-6BUE-i5l2I-sJNz8xeqc1AOXFSD0y0kSkAe9faf9qiguOwtH_PWVyTClhqMpSl73avQ/s1600/il_570xN.722370052_fti5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4aYfTkLx1Tv8Ts4qq6UBCGDeftm1WQc7BjwLkQcucSouVw_RMerBxodedsqfGn4UURCGJUa-6BUE-i5l2I-sJNz8xeqc1AOXFSD0y0kSkAe9faf9qiguOwtH_PWVyTClhqMpSl73avQ/s1600/il_570xN.722370052_fti5.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></td></tr>
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Shamrock Kitchen Towel $8.00</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQvYQDCI3AoV_HlIFCZNW708nQ2yTChEtgDAoqA8y00J39q5NbHPhxRMmQ0gbhP9FvEdPuCXrrTB200oL8p35d7D4J3_maGLzfOvs_6ItxCtgYuHh5r1V5dPMVFjq2KJ0IT5fhoHpOQ/s1600/il_570xN.580286378_qei3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiQvYQDCI3AoV_HlIFCZNW708nQ2yTChEtgDAoqA8y00J39q5NbHPhxRMmQ0gbhP9FvEdPuCXrrTB200oL8p35d7D4J3_maGLzfOvs_6ItxCtgYuHh5r1V5dPMVFjq2KJ0IT5fhoHpOQ/s1600/il_570xN.580286378_qei3.jpg" height="320" width="269" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Hippity Hoppity Kitchen Hand Towel $8.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; font-size: medium; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEWcExxKT7Y2viiDv4VjbXe0sWVCMR0kXUUeIk8MSktcz9bau9Q5bTPtKcZGhPba0jZs06nRSi-uolvaq0DqQp9riR3w2VvEFSeRKmRG3Eb8YwGoaP0DFzALp1atseRkj38NcZZzcaA/s1600/il_570xN.658080803_8c5z.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjEWcExxKT7Y2viiDv4VjbXe0sWVCMR0kXUUeIk8MSktcz9bau9Q5bTPtKcZGhPba0jZs06nRSi-uolvaq0DqQp9riR3w2VvEFSeRKmRG3Eb8YwGoaP0DFzALp1atseRkj38NcZZzcaA/s1600/il_570xN.658080803_8c5z.jpg" height="320" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Pumpkin Tie On Tea Towel $7.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmtQ2Xza6p6vebfa5kZ1bc9NZ7zbpH7z9G0ERoW459Wusr5Zt7oonOQ8BCmgFWHAV3IhxL8ppX_AFUBO_LQx25k6amKumBypCqJBDy5zcgpwp5gryjj82MYIZssCAIwv_wh8rzhgdhw/s1600/il_570xN.619062839_l3zf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCmtQ2Xza6p6vebfa5kZ1bc9NZ7zbpH7z9G0ERoW459Wusr5Zt7oonOQ8BCmgFWHAV3IhxL8ppX_AFUBO_LQx25k6amKumBypCqJBDy5zcgpwp5gryjj82MYIZssCAIwv_wh8rzhgdhw/s1600/il_570xN.619062839_l3zf.jpg" height="320" width="246" /></a> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Patriotic Flour Sack Dish Towel $8.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><b>Mary:</b> Can you tell me a little about your creative process?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue:</b> When I'm out and about, I'm always searching for new tow</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">els, fabrics and materials. I like to integrate them into my designs. I like to fashion something practical or pretty to add to my shop.</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3tsJ7Wo8ltR06JovPpy3nwZqzuVz3fUuPmnD7XV9vqqwy0ryPB3ckc8uVusD_fukzujwB_ZQ6qGXIZ49kzNztNO4Z23lgf0W5huGu3uWOYzDamQVMilRgJKKshR4-13ZA1CMi84FPQ/s1600/il_570xN.727650061_a2d4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3tsJ7Wo8ltR06JovPpy3nwZqzuVz3fUuPmnD7XV9vqqwy0ryPB3ckc8uVusD_fukzujwB_ZQ6qGXIZ49kzNztNO4Z23lgf0W5huGu3uWOYzDamQVMilRgJKKshR4-13ZA1CMi84FPQ/s1600/il_570xN.727650061_a2d4.jpg" height="320" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Red Plaid Half Apron $14.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpMD4rOJ7OsLmancJ9zzWrmjDBNpcmYHFwc0-R7TOre9oMRvQBEE4ax-xx3QSzteRrvRA-YvAqxuZXXOzXItZDCVTJ6GIFJM3vRcP8X8AAao0-t7AYnNEJsQRwQllSiD3uDWBsevoqg/s1600/il_570xN.723069976_pc41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVpMD4rOJ7OsLmancJ9zzWrmjDBNpcmYHFwc0-R7TOre9oMRvQBEE4ax-xx3QSzteRrvRA-YvAqxuZXXOzXItZDCVTJ6GIFJM3vRcP8X8AAao0-t7AYnNEJsQRwQllSiD3uDWBsevoqg/s1600/il_570xN.723069976_pc41.jpg" height="320" width="140" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Men's Green Stripe</h3>
<h3>
Grilling Apron $16.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary:</b> What are some of your favorite things to do outside your shop?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue: </b>Well, when I'm not creating new items or making shop improvements I like to spend time with my family. My husband and I have 4 grown children and 4 grandchildren. And of course, there's our 5 month old cute and lovable Pip, the newest member of the family. Pip is a non shedding Shipoo who helps keep me company in my shop. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XX0NfwnbhOQTUC1NNP0ByQGJndzwaVjwXC7bK4Z2u5PE4ORkA8W2g4EXQYvbAeV9DW_rjABwK5pZdmXP2QkU7s0iAfOPrvKSGGqYerGBfVkH5ii3eIq8Oj6w5-NuFZHvd-2VcYMW_g/s1600/isc_90x90.21412924889_9h58.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_XX0NfwnbhOQTUC1NNP0ByQGJndzwaVjwXC7bK4Z2u5PE4ORkA8W2g4EXQYvbAeV9DW_rjABwK5pZdmXP2QkU7s0iAfOPrvKSGGqYerGBfVkH5ii3eIq8Oj6w5-NuFZHvd-2VcYMW_g/s1600/isc_90x90.21412924889_9h58.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Pip</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary:</b> Besides your kitchen and bath towels, what other items to you carry in your shop?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue: </b>I do carry some supplies, but I also have some primitive and other home decor items. I hope to</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">continue adding more items in my shop so my customers can choose from a variety of products.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary: </b>Can you explain what primitive decor is?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue: </b>It's a style of decorating that uses elements of muted colors and have a simple and rough look about them. It's associated with folk art style characteristic of early Americana time period.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnLbZ2fzL0nEZnD4DY77rlEvmuBMSgUYTVuGVM2kA7i1sLd1gF4-AeUeS_GxtIJi3un-2g7WeyAuGBf1NJwzidBut5Vji0yw_Mxl0Y6JqtSBJNlmDqBp5H9tlXSMUtjNYWza-Gi8E3Q/s1600/il_570xN.503232505_faf1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsnLbZ2fzL0nEZnD4DY77rlEvmuBMSgUYTVuGVM2kA7i1sLd1gF4-AeUeS_GxtIJi3un-2g7WeyAuGBf1NJwzidBut5Vji0yw_Mxl0Y6JqtSBJNlmDqBp5H9tlXSMUtjNYWza-Gi8E3Q/s1600/il_570xN.503232505_faf1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Primitive Pillow $10.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhyphenhyphenbn3YUDmXwUSYvYzSUuEPu0UFN8hfVMZENZ4I0hWEeu45CSWegNffnOPM161FiXc-cdp291GxIALD2wf8U9qJ6c7zBMfXleraaVDucHp6jlSBuXCOH1aaEbu729tlKMi1Cnh1BToA/s1600/il_570xN.717907143_ipym.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzhyphenhyphenbn3YUDmXwUSYvYzSUuEPu0UFN8hfVMZENZ4I0hWEeu45CSWegNffnOPM161FiXc-cdp291GxIALD2wf8U9qJ6c7zBMfXleraaVDucHp6jlSBuXCOH1aaEbu729tlKMi1Cnh1BToA/s1600/il_570xN.717907143_ipym.jpg" height="282" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Drawstring Rustic Tote $10.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary:</b> Where else can we find you?</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue:</b> You can find me on <a href="http://instagram.com/suesakornshop/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Instagram</span></a> and <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/suesakornshop/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Pinterest</span></a>.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mary:</b> Thank you for allowing me feature you and your Etsy shop. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Sue: </b>Your welcome. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Let's take a look at some other items in Sue's Akorn Shop.</i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWmL5lBVGAgE82tUMLcYiZiIj65BAtiM0bYTPGqQvYbktzuDjL5pIidpcbPRUpie-MWCShV3gvC9LI-nVslQF9EYz8CvLooiH7hbb6QcyF7lzgri0Y6nFO5-54hNFlOSlm942QZJ7vg/s1600/il_570xN.712113177_a5ha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjWmL5lBVGAgE82tUMLcYiZiIj65BAtiM0bYTPGqQvYbktzuDjL5pIidpcbPRUpie-MWCShV3gvC9LI-nVslQF9EYz8CvLooiH7hbb6QcyF7lzgri0Y6nFO5-54hNFlOSlm942QZJ7vg/s1600/il_570xN.712113177_a5ha.jpg" height="400" width="310" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Mercury Glass Tea Light Holders $14.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBs2TpZjs_5HjqTm70nx8kKKoCZV8HXEEtmxThdu_9MC4_J-6pfl2boKtGmJUd2wDn7FaDMCRMvjl5sDD2nDtjxVON7m6sXC6R6kRw03UeNEtz9Sx_8JgFmgxV7mjcnbScF4lIwh5iIg/s1600/il_570xN.669436845_20mq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBs2TpZjs_5HjqTm70nx8kKKoCZV8HXEEtmxThdu_9MC4_J-6pfl2boKtGmJUd2wDn7FaDMCRMvjl5sDD2nDtjxVON7m6sXC6R6kRw03UeNEtz9Sx_8JgFmgxV7mjcnbScF4lIwh5iIg/s1600/il_570xN.669436845_20mq.jpg" height="400" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Primitive Christmas Stocking</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbQyTpRzLcdUh4MNLMRcLCnmWXPdzB-dZJQf9ivvnLr85pA2LmvEBPQu6EMBK7z6kPEA9yrgbovAVBzJOfgTTpqIkHMZaIzUQ7yycQRCvhXl6Ocyk9Kl6vXqGevpTU-1JgY9R9kCncw/s1600/il_570xN.714760329_nt6a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvbQyTpRzLcdUh4MNLMRcLCnmWXPdzB-dZJQf9ivvnLr85pA2LmvEBPQu6EMBK7z6kPEA9yrgbovAVBzJOfgTTpqIkHMZaIzUQ7yycQRCvhXl6Ocyk9Kl6vXqGevpTU-1JgY9R9kCncw/s1600/il_570xN.714760329_nt6a.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Mercury Glass Jar with Lid, Diamond Pattern $20.00</h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">So if you're looking for a special home decor gift any time of the year, you don't have to look any further than <a href="http://SuesAkornShop.etsy.com/" style="color: blue;">Sue's Akorn Shop</a>. Everything is in stock and ready to ship. However, if you really want something special and can't find it in the shop, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sue's will also do custom orders. You can contact her through her Etsy shop. In the meantime just sit back, relax, shop away.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMgRzWnfY7yRb5WsMXFiymG_QsrxI0xTcTp9eNGrVSATezLvXSRCivg9ax6pblYlDTpLm5Xykcjz_R7qKfSb8UYRJZPZID6Wkr1C7Ly3VcT1TRNaOEImtlOh1E5qJOqXxR5oV728Tdsw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMgRzWnfY7yRb5WsMXFiymG_QsrxI0xTcTp9eNGrVSATezLvXSRCivg9ax6pblYlDTpLm5Xykcjz_R7qKfSb8UYRJZPZID6Wkr1C7Ly3VcT1TRNaOEImtlOh1E5qJOqXxR5oV728Tdsw/s1600/78561+PurseOnality_OL+SOLID.jpg" height="168" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</span></h3>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs3tsJ7Wo8ltR06JovPpy3nwZqzuVz3fUuPmnD7XV9vqqwy0ryPB3ckc8uVusD_fukzujwB_ZQ6qGXIZ49kzNztNO4Z23lgf0W5huGu3uWOYzDamQVMilRgJKKshR4-13ZA1CMi84FPQ/s1600/il_570xN.727650061_a2d4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01064084769867898881noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5462227180450732905.post-91857270994938019542015-02-13T11:02:00.000-08:002015-02-13T11:03:51.249-08:00Coach™ Trivia Quiz<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUX2bXUXJR53XQDpFqLzz4B_ZZki2G_Xh52m9643QW9Jokg8rSHw1TO6d6f7Oq1RoLnfNaXplKSkpfsJLRualgHSG994l3Utg1wPf6GxVAztE5clhtG4P2v5hRNXy0pEErLMgoRNtY1Q/s1600/il_570xN.701555133_lwlz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUX2bXUXJR53XQDpFqLzz4B_ZZki2G_Xh52m9643QW9Jokg8rSHw1TO6d6f7Oq1RoLnfNaXplKSkpfsJLRualgHSG994l3Utg1wPf6GxVAztE5clhtG4P2v5hRNXy0pEErLMgoRNtY1Q/s1600/il_570xN.701555133_lwlz.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">
Authenic Vintage Coach Crossbody Bag by <a href="http://moonrevival.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Moon Revival</span></a></span></h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Every business begins with a creative mind, a idea, a great business plan and lots of determination to make it grow and become a success. It doesn't matter if that the once small business is now a multibillon dollar corporation. Success does not come overnight for the majority of businesses and the </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.coach.com/shop/women-handbags?viewAll=true&spu=0&cid=S_G301234" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Coach</span></a></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">™Corporation isn't any different.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">With that in mind, there are plenty of shop owners on Etsy who have a dream to quit their full time jobs and work their Etsy shops instead. Some have made it, but plenty more haven't. I believe this is a admirable dream that can be attained under the right circumstances. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to say that your multibillion dollar business began as a little<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://purseonalitybymary.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Etsy online shop</span></a></span>? </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Today, I thought it would be nice to test your Coach™ knowledge so I developed a multiple choice quiz. Let's see how you rate. Answers below.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. In what year was Coach™ founded?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. 1941 b. 1943 c. 1945 d. 1948</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. In 1985, Coach™ was sold to what corporation?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. Hanes Group b. Sara Lee c. Macys d. Proctor & Gamble</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. In what year did Coach™ introduce its logo?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. 1948 b. 1943 c. 1959 d. 1960 </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. How many stores does Coach™</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> operate in North America as of 2014?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. 539 b. 733 c. 391 d. 925</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5. Coach™ allows franchise stores.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. true b. false</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6. Where is Coach™ headquarters located?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. Bronx b. Queens c. Manhatten d. Brooklyn </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">7. Coach™ products are made in how many countries?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. 15 b. 30 c. 25 d. 20</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">8. Coach™has individual distributorships.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. true b. false</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">9. When the Coach™ business started, how many people were involved?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. 1 b. 2 c. 4 d. 6 </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">10. Coach™ is publicly traded on which stock exchange?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> a. Nasdaq b. NYSE c. AMEX d. Dow Jones</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>______________________________________________________</b></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Here are some vintage Coach handbags from various Etsy shops.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc1QifCTWvfsJg0rxh_-xlQeysr8-sfHZNDvDoaIcRjcfthfJspAHoGBq0y_cYWuUxOKgysEga7vUWmWCLOMH1FUIpWcTgEPqQ43uqStjnFdAtKOZl52ON7BLQuD15tqzkmQQrluRhw/s1600/il_570xN.723311631_1s16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTc1QifCTWvfsJg0rxh_-xlQeysr8-sfHZNDvDoaIcRjcfthfJspAHoGBq0y_cYWuUxOKgysEga7vUWmWCLOMH1FUIpWcTgEPqQ43uqStjnFdAtKOZl52ON7BLQuD15tqzkmQQrluRhw/s1600/il_570xN.723311631_1s16.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Rare Olive Green Coach Bag #DSC-9870 by <a href="http://Obsoletestreet.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Ob'solete street</span></a></span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7Td9EKAbOlLx1BRVaRUofE58lSGHOMhkeO1sn4OBglxCyTLjUh-UbnLmEp3FQA7VMskXmkOj4PgDRG5FzyJVzid47WB41NFgFn2gDuZxYEKnIp88N4k_Rsl6Bmgk2tpu4J7s9_LE_g/s1600/il_570xN.696790561_96e7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP7Td9EKAbOlLx1BRVaRUofE58lSGHOMhkeO1sn4OBglxCyTLjUh-UbnLmEp3FQA7VMskXmkOj4PgDRG5FzyJVzid47WB41NFgFn2gDuZxYEKnIp88N4k_Rsl6Bmgk2tpu4J7s9_LE_g/s1600/il_570xN.696790561_96e7.jpg" height="400" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> 1960's Coach, Bonnie Cashin Design by <a href="http://cashincarry.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">CashinCarry</span></a></span></h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHTXDFbRjSoT3w4TFQTg_qwq2JyZ4WRxk0ct3I-eUZCKRPxLwlDkiKt_FFreRTDfxIptKugYirHCLbTkTpjXiQMUBToETggduUJZ82syPLqYUY6Ms8iuA_AGnyLTONdfB_rYvVnKSEg/s1600/il_570xN.673231241_60w8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWHTXDFbRjSoT3w4TFQTg_qwq2JyZ4WRxk0ct3I-eUZCKRPxLwlDkiKt_FFreRTDfxIptKugYirHCLbTkTpjXiQMUBToETggduUJZ82syPLqYUY6Ms8iuA_AGnyLTONdfB_rYvVnKSEg/s1600/il_570xN.673231241_60w8.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: 20px;"><h3>
<span itemprop="name" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> Original Twins: Vintage COACH NYC by <a href="http://SavedbytheSaver.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Saved by the Saver</span></a></span></span></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o-Iu1LmBIqwkCSo5zvXH1M-X_Z83PcWXOrXbAc5xgdCrE70rqvfy69oqcNLysvjZyconHB8jdjd81WjUfP01CTNmBJauuyDM2DfBhrZG8GXwVlrUb_O095lj343prpKtUv4x8QwoOw/s1600/il_570xN.647395927_a54m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4o-Iu1LmBIqwkCSo5zvXH1M-X_Z83PcWXOrXbAc5xgdCrE70rqvfy69oqcNLysvjZyconHB8jdjd81WjUfP01CTNmBJauuyDM2DfBhrZG8GXwVlrUb_O095lj343prpKtUv4x8QwoOw/s1600/il_570xN.647395927_a54m.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
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Coach Bag 9023 Mini Willis "Winnie" Crossbody by <a href="http://stylestealth.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Style Stealth</span></a></h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6NI3B5Zmz9G2QjaRgG0ulhFToIn3BKhUsfTCtQbfk913d7ugJYZqUmBwKfu-AcmIexvq_wTwmNl4Vfwc534x8FV2sGq0QBzmKR36yHBBbWcYOZC34nBpO5fWZi4Uc_R0XtwVLwnuxA/s1600/il_570xN.647698426_p0p7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6NI3B5Zmz9G2QjaRgG0ulhFToIn3BKhUsfTCtQbfk913d7ugJYZqUmBwKfu-AcmIexvq_wTwmNl4Vfwc534x8FV2sGq0QBzmKR36yHBBbWcYOZC34nBpO5fWZi4Uc_R0XtwVLwnuxA/s1600/il_570xN.647698426_p0p7.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
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Vintage Coach Bag Drawstring Sling Bucket by <a href="http://allaboutboutique.etsy.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">All About Boutique</span></a></h3>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Answers:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> 1. a 2. b 3. c 4. a. 5. a 6. c. 7. d 8. b 9. d 10. b</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How many did you get right?</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">9-10 Coach™expert. Buys their products.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">6-8 Coach-able. Prefers their products over others.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4-7 Coach™ deficient. Looks at their products; buys elsewhere.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1-3 Un-Coach(ed) Prefers other brands. </span></div>
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Site source: <a href="http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=122587&p=irol-faq"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Coach FAQ</span></a></div>
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Your Style, Your Mood, Your Personality</h3>
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