one great way to increase your sales online- is to start working offline! this great article goes into more depth, but i’m going to summarize the key points for you here.  networking online is  a great resource, but so many of us stop there- when we should really be networking in more traditional ways to maintain a constant flow of new visitors to our shops.

breathe..

network, network, network.  find an organization that you like, and become a member.  there are numerous venues for crafty networking events, and getting involved will only benefit your business.  if your city or a surrounding city is known for it’s artists, you can get in touch with their chamber of commerce and attend their events.  do a google search for ‘art clubs’ or ‘craft clubs’ for you city- and see what’s there! get in touch with your local galleries and attend any events they put on.  and, even if you don’t have time to be involved with the local craft shows- they are a wonderful place to network with like-minded people.

crystal pearl cascade earrings

once you decide on one or two organizations- become a member and get involved.  you’ll meet new people and other artists, and they will certainly come to  you first for products- and even send people your way that want to buy handmade.

the big pink necklace

go into networking meetings with the intent of meeting new people!  if you tend to get a little nervous- find someone to talk to who looks more nervous than you- that will help you both calm down!  make sure to have your oh so cute business cards with you- they can be your best seller- and maybe even a conversation piece.  most importantly, be genuine, ask lots of questions and have fun!

vase in vanilla bean

no doubt, you’ll leave with a bundle of business cards yourself.  make sure to send an email out to everyone you met with and thank them for their time (do this the next day!).  maybe you’ll have time to check out their website or products and make a quick comment.  if you promised them some more information about you- include that as well.  otherwise, make sure you signature includes your shop address and any other pertinent info (maybe your blog, but prob not your twitter).

little house clay pendant

don’t add all of the emails to your newsletter list (just yet) but do stay in touch.  email them every month or so and stay up to date on their going-ons.  when you do form a relationship (and have their permission) you can add them to your newsletter list or post card mailings- but most importantly, keep your business fresh in their minds.

it’s so much easier to network from behind your computer, isn’t it?  face to face communication has just gotten harder and harder- but it will be beneficial.  be yourself, ask questions and follow up- you’ll be both increasing sales and making a professional image for yourself.  have fun! love, bonnie

wrap up: {etsy shop help}

left to right :: autumn tree notepad :: acorn gift tag :: travel journal :: coffee cup place cards :: the antlers ::

hello dearies!  aren’t these tags so darling?  basak is the creative mind behind small square designs, and she brings such a genuine thoughtfulness to her work.  her delightful blog, full of mistakes, is a beautiful read with loads of inspiration.  why full of mistakes? though she lives in san francisco, she’s not a native speaker- however, i find it an easy read with some really stunning images!  you can also read her at cook the net.. in turkish!

i’ll be back later  today with some etsy savoir faire!

their story :: “When World War II came to an end, Fred and Enid Collins moved to Medina, TX with every intention of becoming ranchers. To the benefit of all who appreciate great style and artistry, the ranching business proved a struggle, and the couple turned to their artistic talents for their livelihood. The team began producing leather handbags with hand sculpted brass ornaments. Their first big client was none other than Neiman Marcus. They named their line Collins of Texas, and in time turned out all sorts of amazingly creative totes and handbags.

Decades later, Lara Collins Bobo, the Collins’ granddaughter, teams up with husband Tim Bobo to open a shop featuring lines as creative and unique as Fred and Enid’s. Every aspect of Enid is inspired by its namesake, Enid Collins, and her whimsical, colorful, and completely original design style. Also, Enid was known for her constant efforts to support the starving artists, evidenced in the eclectic art collection she left behind. With this in mind, Lara and Tim fill their shop with well designed pieces from lesser known artists/craftsmen/designers, including their own collections of handmade furniture and jewelry.

The shop itself is located in the quaint german town of Fredericksburg, TX, known for it’s great shopping, local artists and craftsmen, peaches, pecans, and vineyards. Stepping into the Enid shop is guaranteed to be an unique experience. You will usually find Tim or Lara on site, willing to help inspire your creativity in decorating your home, picking out the perfect thoughtful gift, or to find that perfect accessory to enhance your lifestyle.”

i love their story- isn’t it so different and wonderful? visit enid for loads of inspiration, handmade goodness and other great finds that you won’t be finding in the big box stores.

{site} {blog} {twitter}

left to right :: vintage french clock :: dutch chocolate molds :: vintage rolling pins :: painters brushes :: little red hand mixer :: sugar sacks ::

lately, i’ve been obsessed with everything that is sadie olive. sara duckett is a photographer, graphic designer, boutique owner and most recently- an etsy shop owner.  though her shop’s  motto is ‘one of a kind finds’, sadie olive is in itself- a one of a kind find.  stunning images, beautiful vintage finds, and a blog to die for- have fun roaming around her universe today, you’ll get lost in it all…

{shop} {blog} {boutique} {photography}

wrap up: {etsy} {handmade} {home decor} {kitchen} {sadie olive} {vintage}

these *gorgeous images from alice b gardens puts my sleepy monday in a better mood already.  i’m totally in love with this mod housewife’s work and could daydream over it all day..

left to right :: 1) marshmallow clouds 2) buttons and thread 3) seaside town 4) lovely day 5) garden daisies 6) vintage jars 7) summer porch 8) carousel 9) summer umbrella

{shop} {flickr} {zazzle} {elle moss} {diary of a mod housewife}

congratulations hollie (#7), you’ve won!!

good company by ground work

along with all the sewing i’m busy with this weekend, i hope to grab a few minutes to lay down with a good book.  i would *love to be in the woods wrapped up in a scarf reading with this gal- how beautiful and relaxine!  what are you doing this weekend?

just wanted to send a quick memo letting you all know that the advertising page has been updated.  same great (and very affordable rates), but some new info and updated site statistics!  from now on, monthly ad spots will start and end with the first and last of each month- and october is almost here!  going home to roost is solely supported by it’s advertisers- and wouldn’t be possible without you, so thank you! (i love you dearies!)