Archive for January, 2010

01/19/10

A little sunshine in our favorites this morning. Love the warm colors, and since its finally starting to warm up temperature wise around here, it seems appropriate.

The new exhibition started yesterday as well, so we have A LOT of fresh, new shops to share and explore. And of course, some familiar faces as well. Beautiful artwork and illustrations. Amazing handmade clothing and accessories, housewares (even some furniture pieces), children’s items, and more.  All our exhibitors are listed below…

01/19/10

In the midst of a chilly January, there are few things better than a steaming mug of hot chocolate.  In fact, I’m in the midst of a rather extensive find-the-most-delicious-hot-chocolate-on-the-planet search. Hence my appreciation for these no-muss-no-fuss hotchocspoons from Chocolate Company, spotted on simplesong.

According to the cute company Web Site: “Of course our core product is the Hotchocspoon. We couldn’t live without it. It’s the iPhone among hot chocolates. Our Hotchocspoon is always undergoing development. It is now available WITH a whisky or amaretto shot or with Smarties for “kids only”.”

And best of all, there are 46 flavors to obsess over – from standard milk chocolate to strawberry and pink pepper.  This is definitely a hostess gift I wouldn’t mind getting!

Enjoy your week,

Kathryn

01/19/10

Has anyone else seen the newest catalog from Anthropologie? I love all the new shoes, specially these.

01/18/10

Right around this time, I usually grab a little snack and right now I am wishing I had one of these cupcakes (because that’s a light snack right?). These yummy photos are from the talented, Kitty Rogers.

01/18/10

1.  This oversized black tee with metallic gold chain print is tough girl chic.  ”Chains of Love” shirt by Every Little Counts, $40.

2.  A knit chain link necklace in electric blue makes for a unique statement piece. “Faux Bling” necklace by Little Purls, $72.

3.  This vintage-inspired quilted bag has a modern twist… the metallic blue material and bright gold chain strap make the classic shape new again.  Purse by Paul’s Boutique, $54.39 from ASOS.

4.  This dress is sure to make a statement.  The sweet silhouette is countered by a punky chains-and-stripes print.  Dress by Motel, $64.59 from ASOS.

5.  You will look like a rock star in these edgy ankle booties with multi-hued draped chain detail.  Flash booties by Dolce Vita, $172 from Lori’s.

6.  This arrow chain brooch pays tribute to Cupid… the perfect Valentine’s Day accessory!  Brooch by Tuleste Market, $50 from Shopbop.

xoxo,

Lesley of 315thomas

01/18/10

I’m Brenda from Phydelle and Phydeaux Designs, back with this week’s edition of Craft Venture!  We talked last week about debriefing from your holiday season – identifying lessons to learn and new opportunities, as part of our January series on cleaning up and making over our online shops.  Let’s revisit pricing this week – January is the perfect time to recalculate your prices, particularly if you’re introducing new designs and new lines!

We talked about pricing recently.  Is it too soon to think about pricing again?  No!  As a small business owner, you should always be thinking about your pricing structure and strategy!  Your expenses constantly fluctuate – revisiting your prices a few times a year will help you make sure you’re not unintentionally losing money.

Also, after the holidays, retailers are looking for brand new goods and designs.  What better time to revisit your wholesale pricing, while you spruce up your shop and introduce new goods?

01/18/10

This heart-shaped doily basket from Gathering Spriggs is so sweet. What a great way to introduce an unexpected heart shape for Valentine’s Day.

More Info: Hand dyed dusty rose doily formed into a little basket for keys and other odds and ends.

Price: $9  at Gathering Spriggs