Feature Friday: Mizziexoxo Boutique

Cute Geeky Creepy Jewelry Accessories and More

What kind of items do you offer in your shop?

In my shop I offer mostly jewelry, and accessories, and some crochet items. Lots of resin necklaces, clay jewelry and charms.

About the shop:

Mizziexoxo Boutique offers cute,geeky,and creepy jewelry and accessories. Great for preteens, teens, and of course the young at heart.

What are some fun facts about you that you'd like to share with readers?

My name is Melissa. I'm 25 and live in Ontario,Canada. I love green tea, ramen noodles and eggs. Oh and don't forget crafting!

What is your favorite color?

Purple

SALE:

Code is FEATUREFRIDAY for 20% off in my Storenvy shop.

Here is everywhere you can find Mizziexoxo on the internet:

Blog - http://mizziexoxoboutique.blogspot.ca/

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/mizziexoxoboutique

Storenvy - http://mizziexoxoboutique.storenvy.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mizziexoxoboutique

Instagram - http://instagram.com/mizziexoxo

Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/mizziexoxo/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/mizziexoxo

Feature Friday: Violet's Buds

Eco-friendly accessories for you and your little flower

I am so excited to bring to you, Melanie Gipson of Violet's Buds this week in the Feature Friday spot! I am a big fan of her her hair accessories, but I don't have a daughter, so I have not bought anything yet. But I will make a purchase someday. (Seriously, how beautiful is this set?!) Don't forget to check out the other places that you can find Violet's Buds in the shared links at the end of the post.

What kind of items do you offer in your shop?
Eco-friendly hair accessories for girls and women of all ages, plus handmade hoop art décor to brighten any room of your home.

About the shop:

Handmade eco accessories for you & your little flower. Hair accessories for all ages, and hoop art decor to adorn your favorite rooms.

Violet's Buds strives to be green by upcycling, repurposing, and making the most out of all our supplies while creating a unique item for you.

Is there anything unique about your shop that readers should know about?
Violet's Buds items are unique in that the majority of the fabrics used are either remnants, or are upcycled from clothing & linens. Beads, pendants, & buttons in Violet's Buds accessories and art come from old & sometimes broken costume jewelry, clothing, or scouted out at flea markets.

What are some fun facts about you that you'd like to share with readers?

I have a degree in Photography with specialization in portraiture, but currently use my skills to photograph my own products plus items from several other makers. I also write photography tip posts for Daft Crafts.

My family is crafty, and my husband is the owner/creator at GipsonWands, as well as a graphic designer who helped to create my logo. Our daughter is on her way to becoming a maker as well!

Here is her adorable daughter modeling for her.

Who is your favorite musical artist?
My favorite musical artist is Ben Folds. I've seen him in concert, both solo or with a band, around ten times total and it's always amazing.

What is your favorite song and why?
I have a tough time choosing one favorite song. It depends on my mood, or what I'm into at the moment. One song my daughter and I love to dance and sing to is Man, It's So Loud In Here by They Might Be Giants.

What is your favorite color?
My favorite color is purple (no surprise there!)

What is your favorite quote?
I found this quote online last year and don't know who to attribute it to, but I wish I did. "You can't reach for anything new with your hands full of yesterday's junk."

GIVEAWAY:

I will send the winner a mystery grab bag of hair accessories worth $20, with free shipping in the US only. International winners agree to pay shipping and any applicable customs fees.

SALE:
I will offer all fans a 20% discount with the code ShopHandmade. The code will expire 2 weeks from the end of the feature date (03/27/2015).

Are there any auctions, giveaways, sales or other events that you're participating in that we should know about?

I will be in an upcoming multi-vendor Spring giveaway at Life's Gems, April 1st- April 8th. I will be participating in the local Strawberry Swing Spring craft fair May 2nd & 3rd. I'll have details posted on my blog and facebook page soon, plus there are details on Strawberry Swing's facebook page.

Blog - http://violetsbuds.blogspot.com/

Storenvy - http://violetsbuds.storenvy.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/violetsbuds

Instagram - http://instagram.com/VioletsBuds

Twitter - https://twitter.com/VioletsBuds

a Rafflecopter giveaway

#StorenvyFlash30: Mystigail Hand Stamped Jewelry - Updated

One of the shops that I am looking forward to purchasing from is Mystigail Hand Stamped Jewelry. I would really like to be able to purchase two of the New Baby Ornaments - one for each of my boys. I have even included the ornament in my #StorenvyFlash30 collection on SE!

There are so many wonderful hand stamped items in this shop. It ranges from ornaments to jewelry to wine charms to bookmarks. Here are a few of my favorite items available in the Mystigail shop:

First up is the Heartbeat bracelet. It's listed as wonderful for medical personnel, but even though I'm not in the medical field, I really love it.

Find it here

Next is the New Baby ornament that I want two of. This is the perfect keepsake ornament for Baby's First Christmas. They're personalized with Baby's birth stats and name, and you can choose blue, pink or white ribbon for the ornament.

I love this Santa's Key. It's perfect for families without a fireplace, but kids still young enough to believe in the magic of Santa. Or families like ours that have a fireplace that is locked up tight to keep curious little ones out of it, so Santa can't use our fireplace anyway. lol

Find it here

I am one of those breastfeeding, semi-natural minded mommas, and I have many friends that breastfeed (or breastfed) their babies. So this last one is perfect for the momma friends in my life.

Find it here

Please note: all photos are the property of Susan Hellison and are used with permission.

Update, 02/09/2015:
I did purchase two of the New Baby ornaments and was so happy with the quality of them! Due to unfortunate circumstances beyond her control, Susan was not able to complete and ship the ornaments to me as quickly as she would have liked, so she very generously included a cuff bracelet as a consolation. So I also one of those awesome heartbeat bracelets! Not only did she do a great job on what I ordered, she went above and beyond to keep me happy as a customer. It was greatly appreciated! I definitely recommend checking out her shop and buying from her for your hand stamped needs.

#StorenvyFlash30

Big news from our shop! On December 01, 2014, otherwise known as Cyber Monday, Stitches by Ashley Nicole will be part of a huge flash sale on Storenvy. Cody, the WAHM behind Lu & Ed has organized a Cyber Monday sale that runs from 12:00 am PST until 12:00 pm PST and every store participating is offering 30% off of everything in the store! Just use coupon code: StorenvyFlash30 at checkout to receive the discount.

If you head on over to bit.ly/storenvyflash30, you can view the complete list of participating shops. There are 50+ shops participating this year! And while on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr and other social media, just search the hashtag #StorenvyFlash30 to see what others are sharing.

Check back often over the next couple of weeks to see some of my favorite items from the other shops participating. And to see all of my favorite items from the shops, check out the collection that I made on Storenvy: bit.ly/StitchesCollection.

Second Birthday Celebration!

It has been two years since I started Stitches by Ashley Nicole, formerly Onesie o'Clock on the Dot, and we're celebrating with a giveaway and a sale!

Thank you to all of the fans and supporters of Stitches by Ashley Nicole! Your support means a lot to me and I greatly appreciate it. 

If you head over to the shop by clicking on the Storenvy "Visit my Store" badge on the right hand side of the blog, you can take advantage of the birthday sale by using coupon code 2ndBday when checking out for a 22% discount. Mobile readers, you can click here to visit the shop. And don't forget to check back in the shop each day over the weekend because the plan is to add new items each day.

Use the widget below to enter the giveaway for a chance to win $5, $10 or $15 in store credit!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Feature Friday: Hailstorm Creations

Happy Friday to all of you lovely readers! It's time for another installment of Feature Friday here on the Stitches by Ashley Nicole blog and the featured shop this week is Hailstorm Creations and the WAHM behind it, Haleigh. Hailstorm Creations is a fun and funky jewelry shop with lots of unique and bright pieces to appeal to many ages.

"Handmade Jewelry and Gifts"

Let's get to know more about Haleigh and Hailstorm Creations:

Haleigh is a stay at home mom (SAHM) who decided she wasn't going to let life pass her by, and thus Hailstorm Creations was born! What makes Hailstorm Creations unique is that she buys all of the jewelry supplies (chains, rhinestones, wire, etc.) from other Etsy sellers. Supporting other small businesses is very important to her.

"I love being at home with my daughter, and I think being able to make jewelry and sell it to the world from home is the perfect job! I never thought about making or selling jewelry until my best friend suggested it. I had made her a Leather Bow bracelet for her birthday, and she was in love! I have always been told I'm a creative person, and that I have a unique style in accessories so when she suggested I open an Etsy shop, I was sold on the idea. I have a passion for my creations, and I strive to express that in every piece of jewelry I make."

Haleigh has generously offered a coupon code for readers of today's post. Follow the link below to get to the Hailstorm Creations Etsy shop and use the coupon code: thanks2014 for 20% off any purchase of $12 or more!

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/hailstormcreations

Storenvy - http://hailstormcreations.storenvy.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/hailstormcreations

Feature Friday: Moose Country Crafts

Since last weekend was a holiday, there was no Feature Friday post. Here's the first Feature of the month and today it's Moose Country Crafts ("For the love of rustic, Americana, and home.") and the talented work at home mom (WAHM) behind it, Jamie. Her shop is full of great items and she's an amazing person, too.

Here's a bit about Jamie and her shop in her own words:

Welcome! I'm a stay at home mom (for now) with two kids (4 and 20 months, two dogs, just one husband :). I love all things country and homey!

A little bit about me...I was an environmental planner who was laid off about three years ago, worked some contract work in between and then became pregnant again in January of 2012. I found out in July of 2012 that I had breast cancer. So after coming out of that with a beautiful baby girl, as she and my son have become a bit older and more independent, I decided to get back into doing something a bit creative. Re-started my Etsy and facebook page in May and have just been plugging away at marketing ever since :) I'm slowly adding items all the time!

I try to use mostly upcycled or recycled items just because I feel like reused items can tell a story. Many of the items I'm using right now, frames and such, came from my grandparents house that I have been cleaning out for the past two years. And many that my grandfather made himself. I love burlap because it just exudes country, old and rustic.

How cool is it that she gets to repurpose frames that her grandfather made? I really like that aspect of her creations. Giving new life to items is always a great creative adventure!

Make sure to follow the link below to the Moose Country Crafts Etsy storefront and use coupon code FEATUREFRIDAY for 25% off of your purchase!

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/MooseCountryCrafts

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/moosecountrycrafts

Instagram - http://instagram.com/moosecountrycrafts

Twitter - https://twitter.com/MooseCntryCrfts

Feature Friday: Ribbit Gifts

These can be found here

It's a new month and things are finally starting to be back to normal in the Stitches household. What does that mean for you, our awesome readers? It means a brand new Feature Friday post! This week, I'm bringing to you the very talented Cristina and her shop Ribbit Gifts.

At Ribbit Gifts, it is specialized in everyday jewelry. Meaning, a necklace, bracelet and a pair of earrings that can dress up any outfit, on any day of the week and for any occasion. Accessories are the perfect way to change up your wardrobe when it feels like you're wearing the same outfits every week.

This can be found here

A portion of the sales goes to a different local cause or organization each month. She also offers puzzle piece jewelry and a portion of those sales goes to Autism Speaks (or your local autism resource center, if you request that).

Ribbit Gifts has something for every price range. There are cute corded bracelets for as low as $6 USD (plus a very reasonable shipping charge); with the highest priced item in the shop being $20 USD. I personally love the dinosaur charms she offers for jewelry. How cute is a tiny T-rex or Brontosaurus?

This can be found here

Here's a little more about Ribbit Gifts in Cristina's own words:

I'm a 20-something mom, wife and entrepreneur with a love for life, baking and crafting. Ribbit Gifts specializes in everyday jewelry - a necklace, earrings or bracelet that can be worn with any outfit and for any occasion at an affordable price. I am a strong believer in giving back and supporting the local community. Each month a portion of sales goes to a different local cause or organization. I hope you enjoy your shopping experience at Ribbit Gifts as much as I enjoy making each piece with you in mind!

While I haven't had the chance to purchase anything from Ribbit Gifts yet, I love what is offered and keep her shop in mind when I'm thinking about jewelry purchases. The thing that really stops me is that I have a two year old who still thinks that he should grab necklaces to look at them. But I just might be asking for a fun pair of dragonfly earrings for my birthday this year.

This can be found here

There is an exclusive sale for blog readers, please use offer code FEATUREFRIDAY20 when checking out on Etsy to receive 20% off of your purchase (see below for links). Sale expires June 15, 2014 at 11:59:59 pm Central.

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/RibbitGifts

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/RibbitGifts

Instagram - http://instagram.com/RibbitGifts

Email - ribbitgifts@gmail.com

Feature Friday: EkayG Crafts

This week, I'm bringing EkayG Crafts to you and the amazing WAHM behind it: Erin! Let's get to know her in her own words:

The amazing racetrack rug!

I began crocheting in college when I could no longer play basketball due to an injury. It seems like a strange transition, but it was so relaxing for me, and really helped to take my mind off how much I missed playing ball.

Two very sweet loveys available

My business really grew when I began making toys for kids, inspired by my own children and the things they love. The race track rug is one of my most popular items. The pattern by Cynthia Rae, was something I wanted to make for my own son one year for Christmas. When I posted pictures of it, many people wanted one. Now I am usually booked for Christmas by October with those orders.

A zippered owl wristlet

The name "EkayG" comes from my initials, and my middle name is Kay. I wanted a title which lets my customers know my products are made with love and heart. I really enjoy creating their orders, and am so grateful to be able to do so!

EkayG will offer 15% all purchases in the Etsy shop from Friday May 9th though Sunday May 11, 11:59 pm using the code FEATUREFRIDAY15.

Etsy - https://www.etsy.com/shop/EkayG

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/EkayGCrafts

Instagram - http://instagram.com/ekaygcrafts

Pinterest - http://www.pinterest.com/EkayGCrafts

Twitter - https://twitter.com/EkayGCrafts

April Round-Up

The crafty focus of this month was mostly on making things for my little boy (and baby due in August). I also worked on a few things for the shop. We also tried out a new recipe (yum!!).

Oh my goodness! Have you seen the snickerdoodle recipe shared this month?! It's to die for (as long as you like cinnamon sugar cookies anyway). We also shared an easy Easter dish (and a great idea for the leftovers) and had a guest post for 7 layer bars.

This month, I was able to work on #100itemcraftstashchallenge projects 35-38. Not as exciting as last month's eight projects, but still impressive. Especially if it counts that 39, 40 and 41 are ready for photos and blog posts to be written up.

#100itemcraftstashchallenge: Projects 35 and 36

#100itemcraftstashchallenge: Project 37

#100itemcraftstashchallenge: Project 38

We had three successful Feature Friday posts with some very talented small business owners. Two included sales and one included a giveaway. The winner of the giveaway was just announced on Tuesday of this week!

Over on facebook, we reached the milestone of 200 Likes this month. And over on Instagram, we reached the milestone of 100 followers! It was an exciting month for our little shop. Now, we just need to reach 100 followers on Twitter! To celebrate the 200 on facebook, we have a sale on SE using promo code FB200.

Feature Friday: Nourishingly Natural

This week, I'm bringing Nourishingly Natural to you. One of my favorite parts about their website is the rewards system that you can sign up for! For every dollar you spend on products, you get a reward point (e.g., spend $30, get 30 pts) and when you have enough points, you can use those points to buy more products. So far, I have a whole whopping 3 pts - I am slacking on my natural body products stash, but I will fix that eventually. 

"My name is Mandi, and I created the Nourishingly Natural line of all natural, handcrafted bath and body products. I am a wife, and a stay at home mom of three.

Back in 2004, I began to develop sensitivities to several ingredients in “store bought” bath and body products. After several visits to the dermatologist, and a lot of personal research, I finally had an answer. I have an auto-immune disease that is exacerbated by artificial fragrances. I never had any idea that the "smelly" bath products I loved could hurt me! Did you know that artificial/synthetic fragrances are among the top 5 skin allergens? These dangerous chemicals affect more than just our skin, and are attributed to conditions such as asthma, and problems with the immune, reproductive, and central nervous systems!

Now, I prefer to make my own bath and body products, using all natural ingredients. All of my products contain skin nourishing ingredients, such as natural and organic oils, organically grown herbs, pure beeswax, natural spices, and pure essential oils. You won’t find any artificial colors or fragrances, parabens, or phthalates in any of my handcrafted products." - copied from Nourishingly Natural - About Us!

I bought a Honey Coconut Lip Balm because I thought it was something that PGS could use. That kid is obsessed with putting on lip balm and I'd rather he used this kind than slathering on my Chapstick brand lip balm multiple times each day. I don't want him eating it. I'm really happy with the lip balm and when it's close to time to replace it, I definitely will be purchasing a second Nourishingly Natural lip balm!

All new fan's of Nourishingly Natural can use the coupon code: newfanlove10. It's good for 10% off for every new fan's order!

Website - http://www.nourishinglynatural.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/NourishinglyNatural

Feature Friday: Lisie's Pieces

The first Feature Friday post of April is Lisie's Pieces. At Lisie's Pieces, you'll find custom, personalized family-inspired artwork (and some jewelry, also). Personally, I like the owl family trees the best - and you can even include the "Adding to Your Nest Guarantee" option to your tree! For a personalized tree, your name is woven into the roots of the tree and that is a signature design feature to the trees offered by Lisa.

"Lisie’s Pieces is one mom’s mission to design during nap time.

Example of a DIY Family Tree kit
Original Photo found here.

I suppose my destiny to be an artist was revealed around the age of 3, when my mom caught me coloring on my bedroom walls. I’ve been drawing, making my own cards and creating things as long as I can remember. I knew that graphic design would allow me to be an artist (minus the “starving” part….most of the time) but when my career started in the manufacturing industry I didn’t realize how much my creativity would be limited.

Twelve years later, I found myself in a position to finally do something about it and Lisie’s Pieces was born. The positive response I received from sharing my early ideas with just a handful of folks is really what has sparked my motivation to finally “go for it”.

And, now, for the first time in my life I can honestly say that I LOVE my job!

Example of a Bird Nest necklace
Original photo found here

When I’m not pushing pixels, I’m “Mommy” to two of the most beautiful and funny boys I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. Coincidentally, they ALSO color on walls. My husband is a total rock star and there’s no one I’d rather be on this roller coaster ride with. Our family enjoys being outdoors, being silly and just being us.

I hope you’ll enjoy Lisie’s Pieces as much as I do! I look forward to creating something beautiful for your family.

All the best,

Lisa Contessa" - copied from Lisie's Pieces - About

Use the offer code stitches10 to take 10% off any purchase through the end of April. So it is a great time to get a unique Mother's Day gift. Hint-hint! 

Website - http://lisiespieces.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LisiesPieces