FB Fan Appreciation Giveaway!

100+ fans of Kameli Shae! Yay! This seems like a cause for a celebration! What better way to celebrate than a GIVEAWAY!
I have to admit that production has been a little slow since the addition of Angelface#3 in January, but my creative wheels are forever turning. And I've been sneaking into my laboratory between naptimes, snacktimes and lesson times, so new items are a coming. Please be patient and check www.etsy.com/shop/kamelishae and or the FB Fanpage often. Did you ask: When do I sleep? I apoloqize, but I don't speak that language. Anyways...
If you would like to win this Gift Cheque to use toward your next purchase in my boutique here are the details:

- You must be a Facebook Fan (give us a "Like"): www.facebook.com/kamelishae.
- Leave a comment on this blog post stating your best bit of advice for Kameli Shae's success and/or sustainability for the future. - Want to increase your chances? Refer a friend to participate, as well. Make sure the friend states that you referred them, though. - Random.org will be used to choose a winner from the comments on Sunday, March 13th. - The winner will be announced on the Facebook Fan Page and here on the blog. A copy of this certificate, details for use and other pertinent info will be emailed to the winner, as well. Good luck and many thanks for being a Fan, a Follower and most importantly an Inspiration!
Although this contest is closed, you may still give us a "LIKE" on Facebook. many thanks... 

Hobby or Home-based Business? A Profitable Decision.

Many professional crafters started their businesses after being urged by friends and family. It took me many years of entering and exiting the craft market to realize that I needed to wholeheartedly become a craft professional. I, in fact, never knew that Etsy existed until the creative force behind Mamanyah Creates and Natty Rootz Wear  (both on Etsy) introduced us. Affirmations and encouragement is important to all of us no matter what task we decide to take on. I treasure important people in my life who sincerely praise and appreciate my skill. Yet, to proceed at becoming a professional crafter interested in making a serious profit, I had to understand the difference between "hobby" and "business". A lot of this stuff, the necessaries, I've learned along the way. Which means I'm still figuring out quite a bit, myself. If you're not naturally a risk-taker like myself, you might cringe at some of my horror stories. Tales of how I jumped head first into my idea of starting a company. Lots of lessons learned, but lots of money and time wasted along the way. I should get a tattoo that says "Just do it" because that's how I take on many new tasks.

Anyone who believes that just because they have a passion for their craft or collectible that that will substitute for real business skills is in for a rude awakening; a very quick one at that!  A knitter who opens a shop stocked with only their favorite brand of yarn and needles is taking on a risky, or perhaps, bad idea. While enthusiasm for your interest is important and perhaps the biggest aspect of all, it really takes business skills to turn a hobby into a profitable endeavor. I challenge you to ask yourself whether you could turn your hobby into a profitable opportunity.

Can you set aside your personal preferences in order to observe trends and money-makers objectively? I actually started out that way. My love for African/Ethnic prints quickly put me in a box. Truth is, a lot of people who say they love the fabric and the culture are rarely buying items constructed from the material. Instead, I turned that interest in the textiles into a supply store: ladyfingahs.etsy.com. And if someone sees something on kamelishae.etsy.com that they want constructed of afro-prints, they just need to choose a fabric from the other site without being charged an extra fee. Before making any crucial moves, you have to honestly ask yourself whether you're willing to take time to learn business essentials. What are they? The list could vary depending on your industry, but for starters: basic book-keeping, permits/licenses, customer service, product info and the biggy... the IRS/tax filing.

Why continue giving away your creations when you can sell them? Go into business! Unlock that potential and turn your skills into cash. In closing, answer the following questions to help further define your status as a craft hobbyist or craft professional:

• Have you researched your potential market?
• Can your business make a profit?
• Can you formulate an efficient book-keeping system? Paypal has some really good apps to help with this.
• How will you keep track of your shop's inventory?
• Can you afford the necessary licenses and/or permits?
• Can you afford to advertise or promote your company and/or product?
• Will you file the proper tax forms to show deductions?
• Can you form a relationship with vendors and wholesalers? Do you know who they are? If not, do you know how to find them?
• Can you afford studio space or an office in or outside your home?
• How much time can you devote to your business every week, day, month?
• How will you brand your company? Do you have a logo, mission statement, letterhead, business cards, etc.?
• Can you attend (whether vending or just attending) craft fairs, bazaars, trade shows, etc.?
• What is your backup plan... for any of the above questions that were answered negatively ?

 This could be you!

The Darker the Berry...

... the sweeter the buy. The purpose of this treasury is to showcase the beauty of items from members of Team EAOC. Hopefully, you will find several gifts for the special people on your list.

This is a treasury that I created on Etsy. It features wonderful gift items from members of Team EAOC (etsy artists of color). Check it out, but mostly enjoy!

Ahhh, To Be a Kid Again

"You've gotta dance like there's nobody watching,

Love like you'll never be hurt,

 Sing like there's nobody listening,

And live like it's heaven on earth." 

 — William W. Purkey

My children do things that are so inspiring. As we were leaving a restaurant today the oldest decided to dance. I'm sure for no one in particular, but herself. This time several people who were on their way to their seats stopped to watch. She continued and seemed very unphased by her captivated audience. When she decided she was done she kindly said excuse me and scurried through the crowd towards the door. Her younger sister, her third biggest cheerleader, clapped her hands off. I remember apologizing for the hold up. An elderly lady said she enjoyed the show and that she didn't mind waiting. After buckling everyone in, but before cranking up the car I got to thinking in an emotional kind of way for several different reasons:

•  kids can be so fearless - she did pliés, arabesques and twirls as if she was the only one in the room
•  kids can be so nonjudgemental - she didn't care that one man impatiently broke through the crowd to get to his seat. In fact, she twirled out of his way. And she always speaks or acknowledges random people. Even if it's just to ask them how their day is going. The other day in the dentist's office she noticed a lady staring in our direction. After stating very loudly, "the lady is staring at us", she waved hello and broke the ice for us (two very grown parents). The lady and I chatted the rest of the time we were waiting to be seen.
• kids can take a cue from no one, but themselves - nobody had to tell her when to begin dancing; she just did because she felt like it
• kids sometimes can't control their emotions - she danced like the joy in her heart was overflowing and laughed the entire time
• kids randomly say "I love you" - she did just that, as she does quite often... after I buckled her in. Then the youngest chimed in saying "no crying, Mommy"

When I finish growing up, I hope I'm like her in so many ways. I never thought that I would be so inspired by a 3 year old, but honestly I am. Take a moment to comment below on how a child has inspired or influenced you lately?

I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance

Never settle for the path of least resistance

Living might mean taking chances but they're worth taking

Lovin' might be a mistake but it's worth making

I hope you dance, I hope you dance

- Lee Ann Womack

Disclaimer: Of course, no two children are alike. They all tend to have their own personality. Take notice of your child's spirit starting today.