GreenFamilyTree

I dont' come easy...

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 21:48:59 GMT

So, the Etsy Shop greenfamilytree is going to be closed for longer than expected. Let's just say that MJ (God rest his poor soul) wasn't the only one with past-due bills.

Until I can straighten it out properly, you all can come over and shop at ArtFire. GFT will be still closed until July 15, but the Jewelry and Fiction shops are wide open and waiting for customers.

The fact that I haven't made any sales @ ArtFire hasn't deterred me yet -- I still am liking the monthly fee, as opposed to 20 cents a pop. The only down-side is that you cannot re-new items (not that I've discovered yet). But, for me, it's just like a hosting site -- you get space, and you pay once a month and that's that. Well, you also pay a tiny selling fee, but really, Etsy can add up if you're not careful! (see first paragraph if you don't believe me).

I'll be heavily promoting the ArtFire shops for now. HOWEVER, I will still remain an Etsy shopper, because I can't really turn my back on the place that gave me such success over the past couple of years.

So, now for the Artisan's of the day:

Esty Artisan of the Day

If she calls this an "oops!", I can't wait to see the good ones! I just wish I had the patience to crochet like this -- my stuff tends to look like my daughter made it. Go check the rest of leahstreasures out...

ArtFire Artisan of the Day

QwertyO was one of my first customers at the Etsy shop, if not my FIRST customer! I had no idea she had a shop over at ArtFire and I'm glad I found her! I love the way her produce bags look! *waves*

1000 Markets Artisan of the Day

This pendant and card are simply beautiful. Like it says, I really have no other words, other than go and visit gpdesignsart and her other offerings.

Back to the Drawing Board!

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:38:27 GMT

So, as promised, GreenFamilyTree @ Etsy and Artfire have been closed down while I get my act together. I'm going to take this as a learning process and when they return, the customer service experience will be better than ever! That is, if they both return. I'm having an Etsy bill experience that is less than stellar, so that shop may be in lockdown for a while. My advice? Careful with the re-newing. It is dangerous. Everyone says renewing is the way to go, to get your shop seen and out there, but at 20 cents a pop, it can add up. Also? If you're bad with finances, find a friend/relative/poor schlub who is good at it to help you out. I've FINALLY convinced my husband (who has the accounting experience) to lend a hand, so when I return, things will run much smoother than before.

So, what will you see when GreenFamilyTree comes back? What you expect. Great products, wonderful customer service, a fulfillment department that is second to none. You'll see the laundry products come back first, with new scents and a more reasonable size. Then, by September, the cleaning products will make a comeback -- with more choices. Following that, in December, Auntie Yvie and Brother G will be back in style. Then by February 2010, a great new surprise will be waiting for you all.

Until July 15, go and visit my jewelry shops, GFTDesigns @ Artfire and Etsy. I've got some lovelies there that I think you'll enjoy!

Oh, and for those looking for the book, check out GFT Publications. It's going to have it's own little home.

I'll be posting the Artisans of the Day still, so keep a look out for those! Gotta keep giving props to my fellow artisans!

I'm so easily amused

Sun, 14 Jun 2009 17:49:20 GMT

I got my Mason(tm)jars! I had to travel a bit, but I finally found a place that sells them. Of course this is only AFTER I ended up packaging on my current orders in alternative packaging... sorry, folks!

Well, on a serious business note, I've found a partner who is going to help me out on the fulfillment side of the biz. The one thing that has been a thorn in my forehead since I opened up is going to become much easier. Problem was, I wasn't getting much support on the home front and with one crazy toddler and one crazier teenager, getting things packaged and sent out was a full-time job on its own. Thanks God I have good friends. Now I have a person who is going to help with the packaging and shipping portion, which will ALSO give my sendings a wonderful consistency which should punch up my reputation quite a few notches. Go me. Now I can concentrate on creating an even more wonderful product. My next goal? Finding an angel investor... what, I can dream, right?

So, today is the last day of the Etsy YART Sale -- of which both of my shops were participants. Today is the last day to wander on over there and get a gander of the goodies I've got to offer. Especially the soaps -- because the soap line is getting discontinued for a little while, until I can get my bank account a little more healthier. Besides, I'm falling in love with the creation of the household cleaners again!

So, yes, I've been remiss. I haven't posted an Artisan of the Day for some time, so I'm here you go!

Artisans of the Day

This seller has been a great help to me from a business perspective ever since I stumbled across her shop. I have to give her mad props for her product line.
Princess Bride Shaving Soap from Savor

Seriously? If you are into this kind of thing (and I am), this is gorgeous! Let's give magpiesmasquerie her first sales so we can see more beauties like this Venetian Knight.

Artisan of the Day

Oh, yeah. Did I even know that Crafter's Soap existed? I love the idea! Props to EvermoreSoap for the idea -- and the cool avatar!

Yes, it's a syrup cozy... why do you ask? I figure if you love your syrup like ASecondChance apparently does, why not?

Artisans of the Day

Girl Cooties Alert! Guys go elsewhere... watch SpikeTV or something if the following will traumatize you.

Ladies, you know what ProCraftination is taking about. First time I've found these babies, and I can be certain they will be in my shopping cart soon. Because yes.

Need a gentle memory of your college days? MoJo has it for you right here. Can you imagine that baccalaurate pulling this change purse out of bag? I love it.

Okay, till later folks! I'm off to worship at the alter of Shaw's Grocers for giving me back my mason jars!

I Yarted...

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 16:45:20 GMT

One last hurrah before the downsizing of GreenFamilyTree. Everything is still 15% off over here -- and I'm throwing in FREE international Shipping!

And at GFT Designs -- you'll get your 3rd item free for every 2 you buy! Great time to stock up on some fun jewelry!

Here are a few other Etsian's participating in the YART sale!

I couldn't resist this one...
Mamma's Nasty Spinach ACEO Collage from JustaLittleBit

Beautiful Bright Colors, perfect for any season!

Rebecca Handbag in Red and Orange Cotton Floral from DeborahLeighDesigns

Gorgeous! That is all.
Midnight in the Garden Wall Hanging from SewFarOut

and for those big spenders...

This is breathtaking! If you are getting married and want something totally unique, check this beauty out!
Custom Wedding Set -- Necklace and Cufflinks from EchodAmour

Good luck to everyone else participating in the YART sale! Feel free to comment if you're participating!

Till later all!

Seriously, Mason/Ball (tm)?

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 15:06:47 GMT

I swear I can't win for losing... Good ole Wally-world finally started carrying Mason(tm) jars a few weeks ago, and I jumped for joy! I hated riding all over central MA looking for the things, so I determined as soon as I got paid, I would stock up, so I could happily fulfill my orders for the 12/24 Load package of Laundry Powder. (No links today; you see why when you read further)

So I get paid, and roll into the store and guess what? They've decided to re-vamp the household section and no Mason Jars to be found. I check at the local Stop N Shop... they've carried the things too -- no dice.

So I went online to buckle down and purchase the silly things from the Mason/Ball company. The jars are $8.49. Not bad. The shipping is $12.01.

Seriously?

So, I guess it's off to Shrewsbury to find my jars, so my customers can get their laundry powder.

Speaking of laundry powder, I've made an executive decision, a la GM. I'm going to pare down the shop to only the Grandma Helen and the Abuelita Lidia line. The other parts haven't been as profitable as the household cleaners, so I'm going back to the original idea of concentrating on these things to be able to deliver the most quality product. What you'll find at GreenFamilyTree after the 15 will be:

Grandma Helen's Laundry Products - Powder, Freshener, Powerhouse Sachets
Abuelita Lidia's Cleaning Products - Cleaners, Eco-Friendly cloths, cleaning sets, etc.

As much as I like soaping, it's not profitable right now. When I get more profitable and organized, I'll bring it back.

The Defender's Burden? I think it's more effective to keep my shops at one concentration. I may shop at Wally-World, but I don't want to look like Wally-world. And that's no dig at the shops who carry a multitude of items. If you can do it without going crazy, you have my undying admiration. I can't. So GFTPublications will be open by July 1. Wish me luck. Again.

Since I've been babbling forever; I'll post my Artisans of the Day in a later post.

You guys have a great day!

Whistle While You Work #87889378

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:14:15 GMT

Busy day today, thank goodness! I've got some packing and shipping to do -- and not at my day job either. Then, it's off to Movie Night with the son tonight after work. I think we're seeing Angels and Demons this week. I know, there are folk who are all in an uproar about this movie, but I think it's an interesting story with one thing that always fascinates me -- puzzles.

Today, I posted three new pieces, of of which is pictured to over there. I promised to offer jewelry for all spiritual beliefs, and here it goes. I created this piece during my first year as a jewelry crafter, and it is one of my favorites -- I hope it finds a good home!

Want to see what my fellow artisans are up to? Thought you'd never ask!

Artisan of the Day

This piece has a ton of character and is wonderfully crafted! If my knew for a fact that my daughter wouldn't try to bonk her brother on the head with it, I'd snap it up first thing, so now's your chance.
Celtic Knot Slate Tile from OakGrove

Artisan of the Day

Does Dad need to refresh his pimp hand? I think this ring might just do the trick!
It's sterling silver with dinosaur bone and inlaid black onyx and it's from HilemanSilverJewelry

Artisan of the Day

Now this is some great packaging! There's enough goodies in here to get lost in the bathtub for a month! And that's just okay with me!
Deluxe Personal Care Gift Set from Mill Creek Valley Farm

Well, off to devour some pizza with the Tiny Dancer! Have a great weekend!

Smile for the Camera!

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 15:17:15 GMT

Two new items over at GFT Designs @ Etsy.

Anyone who is a lover of deep blue will adore Avalon. I had a set of three of these briolettes two of which you'll see in my Sleeping Beauty Earrings, and this pendant sized stone kept getting misplaced over the past year. I would lose it and it would appear again, a few weeks later in the oddest places. Once, I even found it behind the microwave!

If you love the stories of Valdemar, you'll understand why I call these the Monarch's Own. These pretties are part of the hoop series of earrings I've been creating, coupling tiny little Swarovski crystal and sterling silver. There will be more coming soon, in all kinds of colors.

Now for my Artisans of the Day:

Artisan of the Day

For those of you who like to shower in the dark, I just have to show you this great glow in the dark soap from dugsshop.

Artisan of the Day

This is what I aspire to. This is a gorgeous aventurine pendan t from imperialdesignsjewelry. One day, folks, one day...

Artisan of the Day

The theme of the day is green, in case you haven't notice, and this is a perfect example of "green". This Tuscan Art gold ring by GreenORO is created out of 100% post consumer recycled gold. I love the delicate detail of this ring, and if I had the money laying around, I might make sure my husband never, ever forgot this Father's Day.

Okay, everyone go get to shopping or browsing ,and have a great day!

Gotta Love Weekends!

Sun, 31 May 2009 16:43:47 GMT

For some reason people love to shop with me on the weekends; which give me plenty of time to load new items and ship out the ones I've sold... great for all of you out there who think my fulfillment skillz suck.

Not much else to say today, so I'll just post by goodies for the day:

Artisan of the Day

It's Teaman!
I just love the way he packages his teas! He's an Etsian as well; put I thought highlighting his teas on ArtFire would give him a bit of a hand -- like he needs it!
BUYERS CHOICE 4 OUNCES LOOSE LEAF TEA IN GIFT TIN

Artisan of the Day

I want to get this for my Tiny Dancer!
CROCHET BAKING UTENSILS - PDF PATTERN from KTBDESIGNS

Artisan of the Day

Yes, Lavender can be eaten. This is the first time I've seen lavender used for something else besides a bath, body or home item, so I have to share!
ROYAL VELVET CULINARY LAVENDER from WILDBLOSSOM

Okay, I'm good for the day... Everyone have a great Sunday (unless it's another day where you are)

New Pieces

Fri, 29 May 2009 17:19:02 GMT

Celebrate Good Times!

Sun, 24 May 2009 17:13:30 GMT

I got accepted at 1000Markets, so now I have a new shop to show ya! Pretty little glitters abound over there... in fact, I will be moving ALL jewelry to this shop soon, so check it out.

And we all know what this means, right? Now I have three shops from where to feature beautiful products.

1000Markets Artisan for the Day

I don't care what anyone says... all babies are cute! These are great looking announcement to tell the world about your blessed event!
BLESSED - 25 BABY ANNOUNCEMENT PHOTO CARDS from DESIGNERPI

ArtFire Artisan for the Day

Perfect gift tags for Father's Day, especially that lucky gent's FIRST Father's Day!
SET OF 3 DIE CUT DAD GIFT TAGS from INMYMINDSEYE

Etsian for the Day

What can I say? It's alpacas.
ALPACA DUO 5X5 FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY from CameraSHYphotography

Just a Dash of Etsian of the Day...

Tue, 12 May 2009 14:13:27 GMT

Been burning my brain at both ends trying to get myself organized.... a lifelong struggle, let me tell you, and I'm done. Enough thinking in the box. Now I'm going to jump outside and play around in the land of Etsy and find me a wonderful little something to show you all:

Okay, I'm back. And boy did I find something unique and... well... Green!

It's actually a living pendant. This is great for those of us who live in apartments, but thirst for a little greenery that isn't plastic or silk in our lives. House plants are just fine, but this is truly a unique find.

2 Moss Pendants, Charms, Living Pendant, Terrarium Pendant, Green Moss by WarmCountryMeadows

Not Much Over Here...

Tue, 12 May 2009 01:58:59 GMT

Just making some minor adjustments to the shop. I tried hard and stood fast, and finally gave in that I have to charge shipping on all NON sample items. Because Etsy is stubborn about not setting up shipping to be more flexible, I've had to set my shipping prices based on a 1 pound package.

Of course, if you're a customer and your package doesn't weigh one pound, I'll refund the overage. Even you international guys; I hate that international shipments costs so much, but I still want to take care of ya to the best of my ability.

I've finally put it in my mind that I really want this to be my "full-time job" (other than raising 2 kids). I usually work through long-term goals in baby steps, so this I know this is going to take a bit of time. Until then, know that GreenFamilyTree is always going to be selling quality product at decent price points that will be mutually satisfactory.

So, now, how's about an Etsian of the Day?

Can someone show me how this is done? This is fan-tas-tic! It is a melted, flattened bottle... and of some of my favorite vodka! Isn't the photography beautiful as well? If I wasn't afraid my Tiny Dancer would break it, I'd buy it in a heart-beat!

Vanilla Absolut Vodka Bottle Cheese Plate by MitchellGlassworks

Talk to you all later!

Wed, 06 May 2009 18:19:09 GMT

I finally found a place to set up a newsletter sign up form. Go technologically-challenged me!

This newsletter is being designed as I type this, in my head of course! It's going to be full of cool stuff from GreenFamilyTree, more detailed musings than in this blog; tips, trick, ideas and -- most important, specials just for subscribers. Not sure how these specials are going to take form; perhaps special giveaways, super special savings, special reserve items for subscribers, but they will be only for you guys who sign up.

The newsletter will only come out four times a year: January, May, September, December. So, no, no endless spam to the email box.

You'll also have an opportunity to sign up for monthly coupons. These coupons are going to be really valuable, and only for people who sign up for them. They will range from 30% off to free items from the shop... for real!

I'm sure this newsletter will be the (or da) bomb. Yes, I still know all the lingo. (shush).

So go over there and sign up and become one of the Little Green Apples.

Now, for the Etsian of the Day!

So, I'm a serious bag geek... if it's a bag, purse, clutch, sack or tote I will at least look at it, if not buy it on the spot. I'm thinking this will be a great bag for me to carry my writing things in, along with some goodies for the Tiny Dancer, who's at the age where she more independent, but needs a little back up once in a while.

Summer Flowers Field Bag by rainbowswirlz

go get em!

First Giveaway Winner!

Tue, 05 May 2009 17:28:31 GMT

That's right! I have a winner!

The Winner of GFT's 1st ever giveaway is Jennifer Magnesi Designs. She wins her choice of the two pieces on this post and 30% off her first purchase at GreenFamilyTree! Go Jenn!

So I've release two more soaps to the world to be sampled and enjoyed!

The Empress' Own - Shea Butter/Yuzu - 2-3oz sample! Pretty jade green and great for the whole body!

Moisturize Ur Situation - Okay, this isn't new, but it's a re-release on an old favorite. This bars are a great size, 2-3oz, so you can sample a good long time!

Go get them while they're still hot!

In other news, some people would say that I'm working on my own website, but I'm still keeping my lips shut tight... hee.

Now for the Etsian of the Day, who also happens to be the giveaway winner!

Beautiful blue and coral, colors of spring! This bracelet looks to be a must for a spring/summer wardrobe!

Blue Jade and Coral Flower Bracelet by Jennifer Magnesi Designs

Till next time all!

As if I needed another blog...

Mon, 04 May 2009 16:35:42 GMT

I have to give my props to LJ, though. I started blogging back in 2000 with LJ, so I just had to have a GFT journal with LJ. Still the easiest blog to update and keep! Along with the other blogs, I'll be updating to here as well. So if you're on LJ, and are interested in All natural products for the home and soul, and love Etsy, check us out regularly!

What's New Ms. Magoo?

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 16:25:08 GMT

Allow me to introduce you to our little "family": Trust me, you'll enjoy it.

Grandma Helen: She's a lovely, spunky old lady, full of sass and vinegar. She believes in the old fashioned way of keeping your clothes clean -- all natural products and a little elbow grease!

Abuelita Lidia: Lidia is a little old lady who takes no mess from nobody! She armed with her broom and she's ready for any dust bunnie or soap scum anywhere.

Auntie Yvie: Girls, this auntie means business. Between her shopping trips and lazy, midday luncheons, she's busy developing these great, yummy soaps that will have those goodies sparkling clean and smelling sweet!

Cousin J's a Brooklyn girl all the way. She can't stand to see ashy, unhealthy skin. Her products makes sure your skin -- guy or gal -- is touchably soft and healthy. And if you don't like it? Too bad. :)

Then, there's Brother G and his collegue Dr. Korn Flake. Guys, you realize of course that there's goodies here for you too? I mean, really, if you don't keep that Pimp Hand clean, who's gonna give you the time of day? And, teens, let me tell you. When Dr. Korn Flake gets through with you, you'll understand what it's all about.

Tia Glaucia: What a cool, composed lady she is. Her house is a comfortable place that you'll never want to leave. Ever been in a house where everything has it's place, yet it's comfortable and "homey"? That's Tia Glaucia's house. And she wants to share it with you.

Sister Sookie: What a sassy gal. No one can keep Sookie contained, even though she always looks "put together". She's the one who likes long walks on the beach and picnics. She has this thing for the land of the Rising Sun, and is willing to bring the flavor of Japan to your long walk, your picnic, and even your lunch time!

Master B: He steps out of the works of Jane Austen. Cool, debonair, and chock full of wit. He wants you to nourish your mind -- and he's going to be opening his library to you.