Congratulations, Carolyn! Our September Featured Artist!

Thanks to those of you who participated in the online raffle for September (members got raffle points for buying our team charity pin and posting about it - see previous post).  After putting in everyone's points, and using a random number generator, the month long website shop feature prize goes to Carolyn with Carolyn's Jewelry.  Her chances for winning the raffle weren't hurt by the fact that she purchased four of our pins which gave her 20 chances to win.  Way to go, Carolyn!  Team member Char with Delight Crochet will be putting up your feature soon.

The September raffle prize will be given out at our next team meeting for those who enter the raffle on the 14th.  See you there!

Revised First Friday Vendor Opportunity

Due to the short notice and a recent bout of food poisening (yuck!) I am revising the Multi-Vendor opportunity at Studio 8 Ten. We will be postponing the strat of the event until October First Friday. If you are interested in setting up a table ot tent at Studio 8 Ten on First Fridays in October, November, and December, please let me know ASAP! I am going to make this opportunity available for Handmade in Vegas members ONLY until WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8th. If space is not filled by members at that time, I will be opening it up to artists and crafters in general. We are currently being considered to be added as a trolley stop by the First Friday committee at this time, which will be great for these three months, especially if we have a drop off area that is busy, full of vendors, and activities! We will also welcome interest from face painters, live painters, and local musicians!

The cost for all three dates is $30, and that includes promotion, the cost of the trolley, and food/beverages for guests.

We can accomodate 10 tents in the parking lot (10x10 spaces), 3- 6ft tables on the patio, and 4- 5ft tables inside the studio (provided).

All sign-up sheets and payment must be received at Studio 8 Ten by September 15th.

Please email me as soon as possible to let me know you are interested. We are excited to host Handmade in Vegas at our studio, and meet everyone involved with this super fab group!

Angela Esler-Whelan
Studio 8 Ten, Project manager
amesler@hotmail.com

Just Introducing Ourselves...

Hello ladies and gentlemen!

This is Brandy and Julie from Spill the Beans. We have met so many of you already but we want to take the opportunity to introduce ourselves. We make pretty much anything and everything :) We love making home decor, hair accessories and handmade invitations. Recently, we have started hosting our own shows after being burned by too many other shows.

For those of you that attended our Christmas in July show, you have met us and hopefully agree that our show was successful. We are planning our second show for November 20, 2010 and have already posted that vendor opportunity. We look forward to working with all of you and hope that everyone is successfully selling this holiday season!

<3 Brandy and Julie
spillthebeansetc@gmail.com

Craft and Gift Boutique Sign-Ups!

Hello Crafters,
We are holding our second Craft Boutique of the 2010 season.
We would love to have you join us! Please read the following and if you
are interested, email us a photo example of your work, and your
location preference, and we will forward you an application. If a photo
is not possible, we would love to set up a time to meet with you and see
your goodies!
Items: All items MUST be approved by us! NO EXCEPTIONS!
Liability: We are not responsible for any lost, damaged or
stolen items. We will take the utmost care of your beautiful
handcrafted items.
The craft fair will take place:
Date: Sat. November 20th, 2010 11am -4pm
Location: Lamplight Village (95 and Durango) 7900 Meandering
Path Las Vegas, Nv. 89131
Entrance Fee:
Indoors: $50.00 which includes advertisement, one 6-ft
table (if needed) and no percentage of sale fees to us!
Back Patio: $25.00 which includes advertisement, one 6-ft table (if needed) and no percentage of sale fees to us!
Grass Park Area: $35.00 (bring your 10x10 EZ-Up) which includes advertisement, one 6-ft table (if needed) and no percentage of sale fees to us! Feel free to jam pack your 10x10 space with all of your handcrafted goodies including shelves, grid rack, etc. (Please contact us for information on sharing your EZ-Up space with an additional vendor.)
Please have payments in by Tuesday, October 12, 2010 to allow time for advertisements and reservation fees. We accept cash, check, money orders and paypal.
Set Up: Set up will be Saturday, November 20st. 10am – 11am
Sales: You are responsible for payments and sales at your booth.

Thank you for your interest in the Holiday Craft and Gift Show. Feel free to contact us for more info and we hope to see you there!

Brandy Decker 702-523-8197
Julie Mirth 702-586-0193
spillthebeansetc@gmail.com

Artist Boutique in Boulder City - Rent a Space

This is an opportunity to sell your crafts in a local store and skip the hassle of dragging everything around to craft fairs.  I met the owners of Eclectica at First Friday and it sounds like a really cool place.  It's a shop in Boulder City where artists can rent space per month and sell their artwork in the shop.  Rates start at only $20 a month and go up depending on how much space you'd like.  The shop is Eclectica and here's a link to their site.  The owners are both super friendly and energetic and have just moved to a new location for more space.  They are also very interested in supporting local artists.  I'm probably going to give it a try for a few months and see how it goes.  This is also a great way to expose your product to other local artists and get some more traffic to your Etsy shop.

Boulder City Airport Shop Looking for Local Art Talent

Hi all, I just found this on Craigslist.  Might be a good option for some of you!

We're looking for local artists who are interested in displaying thier artwork in our gift shop. We have reserved a section just for "Local Artists". Hundreds of customers pass through here every day and they are looking for unique items. Your items would be sold on a commission basis. If interested, please call Debbie at 702-638-3216 for more details. 

Fine Artist Free Vendor Opportunity

This one is only for the "fine artists" not the crafters (read below for more details).  First Friday is celebrating it's 8th anniversary and is looking to display some of Vegas's finest fine artists.  Here's the complete information:

Henderson Art Association Speaker - Learn How to Market Your Work!

I know we've got a few members who are members of the Henderson Art Association and it's a great group of talent.  Everyone and their dog is invited to their September event which should not disappoint.  Here's the information:

Vendor Opp - Indi Insti

Another vendor opp passed on from team member Camille:

http://www.indiinsti.com/EXPO.html

Pahrump Vendor Opportunity

Sorry this in all caps, guys - it's what was emailed to me!
_________________________________

IM DOING  A SCHOOL FUNDRAISER AT THIS SCHOOL.. IM LOOKING FOR VENDOR OR CRAFTERS WHO MIGHT WANT TO SET UP A TABLE HERE AND SELL THERE PRODCUTS.. ALSO NEED A FACE PAINTER AND BALLOONS TOO.. 
 
IM ALSO TAKING ANY KIND OF DONATIONS SUCH AS CERTIFICATES FROM RESTAURANTS OR BUSINESSES WHO MAY NOT WANT TO SET UP A BOOTH... THE CERTIFICATE AMOUNT CAN BE WHAT EVER YOU CAN AFFORD... 
 
OR IF YOU HAVE ANY THING SUCH AS GOODIE BASKETS YOU WANT TO MAKE UP WITH PRODUCTS IN THERE AND POST YOUR CARD ON IT TOO... THESE ITEMS WILL BE RAFFLED OFF DURING THIS EVENT.. 
 
I WILL BE FILLING UP 200 GOODIE BAGS MYSELF WITH PROMOTIONAL ITEMS IN THEM FROM DIFFERENT BUSINESSES ALL AROUND TOWN.. IF YOU'D LIKE TO DONATE TO THE BAGS THIS WOULD BE GREAT THERE IS NO CHARGE TO YOU TO DO THIS IT IS FREE.. 
 
PLEASE FORWARD ANYTHING TO ME AT TRICIA DOMBROWSKI
4021 NORWAY DRIVE
PARHUMP NV 89048
 
QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS CONTACT ME..
 807-6776

Giveaway For August - September

Hi everyone. I just want to invite you all to visit my blog for our monthly giveaway and product review. This months featured artist is Studio 8 Ten...they are giving away a gift basket full of these bath and body goodies...please visit my blog pinkbearfad.blogspot.com for more details.

Only Five Spaces Left for the Mt. Charleston Holiday Show

Hello everyone. I just wanted to let the team know that there are only five spaces left for the November 21st show. If you are debating about whether or not to participate, you might want to make a decision soon. The hotel promised that we will be the only vendors, so no mass produced surprises this time. It already feels like fall up here. I think it's in the 60's!!! We've had some really cool nights. We had a long, late winter last year. I hope we don't have an early winter this year!!! As for weather conditions on the day of the show, I can' t promise it will be clear, but there is usually no problem making it to the hotel regardless. We'll all be warm and toasty inside!!!

September Newsletter

I'll be working on the September newsletter this weekend. If you know of a sale you'll be having in September (back to school sale, autumn sale, etc.) please email me, and I'll include it in the newsletter. It doesn't have to be a sale for the entire month. You could do a weekend deal, Labor Day sale, or something for one week. Email me at scrivenersretreat@cox.net, and I will add it to the newsletter. The deadline is August 31.

Craft Show Checklist

Found this site on the web with great craft show tips.  I know there were several people who mentioned to me they hadn't done craft shows before, so I thought you might like a handy list to prepare for the upcoming craft shows.

Craft Show Checklist

Etsy Inventory Spreadsheet

In the Storque Blog there is a link to a great spreadsheet that someone created.  I took that spreadsheet and tweaked it a bit.  This new one only shows the etsy and papal fees if you actually list and/or sell the item.  I also added subtotals at the bottom of the materials price and item price columns showing that this is what cash has been outlayed, and the total value of the inventory.  I am attaching the link below.  If anyone wants to use this, and needs help tweaking it to fit their needs, feel free to email me.  HappyBugDesigns@cox.net.

Etsy Inventory Spreadsheet

Harvest Craft Festival

Just wanted to let you know that Suzanne Lugano is organizing a small harvest craft fair on 10/2- booth spaces are only $25 & are limited to only 20 vendors, so first come first served. You can contact her via EMAIL: zanngoprod@gmail.com

Karla Kelley
KelleyAccents.etsy.com

Only 9 Spots Left for the November Mt. Charleston Show

I just wanted to let everyone know that as of tonight, there are only nine spaces left for the holiday show on November 21st. If you were thinking of being in the show, I suggest you pay ASAP. Once the spots are filled, I will have a waiting list and if someone drops out, you can take his/her spot.

Vendor Opportunity- First Fridays at Studio 8 Ten

I want to invite everyone to participate in "ETSY Live!" at Studio 8 Ten every First Friday through the Holiday Season (Sept.-Dec.). For those of you who don't know, Studio 8 Ten is a very unique art studio and gift shop located at 810 South Las Vegas Blvd, adjacent to the Arts District. It is within our studio that we change lives daily for members of our community who are intellectually disabled by providing them with training and employment related to designing, creating, and selling handmade products. We have our own line, over 50 products strong, and serve over 250 people in Las Vegas and Henderson, with 5 training locations city-wide. Studio 8 Ten is our "showplace" that is open to the public, and products made at all of our locations are sold.

We have been participating in First Fridays since we opened in 2008 and have seen the best traffic when we open our doors, patio, and parking lot to other artisans to sell their stuff. Our main motivation to doing this is to drive traffic to our studio so we can tell more people about what we do, as well as connect with other artists in Las Vegas, so our rates are ridiculously reasonable for the space.

This year we will be accepting 12 tent set ups for our back parking lot (10x10), 3 table set-ups (bring your own table, up to 6 ft.) for the front patio (facing Las Vegas Blvd), and 4 interior tables (we will provide) that are approx. 5 ft long. Because this is such short notice, we will be offering the spaces for $30 for 4-months...yes, you heard right, a TOTAL of $30 for 4 months! Last year we did $10 per month, but since this is such short notice for Sept., we are basically offering that month free with a 4-month committment. If you can't make all 4 months, you can sublet your space for any month you cannot attend. The hours are 6-9PM.

The money will be used for flyers, advertising, and food/drinks during the First Friday hours. We do ask that EVERYONE participating helps with advertising by telling people you know about the event, and handing out flyers, etc., at places you frequent, facebooking, blogging, etc.

I have applications at Studio 8 Ten that will be available this Saturday, August 28th, from 5-8PM, and during our regular hours next week, 10AM-6PM. Applications and payments must be received by Wednesday, September 1st at 3PM. The First Friday of September is the 3rd. Please contact me via email with any questions!

Thanks,

Angela Esler-Whelan
Studio 8 Ten
amesler@hotmail.com

Deciphering the S.E.O code

Have you ever googled or binged your etsy product? (Go on, do it now, you know you want to). I’m not talking about your exact store title, I’m talking your product. Now if you are one of the lucky ones, who has wittingly mastered the art of the S.E.O, congratulations! You can go back to making your handcrafted goodies knowing that you have conquered one of the biggest Etsy selling hurdles. However, if you are sitting in front of the computer with your mouth hanging open and a heavy heart wondering “how can this be, why did this Etsy shop pop up and not mine?”; you are not alone.

Etsy wants it’s sellers to be successful. So much so, that they have teamed up with Search Engine Optimization experts, SEOmoz to help Etsy sellers decipher the S.E.O code. SEOmoz has put together an “Etsy guide to S.E.O”. This concept is very different from “Etsy Tagging”. This concept is about getting your store to be on page one of the Google search return when someone Googles the product you sell. Impossible? Maybe. Am I going to try…definitely!

Now, if you don’t understand the concept of computer interfaces and how they translate computer language (code) the SEO guide can be a little daunting. They do give offer a quick explanation on how it all works and why it’s so important to understand it. You will need to dedicate some serious time to read the guide and alter your shop accordingly.

Here is a bit of what I learned-

Title tag- The most important piece of info that the search engine reads. Be sure to fill the title tag full of “keywords” that will not only describe your item but keywords that are popular on the internet for searches. ie; handmade, chic, affordable. Google has a tool, Google Adwords that can help you sort out which keywords will work best for your description. You’ll want to choose words that have over 1,000 searches but very little competition.

Meta description- also known as your shop announcement is almost as important as the title tag. Again, fill it with those keywords that Google Adwords suggested that will help reinforce your title.

Pictures- (you’re going to see a pattern here) Name your pictures with a keyword filled description. The guide states that “Recently, we’ve found that the use of keyword rich image alt text correlates with higher rankings in the search engines.” Every little bit helps.

So what does this all mean? Hopefully, more sales. Both my stores are relatively new and I’m just not getting the traffic that I’d like. I really feel that this is one more step in the right direction. I implemented these afore mentioned changes to my site about a month ago. Thanks to Google Analytics, I found that most of my RoyalicingLV traffic comes from Google searches. I even got an order today for 3 dozen cookies. I asked how she found out about me and she said “google”.

Vendor Opportunity

Upcoming Events~! October 9, 2010 10-3pm Aliante Library 2400 West Deer Springs Way North Las Vegas, Nevada 89084 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ November 6, 2010 10-3pm Aliante Library 2400 Wesr Deer Springs Way North Las Vegas, Nevada 89084 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ November 20, 2010 10-3pm Sun City Macdonald Ranch 2020 West Horizon Ridge Pkwy Henderson, Nevada 89012 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ December 18, 2010 10-3pm Los Prados Golf & Country Club 5150 Los Prados Circle Las Vegaxs, Nevada 89130 DOWNLOAD FLIER JPEG Join Our Mailing List UPCOMING EVENTS CLICK ON THE EVENT TO GET THE CONTRACT/FLIER ALIANTE OCT 9 10-3PM SOLD OUT OCT 9 FLIER ALIANTE NOV 6 10-3PM SUN CITY MACDONALD NOV 20 10-3PM NOV 20 FLIER LOS PRADOS DECEMBER 18 10-3PM Marketplace Expos Meetup Group~! We have a Meetup Group that meets once a month and also keeps members updated on all events, contracts and more~! The cost to join us is 25.00 a year~! Our website is at www.Meetup.com/MarketplaceExpos

Contest Time!!

It's time again for another contest! The bad news? My computer has been in the shop and I've been unable to post this month's contest. The good news: Entries are due at the end of September, so you have a whole month left to work on your opus!

This month's theme is "Beat the Heat". It is SO hot outside! This time every year, Las Vegans start doing anything they can to keep their minds and bodies distracted from the heat. So, let your contest submission reflect that. Maybe an umbrella, maybe ice cream, maybe swimming. Whatever you choose, your entry's only rule is that it reminds you of a cooler time.

Entries are due on September 30 at 11:59pm. Good Luck!

All Fur Love Animal Society Raffle Request

Hi Team - Thought I'd throw this opportunity out there to support a local no-kill cat shelter.  It's called "All Fur Love" and they are relatively new and looking to get some local support.  They are holding an event on September 18th (a bike/run/dinner) and will also have a raffle.  The company president, Darci Pfeiffer asked me to see if any of us are willing to donate any thing (cat-related would be best) to their raffle.  I've donated one of my plush cats and I know there are many others of you who support local rescues.  It's a great cause.  If you are interested in donating, contact Darci to arrange a drop off time and location.  Here email is info@allfurloveanimalsociety.org.  You can also reach her at  702.362.5617.  The organization's website is at: www.allfurloveanimalsociety.org


Here is a a link to the event information
And another link to the raffle request

A Nice Compliment for the Handmade in Vegas Team

I was talking to a neighbor up here on Mt. Charleston. She said she has heard only raving reviews from people who went to our show (and she contributed to the good reviews). People said they are usually disappointed at shows because there is so much "junk", but that all our goods were quality and lovely. I just thought I'd pass that along. Way to go, Team!!!

Vendor Opportunity in Henderson Dec. 10 & 11

Here's a link to a Vendor Opportunity at Henderson's Winter Arts Festival:

http://www.visithenderson.com/todo/special-events/winterfest

Team Directory Book

Hi Handmade in Vegas Team!


Sarah has come up with another great idea. We are going to put together a binder that showcases each and every team member. Each team member will get one page to create about themselves and their store. You can put whatever you want on this page. Ideas include a photo, your shop logo, info about you, your crafting experience, photos of items in your store, etc.


You are all artists in one way or another, so I am sure you can ramp up your creativity and show us what you’ve got. Maybe we can do a contest for the most creative page.


You can just do this on the computer, or add thin embellishments like stickers, photos, glitter, etc. We don’t want thick embellishments to take up a lot of room in the book. Each page will go into an 8.5” x 11” page protector.


If you can please bring your page to an upcoming meeting, we will get you included in the book. The book will be organized by type of vendor, as it is on the Handmade in Vegas website. The book will be brought to the various team events, and it is a chance for your fellow team members to get to know you and what you have to offer. Potential customers will see this too.


I am also looking to have some business card pages in the binder so that you can put some of your business cards in there too.

If you have any questions or suggestions, you can reach me at HappyBugDesigns@cox.net


Thanks!
Marti aka "HappyBug"

CSN Event

If anyone already has a spot at CSN but needs someone to share the cost/time, please contact me at missjerifoley@aol.com
Thanks!  Jeri

September Team Meeting

RSVP HERE

Friday, September 17, 2010 from 7-8:30 pm

Findlay Chevrolet Community Room

6800 S Torrey Pines Dr 

Las Vegas, NV

Our September team meeting is all scheduled in the community room of Findlay Chevrolet! We're having a Friday evening meeting due to scheduling conflicts but hope that we can still get a great turnout from the team.

The meeting will include:

• Presentations from some of our team's top Etsy sellers in which they discuss what they've learned about how to run a booming, healthy Etsy shop with Q&A
• Presentation from Team Co-Leader Heather Pyle about how to secretly give away art.
• A destash table - bring any supplies you don't need and feel free to bring home someone else's extra.
• Raffle Table - anyone can donate to the raffle, bring the item with you to the meeting. Also, the September raffle will feature one of Eric (Stone Wizard's) popular stone cutting boards. Grand prize remains the month long feature on the front page of our team website
• Our Origami Crane Pins will also be available for purchase at this meeting for $5 each.

Treats are always appreciated. If you can bring some munchies to share, that would be fabulous. Drinks will be provided.

As always, this meeting is open to the public. Hope to see you all there!  And a big thanks to Rochelle for suggesting this location for us.  We've booked here for all of 2011 for the 2nd Tuesday of each month.

RSVP HERE

Mount Charleston Holiday Show Contracts

Here is the link to the contract for our next team show on November 21st at Mt. Charleston.  This is event is open to vendors on the Handmade in Vegas team only.  Non  team members are not being considered at this time.  Because of the limited space, the sooner you get in your application, the better your chance at participating.  Jewelry makers, this means you!

DO YOU NEED GRID WALL?

I found a resource for used, black grid wall, 2' x 6'. When I picked mine up, she said they had about 500 panels. If you are interested, call:

Halloween Mart
6230 S. Decatur
740-4224

Mount Charleston Holiday Show is good to go

We have been approved for Sunday, November 21st, at the Resort at Mount Charleston. It will be an exclusive show with no vendors but our own. However, since it is an indoor show, we will be limited in space. Each vendor will be limited to a six foot table area either in the Aspen Room (where we were indoors for the August event) or the lobby. Only about five tables can fit in the lobby, and possibly fourteen(fifteen if we are really lucky) in the Aspen Room. Since it is a limited venue, it will be on a first come, first paid basis. We will not extend this show to vendors other than Handmade in Vegas unless not enough people sign up!!!Also, types of vendors will be limited so that we have a variety of types of artisans. The cost will be the same--$50, but we won't have as much to use for advertising as we did for the August show, so once again, I will have to rely upon you to also spread the word. I will be posting applications by tomorrow, so the sooner you get it in and paid, the better your chances of being in the show. I'm looking forward to another great show!!!

Ongoing Volunteer Opportunities - ArtsWalk and First Friday

If you are looking for ways to contribute to the team, these are some great, fun options.  Volunteering at either of these events if very beneficial to the team and is also a fun night out in the middle of the local arts community.


ArtsWalk: Team Table - Every month we need a volunteer to man the team table at the third Thursday craft event.   Whoever is at the team table is welcome to take half of the six foot table to sell their own craft items.  The other half of the table will be for team materials and team sales items.  A volunteer is needed from 4:30 till 8pm each month.  If interested, please email sarahflake@gmail.com and let me know which month(s) you can volunteer.  Your table fee will be paid for out of the team fund.  For more information on the event, please visit the ArtsWalk website at www.hendersonartswalk.com

First Friday: Event Volunteer  First Friday is the biggest art event going on in Las Vegas with over 10,000 in attendance.  Many of our team members sell their art at this event which is located in the heart of the Las Vegas arts district.  The organization that puts on the event does so on a volunteer basis and is always in dire need of more volunteers to help them during the evening.  Our group hopes to provide volunteers to help run this event.  You will be assigned to either man the information table with promotional items to pass out or sell water at their water station to raise funds to put on the event.  Ideally, we would have at least one volunteer from our team for each month and our team could be a sort of sponsor for this awesome art event.  First Friday runs the first friday of each month, year round from 5-10 pm.  Volunteers would need to arrive at The Funk House at 1228 South Casino Center Boulevard Las Vegas, NV 89104-1016 at 5pm to receive their assignment and stay until the event ends at 10pm.  This would be a really fun "date night" as well if you want to bring you significant other along.  If you are able to volunteer on behalf of our team, please email sarahflake@gmail.com with the month you can volunteer as well as a phone number and email address the event coordinators can reach you at.

Team Maintenance and Assistance:  The team always needs volunteers to take on team maintenance responsibilities.  If you have any skills with web design, blogs, or internet savvy in general, there is a lot of behind the scenes upkeep our team requires.  Stuff like posting vendor opportunities, maintaining our team calendar, writing scheduled posts on assigned topics, etc.  If interested, please email sarahflake@gmail.com and let me know what you skills are and how much responsibility you could take on.

Vendor Opportunity - Oct. 16th, Anthem

Another vendor opportunity.  Looks like the gift giving season is in full swing!  The Fresh52 Farmer's market will also be migrating for this event.  They do great publicity and this is a swanky area so it could be very worth it.

Here's the application.  Contact Greg (info on application) with questions.

Pink Stuffed Owl Giveaway

Hi Everyone,

Just wanted to share an opportunity to win a sweet, pink owl from my shop.  The fabulous Alexa of Jaebumfangirl is hosting a blog giveaway for the Flaky Friends (and help my SEO in the process!).  Click here to enter and for a chance to win Whoo Loves You Owl!

Vendor Opportunity - Green Girl Festival

Thanks for passing this on, Natalie!

GREEN GIRL MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

The Green Girl Music & Arts Festival takes place October 15^th. – 18^th.   at various venues and locations in Las Vegas and Southern Nevada. The purpose of the festival is to spotlight and empower women in music and the arts, while at the same time helping to raise awareness about the need to green our communities and planet by reusing, repurposing, reducing and recycling.

The festival will feature local as well as touring female musicians, artists, dancers, poets, dancers and film makers. Eco information booths, demonstrations, an eco fashion show, speakers, crafters, educational exhibits and vendors. The event is being produced by WorldFolk, and DR Promotions. Sponsored in part by Music Connection Magazine and Sam Ash Music. The Festival is open to all ages and genres. If you would like to be a sponsor, vendor, venue, perform, speak, table, read poetry, show your art/film, or for more information, contact us at 702-648-8051 or greengirlmusicandartsfestival@yahoo.com

 www.greengirlmusicandartsfestival.com

--- ADDITIONAL INFORMATION UPDATE --- (thanks, Marlene)

Three helpful vendor links: 

Being a Vendor

Vendor Information Packet

Vendor Application. 

 Please fill out and return with payment by Friday, September 3rd, 5:00 PM to the contact located on the vendor application.

www.greengirlmusicandartsfestival.com
greengirlmusicandartsfestfounder@yahoo.com
www.facebook.com/greengirlmusicandartsfestival
www.facebook.com/lasvegasgreengirl
www.twitter.com/greengirlmusic 

Contact them directly for more information or with questions.

Mount Charleston Holiday Show

It seems like most people want November 21st for our holiday show. People will just be too tied up at the malls Thanksgiving weekend. Also, they may have run out of money by Sunday!!! This way we will hit them BEFORE they shop the malls!!!! I think the same hours 10-4 or 10-5 would work. I'm just waiting on a confirmation from the hotel before I set things in motion.

Update on Possible Mount Charleston show

The date I originally proposed is not open at the hotel. In fact, the ONLY two days they do have open are Sundays---November 21st and November 28th. One is before Thanksgiving and one is Thanksgiving weekend. The only available Saturday is December 4th. I am leary of a December date mainly because of the possibility of snow. If we get snow win November, it usually doesn't stick or close the road. Please give me some feedback on these two dates. Thanks.

Vendor Opportunity - Simply Shopping Oct. 9th Henderson

I just got an email about an event on October 9th with the Henderson Vendor Expo.  I've never done an event with them (Michelle, Katie and Amanda) but this event looks like it has some real potential.  Only $40 for a 10x10 space and about 80 vendors at a great location on a busy Henderson road.  Here's what they emailed me:

THIS SHOW STILL HAS VENDOR SPACE

I have signed up for this show, and as of an hour ago, she still had 10 spaces left, if anyone is interested.

http://manicuremagic.vpweb.com/Events.html

Great Article about Search Engine Optimization

Hi Guys, I've been doing a lot of researching lately about how to have my items show up on Google searches. Right now, I've got almost no traffic coming from Google. I found this article today that I thought was really specific and helpful about how to make your listings optimal for Google to find. Hope this helps someone else as well!

http://crochetgals.blogspot.com/2009/08/search-engine-optimization-for-dummies.html

Vendor Opportunity and Gingerbread House Contest

I know many of you heard about this at the Mt. Charleston event, but for those who haven't, here is the website with information about a December 10th event.

http://bcgingerbreadhouse.com/

It's a Gingerbread house contest as well as a craft fair in Boulder City.  Check the website for details.  Spaces are 10x10' and begin at $75 for the one day event running from 11am to 8pm.  I know a few of our team members have already decided to participate.  The organizer's name is Rudi and he can be reached at BCgingerbread@embarqmail.com.   Here's a blurb from the event organizer about the advertising he's doing to promote:

I am in contact with Channel 2 in B.C., I have placed advertising in the Shopper for Henderson and B.C, I have purchased an ad in the Boulder City Magazine starting in Oct. thru Nov. I am in contact with Jack at the Boulder City paper for a news release beginning in Nov. I am also buying time on the large digital billboard at the entrance to B.C.

Fall Is Coming???

http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4c69f4585bf38eefec37bb9c/fall-is-coming

Possible Holiday Show in Mt. Charleston

Hello everyone. I am working on setting up a possible holiday show for us at the hotel. They did very well in food and beverage sales at our show August 8th. They promised that this time we could be the exclusive vendors.
I know there are a zillion shows around this time, so the only weekend I could see where no other big shows were happening is the weekend of November 13, which is the week of Veteran's Day. I'm trying hard for a Saturday, but I haven't heard back from them yet. We shouldn't have snow yet, so the weather wouldn't' interfere with people getting to the mountain.
The bad news is that we cannot have as many vendors as there is only inside space at that time of t e year. I would have to limit the types of vendors as well (ie: fewer jewelers, one body lotion vendor one fiber arts, etc). I guess the best way to do this would be to do it on a first come, first paid basis. I don't see why people couldn't double up on a six foot table to increase our vendor size, but everyone would have to pay an entry fee to help advertising costs.
Anyway, I'm just running it by you to see what you think. We would definitely keep this one limited to our team.

From Handcrafted Jewelry Blog

Happy Sunday. Just wanted to share my latest blog post. Hope everyone is looking forward to the new week with a light heart and happiness. Enjoy!

Good Sunday Morning to everyone! I attended the craft fair at Mt. Charleston and what great fun! It was my first one. Although I didn't sell much I learned a lot and I even loved the rain. We don't get much here in Pahrump. I am all revved up and working on my Esty shop. I will be combining 3 shops into one. One of the reasons I am doing this is I have dedicated my shop to my sister. All profits will go to her. She has ovarian cancer. She is by herself and has lost her job and has no income at this point. She has qualified for Social Security disability but payments don't start until December. You have to wait 5 months before you can get it. In the meantime she is losing her home. Although she has been paying on it for 14 years the mortgage company will not work with her unless she has income. Pretty scary when you think how an illness can devastate you. Anyhow I am excited and hopeful that I will get lots of sales. Wish me luck!

Prices Negotiable?

Are your prices ever negotiable? I've had several Alchemy requests recently. Some are for a LOT less than I would be willing to accept and some are close enough to my price range that I make (and usually "win") a bid. My prices are generally set close to my competition. I would say I am in the mid to high range on my products. I do feel the quality surpasses some of the lesser (and even comparable) priced items. So with all the competition (cape makers are popping up left and right -- there were 4 total when I started last year) I think I need to be flexible if someone prefers me to someone else.

So, I'd like to know if your prices are set in stone or are you willing to let things go for a little less?

I would have posted this to the message board, but I can not access it for some reason! lol.

KatiesCapes

Upcycled Christmas Candy Shop

Here is my newest listing that I made out of an old Nativity from the thrift store.  I wanted to try doing a really detailed room.  It was fun to do......but I think I'll have to hide it from my two year old.

Megan Dresback (From Fragments To Furniture & Beyond)

Tweeting Team Treasuries

This was in yesterday's Etsy mailer:
"Play the Etsy Team Treasury game on Twitter! Make a team-themed treasury and tweet the link with the tag #EtsyTeamTreasury."

No mention of any particular prize, though as HappyBug explains below, there's certainly value in the promo!

I've yet to make a treasury myself, but since 3 of my pieces have been curated by other Handmade in Vegas Team members, I tweeted those links.

Here are tiny urls I secured for each (in case anyone else included would like to tweet, too):

http://tinyurl.com/onyxinvegas - by StellaPearl
http://tinyurl.com/vegastheme - by FlakyFriends
http://tinyurl.com/yellowvegas - by CarolynsJewelry

Thanks, ladies!
-Cybele
Cybelesque

Check it out!

Sorry I have been off for a few weeks with some family concerns that dominated all my time. Now things are getting back on track and there is much catching up to do.

I want to THANK ALL who sent well wishes via Facebook. It really means a lot to know there are people out there cheering you on when the road gets rocky. All your prayers and concerns were much appreciated. You folks ROCK! Thanks again.

My latest article for The Henderson Art Craft Examiner was published. I hope you will enjoy it and share it with everyone. Happy Weekend to all our teammates! You're the best.

See Our New Line Of Driftwood Supplies

 

We have a new line of driftwood supplies at Adrift Art Studio. Natural and raw, driftwood from the Great Lake Michigan. Dried in the hot desert sun of Las Vegas and ready for all the wonderful art and craft people on Etsy.com. This is just one sample, see our shop for more.

New Article for crafters

Just published this one, send some love!

New Team Treasury

Well this week's Team Treasury was a bit harder than most.  Not only was there so much cuteness to choose from, but items I selected kept getting sold before I could publish the treasury.  This theme was suggested by one of our expecting team members.  Please leave any suggestions for future treasuries in the comments.  And remember, anyone can create and post these treasuries.

Please follow the link to the treasury, and click on all of the photos, and leave a comment on Etsy too. This will keep the treasury higher in the ratings, which means the possibility of more shop visits for everyone. Have a lucky Friday the 13th!    Cootchie, Cootchie Coo

What's new in our shop?

Visit our blog to see what is in the works at Adrift Art Studio.

Recycled Paper Pendants by Earth Expressions

Hello dear Team!

Nothing like bring a new life to my old recycled magazines turning its pieces into lovely pendants, encasing their cute images in shiny glossy resin... fun to wear and great for any jewelry collection :)


Handmade in Vegas with so much love and dedication using my special collection of images from old recycled magazines, pieces of wood and jewelry grade resin .... Inspired by the colors, themes and beauty of them, they are very unique, I can't remake identical ones unless I put my hands on another identical magazine ;)

You will love them...

... And you can find them at Earth Expressions

Peace & Love,

Susy

Updates to CSN Vendor Applications

Dear Team,

We've received new information from the coordinator for the CSN Fall Fun Fest who hopes to make it even easier for more of us to participate.  Please also use this post to swap comments and arrange booth sharing.  Again, these special accommodations are only for Handmade in Vegas group members.  Non-team members should use the application found on the event website here.

Mary Thomas, the coordinator of the event, came to our event at Mt. Charleston and was so tremendously impressed with our group that she is offering even more ways for us to participate in her event. If you have not yet applied for this event but want to, please do so ASAP. Our deadline for application is August 15th and you'll need to first get your insurance certificate (could do in 24 hours) to submit with your application.

These are the changes she is willing to make in order to accommodate more of our group:

1. Increase Vendors Per Application: While there is still a limit of 2 per 10x10 booth at any one time, she is willing to let three people submit one application so that if they want to break up the days, they are able to do that. For example, two people would work Friday and Saturday, then a third person could work alone on Sunday. All three could not vend together on the same day though. For the 10x20 size booth, up to four people are allowed on one application. Again, only two per day, but up to four people could be included on the application for the 10x20' space.

2. Proxy Sales: If you cannot make the event, but still would like your stuff sold there, you can have someone else sell for you. You don't personally have to be in your booth. This means you could find another team member who is selling their wares and have them sell your stuff as well. You would work out with your booth partner how to split the costs. This would be a good option for someone without very much inventory.

3. Two Day Event Option: She has decided as well that because so many of us didn't want to do all three days, she would offer a two day option for us. The two day option would be for Friday and Saturday. Everyone who would be selling for just those two days would be in one area and would close up on Saturday night. The cost remains the same. Please indicate on your application if you would like the two day option.

4: Pre-Selling Items: Another idea she had for those who didn't feel they had enough product to sell was to bring samples to the event and take orders from customers to complete and deliver later. This would be a great opportunity to pre-sell Christmas and Holiday items. So you don't actually have to be selling on the days of the fair - you can be pre-selling items you'll promise to make in the future.

5. Use Your Own Canopy: For those of you who would prefer to use your own tents rather than the event tents, you are welcome to do so. But the cost of the space remains the same whether you are using the tent provided by CSN or your own tent. If you are brining your own tent, please make sure it is the standard 10x10 size.

Event Information: She also wants everyone to know about what's going to be happening at the event. Here's her run down:
On Friday we are going to open the fest with a celebrtion for Nevada Day and special discounts for military, veterans, UNLV, Educational institutes, clubs/organziations etc. Saturday is Halloween driven with us providing each vendor with candy to give out to the Metro "Safe Trick or Treat" from 4PM - 7PM. Kids will be coming in costumes with their parents and there will be a costume contest. But we are providing the candy!!! We also have major announcements on the concerts coming soon for Friday/Saturday. Sunday is seniors, CCSD, charities (database driven).

Marketing/Projected Traffic: Here's her description of their marketing and anticipated traffic: Our is a much bigger event with lots of targeted markets, lots of partnership for advetising like Cox Communications, TV and Radio partners PLUS we had a built in marketplace with 45,000 studetns and 2,800 faculty. So between the advetising and marketing campaigns and our students (who by the way are from 18 to 75 with majority of them between 20-40 years of age), we are expecting over 10,000.


I realize that many of you have already submitted your applications for this event and may now have questions regarding modifying your application so close to the deadline. Please contact Mary Thomas directly to arrange any changes. You can email her at fallfunfest@csn.edu. She can also answer any other questions you may have regarding this event.

Here are the relevant links:

1. Vendor Insurance (flat rate of $52.50)
Fill out this form and return it along with your payment to Rhonda Tomic at:

Rhonda Tomic
Account Executive - Commercial Insurance
Orgill/Singer & Associates, Inc.
8360 W. Sahara Ave., Suite 110
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Tel (702)796-9100; Fax (702)796-6834
Direct (702)968-9154
Please make your check payable to "Francis L Dean & Associates"

2. Handmade in Vegas event application
3. Terms and Conditions (very important to read, sign, and return with your application)
4. Layout of event
5. One Time Sales Tax Form
6. Event Website

In her dreams, she'd love to have each and every one of us there - i'm really happy that she's bending over so far to accommodate our group. The changes above are a direct result of our great showing at Mt. Charleston and how impressed she was with the vendors there. But after talking to many of them, she was really anxious to get more of us participating, so hopefully this will really help those who have been on the fence.

Are you making money at craft shows?

http://craftmarketingtutor.com/are-you-making-money-at-craft-shows-2.html

Good Article here.



Kathy
www.aangels.etsy.com

I STILL WANT TO DO ONE DAY AT THE CCSN SHOW!

I would love to take part in the CCSN show, but I know I could not do 3 long days, by myself or even with a partner! It sucks getting old...just sayin'. Anyway, I just wanted to let anyone with a space know, that if for some reason can't do one of the days, I would love to use the space for that day. Of course, I'll pay for that day.
OR...Does anyone want to share their booth for 1 day? Any day is fine with me.
Convo me from my shop (Bonbonsandmore) or email to foxyquilts@yahoo.com.
Thanks! Kris (Bon Bons and More ...and...Fabric ala Carte).

Great Etsy Post

600 Sales and what I have learned..... by Etsy Seller, RareDaisyJewelry

1. List as many items as you possibly can. Some of the most successful shops have hundreds (And some nearly thousands) of listings. I know it takes time, and I know it's hard work, but LISTING IS THE ONLY WAY TO MAKE IT HAPPEN! Some people like to think that they can make it big without lots of listings, but those are usually the people with 4 items for sale and 3 items sold... they are living in denial. You truly must list things. People cannot magically purchase things laying around your house.. they need photos and prices.

2. Renew. Even on days that you list, you must renew! I know it costs money, but you have to spend money to make money. If you aren't at the top of at least SOME searches, you will never get seen.

3. Gift wrap things. People want to open a pretty package whether the admit it or not. So, wrap away! People like to think that appearance doesn't matter, but in all reality, sometimes presentation is the most important part. It's the first impression of the reveal. The very first thing they see BEFORE they see what they bought. You must make a good first impression. It doesn't cost a lot of money to wrap things nicely. It doesn't take TOO much time. So, just do it.

4. Give a free gift. No matter how small. This is a nice way to thank your customer, and it is an easy way to get them to come back. Customer service is IMPORTANT!

5. Answer e mails and messages fast!

6. Work on your photos. If you do not have good photos, you are doomed (if they stay that way!). And don't worry if they are bad.. just work on it and they WILL get better. Keep practicing!

7. Invest in some of the good e books that are available here on etsy that have how to tips. They can be very helpful!

8. Don't waste time on twitter, facebook or blogging. Encouraging people to go to THOSE websites hardly ever encourages them to go to etsy and shop. Instead, take the time you would invest in those things and put it toward listing. Listing is the ONLY way to ensure people will come to YOUR shop. Paid advertising also seldom works. Put that money toward renewing and relisting, and listing itself. LIST away! Keep things current. Some people may swear by twitter, facebook, blogging or paid advertisement, but really, in my opinion, it isn't worth the effort and money. That energy can be used to make and list new items so that you have a full shop! I know some people who have twitter, facebook, etsy, and a blog, and they are spread too thing. Their shop is nearly empty and they just want to encourage traffic flow to their shop. But they are going about it all wrong. Don't spread yourself too thin. If you must twitter, facebook or blog, then choose just one.

9. Use all 14 tags. Each tag is a chance to bring someone into your shop. Use it. *Do not tag abuse, as it is counter productive. Use only relevant tags! To get customers that are looking for exactly what you sell, have good, clean, crisp, relevant tags!*

10. Try your hardest to use all 5 photo slots. On days that are slow, go through and fill in the gaps. It's a never ending process, but seriously, it's a good thing to aim for! People cannot hold your product, see it in real life, or touch it with their own two hands, so photos are of the utmost importance!

11. Sign up for Google Analytics. See where your traffic is coming from, and see what gets you the most traffic. This is a useful tool, use it!

12. Make sure you have a good 'profile' in your profile section. Be yourself, and let others know who you are. This is a place for you to be candid, open, and honest. And when you are, you will get people emotionally involved in your store! Think people don't read it? They do! I changed mine a few times and each time I did, I thought "Well, no one will even notice!" but then sales would come in and I'd get a message from the buyer saying "Oh wow, I read your profile and we have so much in common! I love your shop, we're so much alike!" And boom! You've made progress! Get people emotionally involved and watch your shop grow! Do not be fake, practiced, or rehearsed. Be YOU!

13. If you have an item (or items) in your shop that are slow selling (and the rest of your shop is doing pretty good) that item (or items) need an increase in price, not a decrease! (I know it sounds like the opposite of what you have learned and heard but seriously, this works!) If you have a clearance album, ditch it. People do not want to buy low priced things. YOU MUST take yourself seriously, and shoppers will to. I cannot tell you how many times I have raised the price on something and boom, it was gone. Even when I previously had it in my "half off" album. I had a half off album on etsy for about 5 months and NOTHING sold. Well, maybe one thing, but once I put GOOD solid prices on those items, they found homes. Do not mark things down. Unless you have a bead/supply shop, then maybe. But for hand crafters, please, create a name for yourself and your goods. Do not sell yourself short. If people want to pay more, by all means, let them!

14.Change your feature photos around so that you show some of the best pieces in your shop. Pick 3 pieces that really summarize your whole shop. Choosing this three is HARD and very very important. I WOULD NOT recommend opting to not use the feature method. When I go to a shop that has nothing on the top, it's a total turn off! (I'm a big shopper as well as a seller) I like to see the detail available in those 3 pictures. Those 3 pictures are LARGER than the ones on your page. So, USE THEM! Also, you're going to want to choose 3 items that show the price range in your shop. Every shop varies, so pick out one item that is one of you lower priced pieces, and one item that is one of the higher end pieces. Let people see that your shop has a variety. If I go to a shop and they have all $2.99 things featured, I think their whole shop is like a dollar store, which is not bad, but it's the wrong impression if they offer things that are more pricey. Just something to keep in mind!

15. I like free shipping, and it works for me. Some shops are not good candidates for it, but if your shop is, consider it. I give free worldwide shipping and I feel it's really helped out and my customers fully appreciate it. Times are tough and people are looking for a good deal and a break. Give it to them if you can. Keep in mind that if you offer shipping, to keep it fair. Shops that gouge for shipping and 2ndary shipping seldom make good sales. Customers notice. If you offer good priced shipping, keep your secondary shipping price as close to zero as possible, this will encourage more sales.

16. For slow moving inventory that you want to mark down, DON'T! Just try this: A new photo can make all the difference! Which doesn't mean you need to take a new photo, just choose a different one to be the first! Many time I will click on a listing and think to myself "Why doesn't this person use the 4th photo up front? IT'S THE BEST!", so, just rotate the pics and see. Move things around and before you know it, your shop looks all new and sparkly!

17. For slow moving inventory: A new name. (What's in a name? EVERYTHING!! Giving a product a new name in conjunction with #13 and #16 will make it sell nearly 3x faster! In some cases that I have changed a products name (e.i; "Quartz Crystal Necklace" to "Icy Crystal Point") it sold in as little as one day!!)

18. Do not underestimate the power of these two words: "Thank you" Send a thank you note along with each purchase, and let them know that their business is appreciated. If the lady running the craft show gives you a larger table than you paid for, THANK HER, and consider giving her a small gift from your stock. If someone gives you a nice gift card to your favorite arts and crafts store, THANK THEM and let them know that it was a great gift idea, and a very thoughtful one at that! If someone spends a load of money in your shop, go out of your way to say 'thank you' and choose a thoughtful free gift, because it is sometimes the big spenders that really help out in times of need. With the economy the way it is, big spenders can be rare. So, let them know you're grateful!

These two words are sooooo important, if you do not use them on a regular basis to everyone that shops with you, supports you, or helps you in ANY WAY, you might as well put your head between your legs and kiss your ass goodbye. An attitude of gratitude will make people gravitate toward you. People want their good deeds to be bestowed upon a grateful recipient. So be that person and more will come your way.

And the Winner for this month is....

Fair Weather Friends by Flaky Friends! Congratulations! Your little patriotic pals are the spotlights of the month! For winning, you will receive a month-long feature on our blog, and a button for your shop/blog/whatever to help you share your win.

Fair Weather Friends by Flaky Friends

As always, it has been difficult to choose just one of the amazing entries, so here’s our shout out to the Chocolate Flag Lollipops by Candy Cottage and American Flag Earrings by Simply Earrings as honorable mentions.

Thank you everyone who participated in this month’s contest! All the entries were amazing and made it so difficult to choose just one.

Stay tuned for the next upcoming theme!

Team Raffle - Shop Advertising Prize

Hi Team - Since we didn't have an official meeting this month, nobody has been able to win our raffle grand prize of the month long feature on our site homepage for the month of September.  So in order to win it this month, anyone who purchases a crane pin from our team store will get five raffle tickets to win the September advertising spot (see our home page to see what your shop feature would be like).  Every pin you purchase gets you five more raffle tickets.

Doing any of the following will give you additional tickets for the raffle drawing:

post a link to the pin in our team Etsy shop in your Etsy shop announcement (1 ticket)
Post on your blog about the pin with a link to purchase  (1 ticket)
Tweet with a link to the pin  (1 ticket)
Post a link to it on your Facebook Status (1 ticket)

Here's a link to the item in our team store:  http://www.etsy.com/listing/50938832/origami-crane-helping-hand-pin-1001
So if you purchase one pin and do each of the additional optional items, you'd be entered in the raffle nine times.  If you buy two pins and do each of the additional options, you'd be entered 14 times, etc.

Let's get this cause moving!  We've committed to sell 1,001 of these pins by September as a team.  It's a fantastic cause but we need to really up the momentum.

Please post back here if you purchased a pin, and which of the other options you did.  Go, Team!

Help Us Build A Playground - Update

Hello Etsy team! This is Melissa (www.etsy.com/shop/melissamcgill) and I am asking for your help. My son's school, Silver Sands Montessori Charter School is in the Pepsi Refresh contest to win $50,000 to build a playground for their school. They don't have one and play on the blacktop with no shade. We're at 81 but we need a lot of people to vote daily to win this. You can vote online at http://www.refresheverything.com/silversands or from your mobile - Text 101629 to 73774. Please vote for us daily and pass it along.
Thank you,
Melissa

Call for Vendors - August's ArtsWalk

Before anyone can even take a breath after yesterday's awesome event, it's time to start thinking about August's ArtsWalk in Henderson.  Anyone interested in participating on the 19th, please email me at handmadeinvegas@gmail.com or leave a comment below with your email address.  I'd like to have all responses by this Thursday if possible.  The vendor fee for August remains $5.

Also, for more information on this event, please see the new ArtsWalk website I've created to help promote and educate locals about the event:  www.HendersonArtsWalk.com.  If your questions aren't answered there, please email me for more information.