Zappo's wants our team to be part of the First Fridays experience...FREE spaces...

Hi fellow HMIV members. I’ve recently been offered a great opportunity for our team during First Fridays. Zappo’s, the organization that has taken over the FF events previously managed by Whirlygig, would very much like to include The Handmade in Vegas Group among the venders that showcase on Casino Center. The main First Friday hub.

• They are offering us FREE 10x10 spaces for our team members who bring their own tents.
• $20 table spaces. (They provide 6ft table and chairs.)
• $50 10x10 tent spaces. (They provide the tent, 6ft table, chairs and three grid walls)
• All spaces include access to electricity.

Since most of us have our own tents and set up, this means we could each be selling in the highest traffic vending area downtown for FREE for the next three months. The fees after March are yet to be determined, but I am told they are likely to run $50 or less.

The other reason I’d like us to try this is to lift the financial/legal burden off Marlene’s shoulders. The permits are taken care of via Zappo's so all we need to do is show up, set up and do our thing.

The catches are these...it's juried, but our team crafts some of the finest items ANYWHERE so I’m not overly concerned about that.

Marlene and I have discussed this and we felt the best thing to do would be to bring this to the team and see what you all think of this opportunity. The deadline for participating in January is fast approaching and so time is of the essence.

ALL opinions, feedback and questions are welcome.
For more information please contact me here or on Ametista’s fan page - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ametista-Artistic-Offerings/147799335816

ALSO – be sure to check out the New and improved First Friday website at http://www.firstfridaylasvegas.com/
Vendor info at http://www.firstfridaylasvegas.com/get-involved.htm

Thanks! I look forward to hearing what you think!
Carrie

New Member Intro

Hi there! Just wanted to introduce myself...my name is Beth and I'm excited to be a part of the Handmade in Vegas team:-)

Last year, I got engaged and threw myself into all things wedding. I decided I wanted to DIY as much as possible and had so much fun doing it, I decided to create an Etsy shop. Well, the wedding is over, and I am still totally immersed in weddings (my husband is thrilled) and my Etsy shop is going strong! I am currently selling personalized hangers in my shop, Handcrafted Affairs, but I'm about to launch a line of bridal accessories--headpieces, sashes, etc as well.

I'm looking forward to meeting the team and helping promote each other!

-Beth

First Fridat at the LOT - A Handmade in Vegas Team Venue

The new LOT location at 201 E. Charleston really ROCKS! Lots & LOTS of foot traffic! I have to say that my favorite thing was that people keep saying "WOW, is this First Friday!!"

Handmade in Vegas members receive a discount of $20!! Registration is now open for Jan. 6, 2011. Details under DOCS on the Handmade in Vegas Facebook page or email me directly at islandgirlzjewelry @gmail.com! There is a limited number of tents available and they are going fast so if you intend to participate I would recommend signing up as soon as you are able.


Thanks so much to my "boys"--Charles, Chris, Billy & Pete! Could not do this without them!! And also a huge thanks to Julie, Allison, Evan and Laurie for promoting and listening to me whine! Shout out also to Off the Hook BBQ and our on site security, Tony & Rico (off-duty local law enforcement officers)!


Come play in the LOT--it's more fun than work!!

A few ideas, by Julie Mirth {spill the beans}

As most of you know by now, I am on the ballot for the position of the new team leader. Below are some of the ideas I have.........
 

Hello Handmade in Vegas, I am Julie Mirth of {spill the beans}. As many of you know I am only half of {spill the beans}, as Brandy Decker is my partner in crime. I would like to take a minute to tell you about Brandy and myself. I want to tell you about both of us, because we are a team and although my name is the one on the ballot, Brandy will be a huge part of helping me with my new role on the Handmade in Vegas team.

We have both been crafting since we were little girls. We became crafting partners when we both moved to Vegas in 2003. We created {spill the beans} in 2008 and have been active in the Las Vegas craft scene ever since. Brandy is originally from San Diego and I am originally from Seattle.

Since {spill the beans} joined the Handmade in Vegas group we have had the opportunity to meet many wonderful people who share the same interests as we do. We have also been able to attend and host many great craft shows around the valley with the Handmade in Vegas team.

I think what I would like to see happen most with the HMIV team is more unity. There are many members, however only a handful of them are active within the team. I think that some small changes could have a wonderful impact on uniting the team. Thus, my first item of business would be to have family friendly meetings, as many of us have children and cannot attend a meeting where they are not welcome.

I think it would also benefit the team to elect more than just a president. I would like to have an election for vice president, secretary, and treasurer, etc. A team as large as ours should have a proper board of officers to run things and conduct business.  I know we currently have people in charge of the jurying committee, Etsy group, Facebook, etc. However many of the team members do not know whom these people are. I would like for the whole team to know who is who, so we can all be on the same page. Possibly something as simple as adding a leadership page to the website/ blog. On this page all the positions will be listed and a small post from the person holding that current position will accompany it. 

I would like to have more HMIV only shows.  Brandy and I get asked all the time about putting on handmade only events. We have tried this in the past, however we find that not all of the handmade only people are on board, thus we have to accept home based businesses, otherwise we wouldn’t be able to fill the venue. There are many great venues in the valley that could provide the perfect setting for a handmade only show; my goal is to get everyone on board so we can have more amazing shows!

I would also like to see the HMIV team have some sort of funds to support things like advertisement, banners, show venues, etc. I think it would be great if we could do small things here and there, as so not to overwhelm anyone with fundraising. One example I was thinking of is having a team garage sale. Team members bring all the craft supplies that they are no longer using and donate their items to the garage sale. This could be a great way to clean out the stuff we no longer use and earn some money for the team.  

The things I have mentioned above are just a few ideas that I think could help the team continue to grow and thrive.  

I would like to thank Sarah Flake for having a great vision and bringing it all together! Through this amazing team, Brandy and myself have met many wonderful people who share the same ideas and crafting interests as we do. I hope to help carry the great people on this team to many wonderful opportunities in the future.

Thank You,

Julie Mirth {spill the beans}

Indie Start Up!

Hi everyone - anyone who has heard of Kickstarter.com probably has developed dreams of super-charging their business.  I sure did, and just launched my first Kickstarter project.  Basically the idea is that inde artists who need  a few extra bucks can appeal to the masses and offer really cool art rewards to those who pitch in.  I've set up a ton of great kickbacks in my project and hope you'll take a minute to watch my video here:

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1945838666/mr-bones-plush-silkscreened-skeleton-rattle

Happy holidays!

Future New Member

Hello Members,

My name is Patty Virginia, owner of Embellish Me Patty V. I've been active in Etsy since mid September and am anxiously waiting to join the Las Vegas Etsy Team.

I am hooked on making handmade fabric flowers into pins, hair accessories, magnets and bouquets. Please take a look at my store at www.embellishmepattyv.etsy.com to see the type of flowers I make. I'm leaning toward the fabric flower bouquets and building up my inventory for spring as this will be my main feature at my shop.

Looking forward to meeting you all and thank you for the opportunity to join this group.

Patty V
Embellish Me Patty V

TEAM LEADER/PRES DUTIES

This is what we've currently got working on the team:

258 members from all over the Las Vegas metroplex
A great jurying committee who vets/adds new members
A wonderful Facebook committee managed by Kathy Wheeler
A team Etsy shop at www.handmadeinvegas.etsy.com managed by Teri
A free monthly meeting spot in NW Las Vegas(managed by Kathy Wheeler)
A team sponsorship of the Henderson ArtWalk (now Artbeat) craft event - if we wish to continue participation
A few great team craft fairs (thanks, Robi!)
A website where locals can shop all our products at the same time and come for our information (www.handmadeinvegas.com)

As team captain, I've basically been a touch point for team members with great ideas and to a make sure information is flowing correctly. I've tried to make sure everyone was on the same page, put together the online community (which now runs it's self pretty well!) and kept tabs with Etsy admin regarding team policies and ideas. I also make periodic judgement calls on gray areas and questions that come up. I think it's important that there be one person who all the ideas are being run through so the team doesn't inadvertently work against itself and we can put our maximum effort into any projects we choose to adopt.

All local inquiries that come in to our website at www.handmadeinvegas.com also come through the captain and I've been in charge of managing questions and request from the community and helping them find the right etsy seller they are looking for.

Additionally, I've been the press contact for any media outlets looking for information on our group and have worked with PR companies and done interviews regarding our team and our mission.

Etsy also contacts the team captain periodically with programs they hope teams will participate in and I spearhead that. For example, Etsy is coordinating with the local shop west elm right now to put on a holiday event and asked me to organize and coordinate locally to make the event happen.

Another part of being captain is seeing about getting team rates at big craft events and helping our members keep low vendor fees since we have such great adverting power within our ranks. Keeping in touch with the big promoters and maintaining relationships locally with key persons in the art community is beneficial to the team.

Our team has been the sponsor of the Henderson Artbeat event (www.hendersonartbeat.com). The new team captain would decide if they would like to continue this sponsorship and coordinate with the Water Street Business District for the 2012 year to find vendors and coordinate the on-site event.

There are no set rules or duties for the team captain, and anyone taking over can form the leadership as they see fit.

Team Store Sales P.S.

We have a negative on the team shop feedback because of the first example in my first post. More reason that this is so important.

Team Store Sales

We have had three sales from the team store in the last month. When I get notified of a sale, I e-mail the buyer letting them know that the shop owner will contact them. I then notify the shop owner of the sale and pay pal them the shipping. I ask the shop owner to contact the buyer to let them no when the item will be shipped and to contact me letting me know that they received my e-mail and the shipping. This is the only way I have of knowing the seller received the e-mail and is taking care of the sale. Letting the first seller know late was my fault (switched computers and forgot to put in the other two e-mail address'), however the item was still not sent out till 9 days after the seller was notified. The last two sellers have yet to let me know they rec'd the info. It is very important that I get this info - otherwise I have to make excuse after excuse to the buyer why they don't have their merchandise. This gives us a bad reputation. So, please - if I notify you that you made a sale, let me know you received it.
Thanks

VOTING INFORMATION

Patricia Martinez

‎-----------------------IMPORT

ANT NOTICE – PLEASE READ-----------------------

I have been assigned the prestigious role of Voting Coordinator for the position of Team Leader/President of Handmade In Vegas. As you know, Sarah has elected to step down and we thank her for her excellent leadership during her reign.

Each official HMIV shop/member is eligible for one vote. If you share a shop, you are eligible for one vote. If you’re not sure if you’re an official member, send me an email and I’lI check the records or submit your ballot and if you are on the list, your vote will be counted.

Please cut and paste the ballot below and send via e-mail to rockmybeads@yahoo.com. Ballots must be received by midnight Thursday, December 1, 2011. Votes received after this deadline will not be counted.

Thank you,

Pat Martinez

RockMyBeads

--- OFFICIAL BALLOT -----

Place a check (X) next to your selection.

____ Julie Mirth, Spillthebeans Etc

_____ Write In: ______________________________

__________

(Add the name of the individual that you would like to select/nominate as Team Leader/President)

Happy Holidays Everyone

This is a convo I received for the team.  Anyone interested can reply to Tami.

Tami Reiss (tamireiss) sent you a conversation on November 21, 2011. Uncovet.com Launch Uncovet the new daily style habit showcases design-centric items for the style addict. We'd love to include some of your groups items in the coming weeks. We are giving away a Leica Lux as part of our launch,your members can enter to win a here: http://bit.ly/Uncovet-Leica ... Please help spread the word. Thanks,  Tami Heather Pyle, team captain

New Member

Good Morning HMIV,

Just wanted to introduce myself. My name is Carm Gargiulo and I am a brand new HMIV member. I am very excited to be a part of your group. My shop is the CrookedCrystal and I am yet another jewelry person. I am gearing my brand toward the "fun professional" I just hope that living in Vegas, and my target market being the "fun professional", that people don't get the wrong idea, Lol, if you get my drift. This is my very time every writing on a blog site, so I hope I am doing it right.

I was transplanted from Chicago to LV in 2006 due to my husbands job transfer. I like LV but my heart and family belong to Chicago. Here in Vegas I live up in the Centennial area with my husband Roger, our 2 Arabian horses, and wonderful boxer boy Pete- the best dog in the whole world!

I have already met many of the team members and the last NW meeting and at Tivoli this past weekend. I am really looking forward to getting to know all of you. Here is the link to my Etsy shop. http://www.etsy.com/shop/CrookedCrystal

Etsy and West Elm: Get Paid to do Crafts!

Etsy has teamed up with the urban home furnishing store, west elm, to create a night of crafting and Etsy sellers on Dec 1st. They have asked our team to supply 3 volunteers to work the craft table in the Henderson west elm location on the evening of December 1st from 6-9pm. They have also generously provided a $200 subsidy for our team for the services we'll provide that night. I think it would be fair to divide the $200 among any volunteers.

If you would be interested in participating at the craft table at west elm that night, please contact Sarah at sarahflake@gmail.com. I'm hoping to have 3 of us there from set up until clean up, so from 5:30 to 8:30. Etsy headquarters is providing the craft. We will just need to show up and teach the craft (simple paper ornaments) to the west elm shoppers.

We will not be allowed to sell our own items at the event.

The location is The District At Green Valley Ranch
190 South Green Valley Parkway
Henderson, NV 89012

Here is more information and instructions from Etsy:



Thursday December 1st from 6-9pm:
Arrive early - You will need to arrive early to help set up the table with craft projects and supplies. West Elm is ready to provide the table and a few chairs but you should verify this with the store manager when they contact you (*note from Sarah - I met with the manager yesterday and he has a nice big table and chairs all ready for us).

Get Crafty - You and your volunteers will need to stay the duration of the event to help crafters decorate and execute their projects if they're having any trouble.

Encourage crafters to make one, share one - Each location will display a small holiday tree as a central point to make donations of ornaments and purchases towards a chosen local charity. Encourage crafters to create one ornament for donation, one for themselves or a friend, and take a project template home, if they wish. If you are curious about the charity chosen for your location, ask your store manager.

Talk to the public about your Team and Etsy - Here are some great points of reference if you have any questions from the attendees you're working with.

What is Etsy? Etsy is an online marketplace for handmade goods, vintage items and craft supplies. The Etsy community offers millions of unique items from sellers in more than 150 countries. We connect shoppers with independent creators and designers to find inspiring handmade goods, while providing artists and makers a platform on which to build their own businesses.

Tell Me About Etsy Teams! Teams are a community feature on Etsy where you can connect with other members. With Teams, you can gather at the crossroads of our marketplace and community, meet people with common interests, and collaborate. With more than 3,700 set up all over the world, teams are Etsy's direct connection to the grass-roots network of artists that make up our community. Teams range from big to small, strictly moderated to completely open, business-oriented to just for fun and location-based to focused on a single shared interest. Learn more about Etsy Teams by visiting etsy.com/teams and signing up for the weekly teams newsletter!
So, Do You Work for Etsy? Etsy is a venue where people can sell vintage and handmade goods, or supplies. These people don't work for the company, but sell their products on the site. You can find an amazing variety of items from all over the world by visiting Etsy.com but the website itself is run out of an office in Brooklyn, NY (though we now have offices in Berlin, Germany and Hudson, NY as well!).

Pass out your promo materials to interested parties.

Take photos! We want to see your crafters, some finished projects, and your team!


After the event:
Craft template extras will be left at the store to give out at the cash wrap after the event. You are welcome to keep some for the team.
Stick around and help clean up if there's a good crafty mess.
Send photo links to me!! We want to see how your event went and might like to include them in a follow up Community Stories post on the Etsy Blog.
Let us know how you used your subsidy. Photos of your promos? Great ideas for team promotions?
Take a breath and accept a huge virtual hug from me and all of the Etsy staff.

The LOT - A First Friday Venue for Team Members

The LOT is moving to a new location beginning on Dec. 2 First Friday. You know what they say "Location, location, location!!"

We'll we've got it now. The new address for the LOT is 201 E. Charleston (across the street to the east of the Arts Factory)!

Be a part of this eclectic group of crafters, artists and designers all of whom produce original handmade items in a wide variety of mediums.

Information and application procedures can be found on the Handmade in Vegas Facebook page under the Docs section. Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/118037194897596/doc/283811348320179/

Would love to have lots of my fellow Handmade in Vegas team members participating in this wonderful new venue!

New team member: PupsCulture

Hi, my name is Karie Arlitz. Sewing is my Passion and I adore dogs (we have 3 rescues.) I've turned my loves into designing and creating unique and beautiful clothing and accessories for dogs and matching items for their people. My store is PupsCulture, unique handmade modern boutique fashions for pups and people. I'm looking forward to meeting the Team at the November 9th meeting!

NORTHWEST MEETING-------NOVEMBER 9TH

http://www.meetup.com/Handmade-In-Vegas/Las-Vegas-NV/443092/

The LOT is MOVING!!!

The LOT--Handmade in Vegas' venue for First Friday is moving to a high visibility location beginning in Dec.

A map showing the new location is on the team's Facebook Page. Please check the posts on FB for upcoming details.

Grid Wall for Sale

I have three panels of 5' x 3' black grid wall as well as several clips and hooks for hanging products. Please email me at info@scrivenersretreat.com. I'm located in North Las Vegas. Asking $40 or best offer.

Calling our next Twitter Leader(s)

To Handmade In Vegas Team members:

It's Helen here, your team Twitter girl ^_^

Since we have a team meeting coming up, I though it would be a good time to start looking for the next twitter leader there, if any team members are interested in taking over the our team twitter account, please see one of our team officers.

It has been a lot of fun being part of this wonderful team. I especially feel most rewarded when I saw our twitter followers grow from 8 to 250+ since we started. Unfortunately, my husband took a job in Houston a few months back and it seems like we are settling in to our new life here and are not planning on returning to the valley anytime soon. It would seem fair to have another local Vegas team member take over the Twitter Leader title.

Plus in between my full time job and running my etsy shop, I can't seem to find the enough time to be as active on the twitter account as I was at the beginning. I would be happy to stay on board for as long as it takes for the new twitter leader(s) to take over. I do suggest maybe getting a couple of members to share the duties. I would be more than happy to answer any questions our team may have regarding the duties in maintaining an active twitter account.

Thanks so much for having me in the wonderful team since the beginning.
I wish you all the best and hope one day to return and be part of Team Handmade in Vegas again.

Sincerely,
Helen Kwok
DesignByHelen.etsy.com

Handmade in Vegas Meeting on Mt. Charleston this Saturday

Update on Saturday's meeting/barbecue on Mt. Charleston. Despite the nasty weather we've been having, it is forecast to be sunny and in the 60's on Saturday. Dress for a brisk, fall day. The colors are gorgeous right now. If I have time, I will put orange balloons on the street signs where you need to turn. Hope to see you!!!!!

Halloween Pumpkins Cooler < Halloween Pumpkins - Southern Living

Halloween Pumpkins Cooler < Halloween Pumpkins - Southern Living

Reminder of October 8th Meeting/Party

I just wanted to remind everyone of the quarterly meeting at my house on Mount Charleston next Saturday from 1-5pm. I will provide hamburgers, polish sausage, veggie burgers (I'm a vegetarian),buns, condiments, iced tea and lemonade. I ask that everyone bring a side dish or a dessert (and something else to drink if you don't like iced tea or lemonade). I plan on it being outside, but if it rains, we'll hold it inside. Sarah will be there. I'd like anyone who plans to come to let me know so that I can have enough food for everyone.
Take 95 towards Reno. Turn left at the first Mount Charleston exit (Rte 157). Follow this road about 19 miles. Go past the hotel and continue into the big trees. You will see a green sign on the right hand side of the road that says Rainbow Subdivision. Turn left. You will be on Rainbow Canyon BLVD. Follow that a little ways until you see Ski Trail. Turn right on Ski Trail. Follow that until you see Mont Blanc Way. Turn right on this street. STAY on Mont Blanc. Keep going straight. Just past the little hill you will go up is a two story gray house on the left. This is my house. My address is 4125 Mont Blanc Way. My phone number is 872-5593. I hope to see you next Saturday.

Promoting for the holidays

HEY!!!!!getting an early jump on it.....slow economy needs more promotion for this team. I will write your story, scrouch11@gmail.com Contact me if you want a write up. Happy Monday!
C. S.

About Your Team Member

Read about the 2012 plans coming from this special team member. I will also write about your shop. Just contact me at scrouch11@gmail.com and let me know what you would like to promote!

Check it out here, this could be your article next.

Happy Sunday, Warm Regards

Promoting this Team

Hey there Team!

Just published this one. I would like to do some specific shops promos for anyone interested. give me a shout, my email is scrouch11@gmail.com. Take a look at this article about Handmade in Vegas Team shopping and shipping.
Have a great week-end.
C.S.

Reminder of October 8th Meeting/Party

Hey everyone. Just wanted to know if anyone is coming to the meeting at my house on October 8th. If not, I will cancel. You can let me know here or e-mail me at nevadawoods@hotmail.com. It's from 1-5 and you need to bring a side dish or dessert. I will provide hamburgers and some kind of German sausage since it is October!!!!I will also provide the condiments and buns. It's absolutely beautiful up here in the fall--leaves changing color, cool temps, etc.
The directions to my house are:
Take 95North. Turn left at the first Mt. Charleston exit Kyle Canyon Road(Rte. 157). Go past the hotel and the campgrounds(about 18 miles). Turn left at the Rainbow Canyon Subdivision sign. You will be on Rainbow Canyon Blvd. Follow this briefly until you see Ski Trail. Turn right on Ski Trail. Turn right on Mont Blanc Way. STAY STRAIGHT on Mont Blanc Way. You will go up a slight hill. Keep going straight. You will see a gray two story house on the left just past an empty lot and across from an empty lot. I will e-mail my phone number to anyone who RSVP's.

First Friday October in the LOT

WOO HOO First Friday is reopening under new management on Oct. 7!

Handmade in Vegas is fortunate to have an entire empty LOT next to th Artifice Bar and the Arts Factory for members to show and sell their artistic creations. Spots are still open (except for jewelry). Please email me directly at: islandgirlzjewelry@gmail.com. No license or sales tax number is required as that is all taken care of for you. Cost is $50 for 10 x 10 space (covers license fee, lot fee and insurance).

Help add another dimension to the arts offering on First Friday! This month we'll even have a live jazz musician performing in the LOT! Come join the fun. Check out the Handmade in Vegas Facebook page for lots of awesome photos (right hand side of the FB page under "Photos").

If you're out and about on First Friday Oct. 7, please be sure to stop by the LOT and say "Hi" to all your team members!

Holiday Boutique

Hello all!
I am fairly new with etsy and handmadeinvegas. My name is Barb. I have Hearts & More Embroidery. I do machine embroidery and custom, too.
I am currently organizing a Holiday Boutique on November 19th. Las Vegas UNICO is our organization. We will be at the Italian American Club this year. It is located at 2333 East Sahara, just east of Eastern. We will be in the ballroom starting at 10 am until 4pm. Booth charge is $50 per table plus a $20 raffle prize.
We have had sales the last two years, but this will be the biggest, so far. I do try to balance the vendors so there are not too many of one type.
Please call or email me. I can be reached at:
heartsembroidery@gmail.com
or 702-373-4244

Thank you and have a good day!
Barb T.

Handmade Halloween Decor

Hi Everyone! In addition to my shop where I sell one of a kind, handmade vintage rhinestone jewelry, I have just opened up a new shop called HALLOWEEN HAVEN!!!! A place I have always dreamed of...where you can find all things Halloween, all year long. My shop is a place for all of those wild ideas to come to life, and not just at Halloween time, but all year round. Halloween Haven provides you with creepy creations and ghoulishly glamourous decor at anytime...so that Halloween never has to end! I will be listing many, many more items within the next two weeks, with everything up by Oct. 1st., so please check back often. :)

PLEASE VISIT MY SHOPS AT www.halloweenhaven.etsy.com and www.rhinestonebird.etsy.com AND TAKE 10% OFF WITH COUPON CODE ETSYTEAM10 NOW THROUGH OCT. 31ST!!!

What is Up?

Hello fellow Las Vegas Team members!
Hope this finds everyone gearing up for the holidays. That is what I have been doing all summer. I wrote about it here.
I sure hope everyone will take a look. Then I am also looking to write about some of you. Got some juicy information about your newest designs, best selling items or upcoming events?
Is anyone doing something special they would like to promote? I will write for you if you will share one photograph and two links to what you are doing. Send me the information and I will get after it.Here is my email....cswizgo@gmail.com. Look forward to writing about your arts and crafts. Especially those of you who are from Henderson. I will write about anyone who is working at what they do.

My articles are short, about 400 words with a couple of links and a photo. let me know ASAP and please follow the link above to check out what is going on at Adrift Art Studio.

Awesome Autumn to Everyone,

C.S. Alexis

Las Vegas Handmade Team

To all the Team Members!

I am so happy that this team has grown so much and I've made so many wonderful friends.

I can see us making a big change in Las Vegas. Thank you to all who work so hard to make us what we are today!

Proud to be a Member!

Kellie

Art Box Creations

Etsy Banners - More Plans and Thoughts (from my blog)

I'm sharing with you something I just posted on my blog tonight.
=============
After I made my first banner for my Etsy shop, and posted here about how and why I used PowerPoint to do so, I found I had made an annoying mistake. I saved the PowerPoint banner as a .jpg file - that was all right. However, I forgot to save the PowerPoint file as it was originally developed in the program. Now I have to go back in and re-do it all from scratch, and save it once more, as a .pub file.

The reason I want this "template" is because of some new plans I just made. I realized yesterday that it would be fun, as well as possibly profitable, to change those banners to reflect specific holidays and seasons.

For example, I'm definitely doing one for the year-end holidays. As soon as I can finish some Christmas and Hanukkah projects, I'll take photos and put them in my Shop. Then, I'll create a banner with those holiday items, and only those. When anyone lands at my store, they'll immediately be immersed in the holiday spirit.

I don't think I can complete enough new items for the Hallowe'en or Thanksgiving holidays quickly enough. But after the year-end banner, there are all kinds of possibilities. Summer, Fall, Winter, Spring; Baseball, Football; Weddings; Valentine's Day, Easter, Patriotic (Memorial Day, July 4, etc.). My mind is a-flurry with all the stuff I want to make just so I can put them in my banner (LOL).

Once I have my template, I only need to change background color and images.

I might even offer the template, simple and plain as it is, to others for their own shop and to enable them to have their own fun.

Opportunities for the team

This is a copy of a convo I received from CheyneSews:
Hey there - 

I'm Cheyne, the Teams Coordinator with Etsy. 

Etsy is really excited to be partnering with West Elm to bring a special handmade holiday event to each of their store locations this December. We were hoping your team, Handmade in Vegas, would like to get involved with us at the Henderson, NV location on December 1st.

West Elm would like to provide a DIY activity table for attendees to craft up a little project to get them in the handmade holiday spirit. Here at Etsy, we're designing a special activity and will provide all of the supplies. We'd love for you to gather 5-8 teammates together to run the craft table during the event, which will run about four hours long. Participating in this project would be a great way for you to get the word out about your team and enable your teammates to make personal connections with your local community. West Elm will also be offering a subsidy that your team can use toward creating some promotional materials to hand out at the event, or to hold on to as an investment in your organization - that will be up to you.

Alongside the craft activity, West Elm will be handpicking local Etsy sellers to feature in the store, as well as offering charity element to round out the event. Just a heads up, West Elm may choose to feature some sellers from your team, but this is completely up to them. Unfortunately, West Elm won't have room for your teammates to sell or display your products at the event, but we will be helping you promote the team in other ways before and during the event. After all, the idea with this event is to have people talk to and craft with local artists, and that's why we would love your help.

Do you think this "craftivity" is something you and the team would be interested in participating in?

Thanks so much - can't wait to hear back from you! Feel free to reply to me directly at cheyne@etsy.com

-Cheyne


If anyone is interested in following up on this please contact her.   Heather - Team Captain

An Itsy Tip on Etsy Banner-Making

I realize that we have many talented and skilled team members who probably create and offer their designs for Etsy banners. However, there are some Etsy shop owners who might want to do their own, for any of a number of reasons.

I posted on my own blog tonight, about my first effort at my own Etsy banner. For over two years, I used a very nice professionally designed banner, but it did not show my shop items. I wanted that type of banner so badly.

For those two years, every time I tried to find a way to do it, the instructions all used Photoshop as the tool. I did not have it, I probably never will.

Today, however, I finally became frustrated enough to do some serious cyber-searching. One small link said that it could be done in PowerPoint. Well, I took that and ran with it. You can see my new banner here...

My post, about my experiences with it, and with PowerPoint 2003, my antiquated old version, is here:

http://prayersncrafts.blogspot.com/2011/08/making-etsy-banner-finally.html

.
Hopefully, some of you will try your hand at banner-making, and will be even better at it than I am, whether with Photoshop or PowerPoint or another tool. Have fun and good luck.

15% off Labor Day Sale at Rhinestone Bird!

Hi everyone! Please feel free to come take advantage of my Labor Day weekend celebration sale at my shop: www.rhinestonebird.etsy.com. Starting today and extending through Sept. 5th, just use coupon code SEPT15 to receive your discount. Thanks so much and have a wonderful weekend! :)

A few new pieces...I love punkins.  I'll have them at my first show of the season which is Harvest Festival at Cashman Field.  I hope to see many team members out there.  Please stop in and say 'hello'.  

Quarterly Team Party Announced

Dear Handmade in Vegas team members,

The amazing Robi Dunn, who just organized and executed a great show up at Mt. Charleston earlier this month, has just offered to host our team up at her Mt. Charleston digs in October for a team get together. Those of you who have been up to Mt. Charleston know how beautiful it is up there, and those who haven't, this will be a great opportunity to finally check out the beautiful mountain scenery.

Here are the details from Robi:

Come spend a beautiful fall day on Mount Charleston. Our quarterly meeting will be on Saturday, October 8th, from 1pm-5pm at Robi Dunn's (nevadawoods). Hamburgers and sausage will be served at this Octoberfest. Bring a side dish or a dessert and RSVP if you can make it. Directions are below:


Take the ramp onto US-95 N

Turn left onto NV-157 W/Kyle Canyon Rd (first Mount Charleston exit to Kyle Canyon) 18.9 mi

Turn left onto Rainbow Canyon Blvd (at Rainbow Subdivision sign) 0.2 mi

Turn right onto Ski Trail Rd 446 ft

Turn right onto Mont Blanc Way 335 ft

Destination will be on the left—Gray two story house
across from and next to empty lots.


4125 Mont Blanc Ct
Mt Charleston, NV 89124


Please RSVP to "handmadeinvegas@gmail.com" if you can come. You don't need to RSVP if you can't make it.

Also, if anyone else the group is interested in hosting a quarterly event at some point, please let me know.

Graphic Artist/Designer Needed

Need a graphic designer/artist on the HMIV team to design a postcard for the LOT to be used as a handout on the night of and as promo to media outlets the week prior. Quick turnaround required.

Any takers?

Email me directly at: islandgirlzjewelry@gmail.com

The LOT - Handmade in Vegas First Friday Event

The talent in the LOT is amazing. Check out one of HMIV's members: Ametista

Admit it--you love the twisted, the odd and the slightly off because they make you giggle. You love Halloween and all things Tim Burton. If you could cover more things in Black and White stripes...you would. You've seen Practical Magic more times than you'll publicly admit...then be sure not to miss Ametista in the LOT!

Ametista (Carrieann Lago and Kathy Jones) craft dark, whimsical home decor including Artistic Apothecary bottles, MoNsTeR bOxEs, Treacherous Tea sets and oddities, the likes of which you've never seen! All crafted in whole or part from re-enchanted (recycled) materials.

Be sure to check out their fine art prints! Re-enchanting the mundane and rendering it magical...one oddity at a time and only in the LOT! Sept. 2 First Friday 18b ArtsWalk at 1023 S. First Street Downtown Las Vegas next to the Artifice Bar and steps away from the backdoor of the Arts Factory.

Interest in showcasing your art in the LOT?? Email for details: islandgirlzjewelry@gmail.com

Vendor Opportunity

Just got this passed along to me:

Hi everyone! In case you don't remember me, my name is Irene Wandtke. My business partner, Debbie Trentini, and I are gearing up for our 2011 Holiday Gift & Craft Show! This year, we are holding the show at Texas Station Casino. The ballrooms are on the first floor adjacent to the casino floor and the entrance to the bowling center. Our charity of choice this year is Baby's Bounty, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping underprivileged families. Please see the attached vendor information sheet the show details. A few additional show highlights include photos with Santa Claus (100% of the proceeds will go to Baby's Bounty), live performances by a childrens choir and a dance troop and a silent raffle.

If you are interested in joining us, please complete the attached application and donation form and send them in. We will have approximately 55 vendors. Our tables are based on first come first serve (once you remit the sign up sheet and payment, your reservation will be confirmed). Please be specific on your item descriptions as we want to make sure there are no duplicate vendors. There may be similar vendors (such as jewelry), but the items must be different enough so as to not directly compete. Unfortunately, the sale of prepared foods (baked goods, etc...) is prohibited by the venue. Baby's Bounty has a special one day health permit as a non-profit organization that will allow them to be the only vendor able to sell any type of prepared food products at the show. That being said, mixes, etc... (such as Tastefully Simple and Dove Chocolates) IS permitted, however food sampling is not.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email or call me. We're looking forward to working with everyone and can't wait to see all the wonderful treasures! With all we have in store, we know this years show will be a great success!
Cheers!

Irene Wandtke
Debbie Trentini
Your Gift Connection
702-525-7754
irenesgifts4you@aol.com

Please contact Irene for an application and more information.

Whoops

Sorry I misspelled on the last post. I am presently under the influence of two Benadryls which make me kind of loopy. But there's no help for it when the allergies hit!!!

Last minute deatilss for Sunday's show

I sent everyone involved in Sunday's show a map. Let me know if you did not receive one by tomorrow. I will be the first tent on the lawn up next to the building, so be sure to check in with me when you get there.

Something I wanted to Share with Everyone

Hey Las Vegas!

I posted this and am welcoming all to read and share. With the holidays just around the corner, it could be of help to some of you. Have a Great Weekend,

High Regards,

C.S. Alexis

First Friday is Happening!

Wow! Never thought this day would get here! If you're out and about in the 18b Arts District this Friday night, please stop in for a visit. The official address is: 1025 S. First Street which is the lot next to the Artifice Bar.

Entry is from the parking lot located on the Casino Center side. You won't be able to miss it! Also please be sure to share the love and visit all of the other artisans and galleries that will be display work.

Hope to see you all there!

Excited about Sunday on Mt. Charleston

The weather prediction is sunny skies in the 80's, so we are good to go!!! I just got back from meeting the new events coordinator and from mapping out the area, so I will be sending all participants their location either today or tomorrow. I will be right in front at the edge of the path to the lawn this year, so check in with me when you get there. Please be there by 8am (or as close to that time)so you have plenty of time to set up.There won't be any entertainment this year, but they are having an outside bar with food and drink and a few tables. I had to rearrange the lawn area a bit to allow for this, but it hasn't changed that much. I'm looking forward to a wonderful day with lots of sales for all!!!

Vintage Wedding Accessories

Looking for that something special to complete your wedding ensemble? Well look no further! Rhinestone Bird has beautiful, one of a kind, vintage bridal head bands, hair clips, necklaces, bracelets, bobby pins and so much more! What you will find is your something old turned into something new and yes we have pieces that are something blue too! Please stop by my shop and take a look...I am having a 10% discount on all my items through the month of August (just use coupon code XMASAUGUST).

www.rhinestonebird.etsy.com

Craft Show This Weekend

I'm getting excited about our craft show this Sunday!  The weather looks fabulous (knock on wood)!


I  just signed up to use Square (from Apple) to take credit cards.  If you haven't seen one of these, you can stop by my booth and check it out. (Happy Bug Designs)  I have it on my new iPad, and totally love it!  I checked with the lodge, and they have free wi-fi, and you don't need to have a wi-fi plan to use it.

You can pre-set your items into inventory so all you have to do is touch a button, and the item is listed.  It even allows for variations.  As an example, I list scrapbook as an item.  I have the premade book at one price, a tutorial on how to make one at a second price, a kit to make one at a third price, and a kit tutorial combo price as a fourth.  I just click on scrapbooks, and then pick which one I want, and it is added to the receipt. This works well with buy two get one free offers too.  You can even elect to add taxes to your items. Your customer can choose to either have the receipt emailed to them or sent to their phone.  I tested a charge on my own card and the charge was done instantly, and the receipt sent at the same time.

The Square only takes out 2.75 percent (if you use their card reader), and it is deposited directly into your bank account. (if you have to key in the numbers, it is 3.5% plus 15 cents.)  If you use ProPay, it is 3.5% plus 35 cents, and then on top of that,  they charge you to transfer money into your bank account.

Last year, with the storm, the Lodge's wi-fi was knocked out, so I am still bringing my pro-pay info to be able to take credit cards over the phone in case there is a problem. 

Remember to post on your Facebook and Twitter account to remind your friends to come on up for the cool weather and to support the local economy.  Hope to see you there!