Today is the day – the first day of my favorite season – autumn! To celebrate I’ve curated the following collection using my favorite items off Etsy. Enjoy!
An Indie Biz: Holidays on my Mind
I remember when I used to quip how ridiculous retailers were about their premature holiday roll outs. Now that I’m nearing my fourth winter season with Pierogi Picnic I hang my head in shame for my previous judgements. Retail is all about pre-planning – especially in the digital realm.
I should have started my holiday prepping over the summer – but how could I possibly tear myself away from the allure of the outdoors to sit inside for business planning?! But it’s not too late to get my approach for this season set and you can too with these four steps: Continue reading
New Designs: Revamped Vintage Petticoat
This time of year all I can think about is layers. Boots, chunky sweaters, socks and thermals are just a few of the things that come to mind. If you’re like me you quickly bust these items out from the back of your closet only to find that you are now overheated, crabby, and feeling quite fluffy.
Revamped Vintage Petticoats to the rescue! This new design allows you to transition between seasons by giving you extra length to your summer dresses and tunics without sacrificing your sense of style. Handmade using vintage slips and curtain lace – these unique petticoats give you a victorian look with a modern edge. Perfect for easing you and your wardrobe into autumn.
Living Green: Chicago Uniform Project
I had the joy and pleasure of dolling up Sarah Louise Braunstein and taking her photos for the Chicago Uniform Project yesterday. Much like the original that inspired her venture, Sarah has taken the challenge of wearing the same item of clothing daily to a new creative level.
Rather then dressing herself, as did Shenna Matheiken, Sarah has asked local designers, boutique owners and stylists to create her looks. Each day she uploads a new photo of herself in a curated outfit, with many of the designers donating the items for an online auction. All the proceeds from the project are being donated to Connections for Abused Women and their Children, a Chicago-based foundation committed to ending domestic violence. Continue reading
Events: Shopping Mission Accomplished!
I’m still basking in the joy of this past weekend’s Renegade Craft Fair. Being among such driven and talented vendors is inspiring and encouraging. It gives one a sense of camaraderie and shows that the craft revolution is still going strong despite the failing economy.
The wares of the crafters were incredible this year. Each way I turned I found yet another unique handmade creation that I could barely contain myself from snatching up. The following is a peek at the damage I did do. I anticipate that more will follow once I start my holiday shopping two months forth. Continue reading
Events: Renegade Craft Fair Fun!
Thank you to everyone who came out this past weekend to our third stint at the Chicago Renegade Craft fair!
Not only was the weather perfect – we really lucked out with our spot! Our booth was across from Milk & Honey which made for easy snack and coffee access. We also enjoyed gourmet snow cones a plenty throughout the event care of Joe Snow. 
To the left of our space we had the very talented dynamic duo that is Cursive Design. While our back wall listened in on many a conversation with fellow Chicago crafter Angel D’Amico of Ad Love.
Sharing the booth with Caitlin Peters of Wanderlustings was a godsend. Having a creative partner in crime really eased some of the day’s pressure off my shoulders. Not only was the prep via craft party a romping good time – setting up, tearing down, and mid-day perk ups all felt easy breezy with her (and our significant others) help.
And on top of the great spot and wonderful company – I got to enjoy the best part about RCF – meeting all of you face to face! So thank you all again for venturing out through the heat and crowds to shop and visit – Renegade would never be complete without the shiny happy faces of all the Pierogi Picnic fans like you!
Events: Renegade Shopping List
I’ve spent two months prepping for the Renegade Craft Fair. Sewing, building, tagging – you name it! Now I’m taking a moment to compile a shopping list of what I’ll be splurging on at the fair. Here’s a peek:
1. Megan Lee Designs: Catterwheel screenprinted tank
2. Cursive Designs: Mini Summit Necklace
3. Raquel Masri: Porcelain Coasters
4. 1canoe2: Recipe Cards
5. Yellowlion: Day at Camp Screenprint
6. Betulla: Birch Bark Earrings
Shiny Happy*People 