In preparation for this fall’s festivals and shopper spike I spent part of the day doing inventory. This seemingly arduous task not only helps me prepare for fairs like Renegade, it also forces me to look back and see how my designs have evolved over the months. Sharp geometric cuts and draping fabrics have given way to more feminine shapes and lots of lace and print. My designs have also become more practical by showing less skin and embellishing more on the details. Continue reading
Tag: indie
Renegade 2011: Your Feedback Needed
I will be selling my Pierogi Picnic wares for the third year at the crème de la crème of indie handmade festivals: the Renegade Craft Fair!
Over the years I’ve learned a thing or to about participating in the show. One of the first is to have a game plan well in advance. Not only am I already sewing my little hands away at fall fashions – I’m also plotting out displays, business cards, and pre-fair graphics. I spent the first half of the day musing up new designs and the latter sitting at my sewing machine experimenting with new pieces.
Now I’m winding things down by contemplating my merchandising, tags and displays. As I started to think about the look and theme of this year’s fest I realized that I have yet to send in my icon for the Renegade website!
That’s where you come in! I am looking for feedback as to which icon has the most eye-catching look. With 300+ vendors in this year’s event it’s more important then ever to stand out from the crowd. Take a peek at the images above and click on your favorite to be directed to the Pierogi Picnic Facebook page where you can cast your official vote.
Selecting the website icon is just the tip of the iceberg in preperation for the big weekend. I’ll continue to fill you in on all my scheming over the next couple of months. And as if I’m not excited enough with my own planning – I will be sharing my booth with the lovely and talented Caitlin Peters of Wanderlustings. More info on our collaboration coming soon!
Thank you in advance for voting!
Meet the Models: Kelli
Kelli is just a girl with her head in the clouds. A film, FX, and animation enthusiast – she loves to travel overseas or on an open road.
A woman on a mission – Kelli is a career adviser at the Institute of Art and shapes the futures of cinema’s budding filmmakers. When not busy making films herself, Kelli also coordinates events for Women in Film Chicago.
Kelli’s energy and with light up even the dullest of crowds. Having a debilitating weakness for kittens – she cherishes what little free time she has by cuddling up with her own four cats, spouse and a hot chai latte.
Summer Love Sale
Starting this Friday the Pierogi Picnic Etsy site will be hosting a “Summer Love Sale” throughout the entire shop!
Receive 30% all ready made items by typing in the discount code “summerlove2011” upon checkout.
Start marking your favorites today – the sale ends Monday at midnight!
Planning Ahead: Fall Fashion 2011
I was reading through the Etsy Blog and came across an article about uber entrepreneur Melissa Helmbrecht and was instantly floored.
The post chronicles Melissa’s diverse array of achievements and shares her 3 piece of advice for small indie businesses. Her very first tip has haunted me since I read the article: 1. Do what you don’t feel like doing.
When I read this I had to stop, go back, and read it again. At first I had thought it said “do what you feel like doing” and thought to myself, “yeah!” Boy was I bummed when I processed it again. “What do you mean do what you don’t want to? That’s not what I want to hear!”
The article continues by reviewing the need for a business plan and forward thinking – none of which I’m against – but to be reminded of this on a warm lazy summer day hit a nerve.
I was suddenly overwhelmed – the fall season was just a mere 3 months away and I hadn’t even stopped one moment to dream up my cool weather designs. The business plan is intact – but what about the core of my brand – the clothing!?
So after ordering up some steaming sweet and sour tofu takeout I sat down to plot, draw, and dream my Fall 2011 collection. And if you think I’m stalling (don’t fashion designers figure this out year’s in advance!?) then remember that I’m not your typical clothing designer and that at times spontaneity and procrastination can lead to high pressure thinking and fabulous results!
And in case you’re just itching to see some of my thoughts I’ve included a page from my business journal above. Which leads me to wonder – have you planned out your ideas for the coming season? When did you get started? Share your insights below!
Meet the Models: Jeannette
Jeannette is a talented jewelry designer and music lover who spends her time giggling and musing with friends in her vintage Chicago apartment.
Fascinated by various curios, some of Jeannette’s favorite films include Amelie, Donnie Darko and the Labyrinth.
When she’s not busy hopping and bopping you can find her bending circuits with a local hackers group.
Consolidating Efforts: Working Smarter
BEFORE
With a full-time job, three pets, a husband, and community involvement, it can be hard to find time to consistently pour into an indie business. Staying productive, inspired, and effective requires a well orchestrated schizophrenia of productivity that consolidates where you invest your energy. Between social networking and the online marketplace it is easy to become overwhelmed and distracted. Where should you spend your web time? And how do you spend it well?
Here are some tools and tips that I have discovered over the past three years that have helped me to use the most of my time online: Continue reading
Shiny Happy*People 