Product Photos: Let There Be Light!

When first starting my Etsy shop creating product photos was thee most difficult task in my quest to bring my handmade clothes to the masses. Having received my Bachelors in Film Production I knew a thing or two about lighting and set design but little about practical retail photography. So the experimentation commenced and years later I am more than content with the results – I am downright beaming with pride. Using the most minimal resources I have found a way to take a striking pic that captures the viewers attention while flattering the garments. Here are the tid bits that I have learned over the years.

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Rocking NYE Naturally: Makeup Tips

Last week I made a sweeping change to my daily makeup routine and ditched all of the harsh chemically products that were in my rather large stash.

I tossed about five pounds of designer and el cheapo eyeliners, blush, shadows, lip sticks, glosses, primers, and more! It was part of my yearly pre-New Years purge. Websites like the Cosmetics Safety Database convinced me that no look is worth the mercury infused mascara or phthalate laced cheek glow.

With this in mind, I wanted to share how us super eco-divas can still rock an edgy look using natural, safe, and earth friendly products. Some of my favorite items include a hemp based line of staining lip balms by Colorganics that can be purchased at most Whole Foods, the entire line of cosmetics by Greek skincare company Korres, and the ever cute and increasingly natural brand Tarte.

The following tutorial uses a mix of the above brands to create a vintage-inspired party look for New Year’s Eve. I hope it gives you some food for thought for 2011 and beyond. Continue reading

Sugar & Spice: Soaphappy! rocks Chicago


I discovered Soaphappy! this past November when selling my Pierogi Picnic goodies in a local craft show. Desperate for a stick of natural lip balm, I promptly snatched up a stick of their ultra hydrating Vanilla blend. This one product made me an instant convert.
I now covet my stick not letting even my beloved husband snag a use.
Hanah and Nellie are the dynamic duo behind this local soap racket. Their delicious and down-to-earth products blend natural vegan ingredients with exotic spice combinations that will jazz up even the weariest Chicagoan’s winter morning ritual. With soaps like Jazz+Beet boasting ingredients like ginger, rose, beets and jasmine – it’s no wonder this fiesty pair is stirring up trouble at local craft fairs like the DIY Trunk Show.
To spice up your chilly holiday week Sprout Chicago brings you an exclusive interview with these two soap divas:

DIY Gifts: Peppermint Mocha Body Scrub

If you’ve run out of time to shop for that special someone this holiday season – and don’t dare go out in the blizzardy snow – then make this year’s gifts DIY. There’s tons of things you can put together last minute for someone who will appreciate time, effort, and creativity much more than a purchased good.

So to give you a little inspiration I am sharing one of my personal favorite concoctions – Peppermint Mocha Body Scrub! Unlike the fattening espresso drink of the same name at Starbucks – this luxurious scrub is actually good for you! Made with ingredients found in the kitchen, its exfoliating texture and delicious smell will transform your bathroom into a foodie spa extravaganza.  Follow this recipe to make a brew as a gift for the last person on your list – or simply to indulge yourself. Continue reading