Special Shop Announcement!

Since just before Christmas, I've been rethinking my product offering and artistic image.

What genres suit me best as an artist?
What are my strengths as an artist?

So...I've made a decision.

While I positively love creating party supplies, piggy banks and stationery, playing with paper and different ink techniques...it's just that...playing. They're both items that will be offered on a custom design basis only, under a new category called Custom Designs in my etsy shop.

What I really want to do and focus on are my paintings, journals and some new sculpted elements. Branch more into home decor, focus on who I am as an artist...that sort of thing.

Did you know that I actually had two studio majors while in University? Ya...I actually studied sculpture first, and painting second, but quickly grew to love them both because of the professors that I studied under.

I'm going back to those roots, and will be giving my shop some much needed focus so I can, personally, gain some much needed clarity.

What you can expect to see are amazing journals that are truly a work of art, with sculpted cover embellishment, as well as antique skeleton keys, shimmery ribbons and other such inspired embellishments.



Abstract journals, both in linear and painterly styles, using a variety of acrylics and applications for a three dimensional effect. These can be found under Painted Journals in my shop.



These are sculpted embellishments that will be attached to some journal covers. I absolutely love them, and find it so soothing to work with clay again! The largest flower for journals is approximately 3" in diameter.



Acrylic paintings on both stretched canvas and wood. I am very very excited to offer these in my shop. Nervous, but excited! And of course, found under Acrylic Paintings in my shop.

I'll also be working on a variety of sculpted wall installations long the same concept as the sculpted journal embellishments. The smallest flowers will be 3" in diameter, going up to 8"-10" and sold in sets of three and five (or more by custom order) - all ready for hanging! Stay turned for a Sculpted Wall Art category, coming soon!

I'm really excited about the direction that Sweet Stella's is taking...but wonder...what do you think?

Leave me some love in the comments!

Special Post: Tina Dean Designs GIVEAWAY!

One of my amazing BlogHer'12 sponsors has collaborated with GoGreenAmericaTV to host an amazing giveaway in celebration of her involvement in the GBK Academy Awards Gifting Suite!

What can you win?



a eco-chic mini tote with repurposed lining from an old pair of jeans!



And since it's a Rafflecopter giveaway, entering is a breeze!! Enter now and enter often!!

Mompreneur Monday: The HopeFULL Company

I am absolutely thrilled about our Mompreneur team today!! They are a dynamic duo of moms, who are bringing a message of hope...and full bellies...into the world!

Meet Jessica and Stephanie, sisters and owners of the HopeFULL Company. They have created the cutest ways to help kids eat more whole foods with the idea of eat happily ever after.

What do you do?

We are both mothers to two young children and we're on a mission to help kids eat more whole foods!

Lately we've been busy launching our newest product, The BellyFULL Kit, which helps parents make nutritious and delicious frozen whole food pops at home with their kids.

How do you maximize your time as a busy mom running a business?

Get up before the kids do! It's not always easy getting up early, but those extra couple of hours before the kids get up really helps us get ahead.

What do you see as your greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur?

Finding balance is always a challenge. We love our work, so sometimes it's hard to turn off the computer or take a day off! We make a point to schedule time for ourselves, and we make quality time with our families a priority - time where we are present and enjoying the moment.

What advice do you have for other moms looking to start a business?

Be patient - it doesn't happen over night! We've also learned that just like parenthood, it takes a village. There are many wonderful resources out there for women entrepreneurs. Legal Corps, Women Venture, SCORE to name a few. Reach out, network and make connections. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the ride!

Is there anything additional that you'd like to share?

We'd love to offer a BellyFULL Kit giveaway to one random new "liker" on our Facebook Page! Just head to https://www.facebook.com/thehopefullcompany, "like us" and post "Sweet Stella's sent me!" to qualify!

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Mompreneur Monday: Awe Inspired Designs

Happy Monday! I have a wonderful new Mompreneur to introduce you to today, Cicily Atkins of Awe Inspired Designs.

I ran across her shop on the Dreamers into Doers forum on facebook, and was immediately blown away by her letterpress invitations and custom stationery for every occasion. There's just something about an embossed font that I just absolutely love. Cicily's designs are gorgeous and wonderful, and I am pleased to introduce you to her today.

What do you do?

I take paper dreams and turn them into a reality. I meet with clients who want stationery that does not come from a catolog. With each client, I design every aspect of their event stationery (save the dates, invitations, programs, table cards, fans), each piece custom to each event.

How do you maximize your time as a busy mom running a business?

Oh my goodness, as a momprenuer, I sneak in work, whenever I can. I maximize nap time, and bed time. And when I meet with a client for a consultation I will bring the kiddos to an at home daycare close to my home.

What do you see as your greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur?

LOL.. My biggest challenge is balancing my budding baby entrepreneurs. They sooo want to help me with each project. So i might let them count (teaching them to count, ;-) ) , or I will let them put in packing peanuts, or some other VERY important task.

What advice do you have for other moms looking to start a business?

Nike-Just Do it! Don't stress when you are up late, or if your kids wanna help out. Do your best, and be patient with yourself.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I'd like to offer up a $35 gift certificate towards a Custom Invitation Suite Order (Quantity of over 50 invitations) for a random new fan on Facebook. Custom Invitation Suite includes Invitation, Response, and Information Cards (with accompanying envelopes). Winner will be drawn by random and will be contacted by Awe Inspired Designs!

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Mompreneur Monday: Call for Moms!

You've seen some really great moms featured over here on Mompreneur Monday like Julie Cole of Mabel's Labels, Vanessa Hotchkiss of BailyBelle and Tina Allen of Tina Dean Designs...do you have what it takes to get some notice?

I'm currently on the hunt for some really awesome mompreneurs to feature in the Mompreneur Monday segment, and would so love to collaborate with you!

A few things to keep in mind...

• Offering a discount code or giveaway to Sweet Stella's readers is always great and will get you more traffic, but it's not required so don't let that hinder you in contacting me
  
• It doesn't have to be artsy and crafty in nature! If you're a mom and you run your own business, I'd love to hear from you!
• Make sure that your website is top-notch, so we are putting your best virtual face forward
• Include a photo sampling with your email so I know what type of work you do (if applicable)

Interested? Have what it takes? Want to get some free support from the WAHM community?

Drop me a line! shannon@sweetstellas.com

Mompreneur Monday: Camilee Designs

Happy Monday everyone! The new start to this week is absolutely beautiful, and I wish nothing but a creative week for you all!

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Cami from Camilee Designs. I had posted a call for Mompreneurs on facebook and twitter, and I'm so thankful that she responded as her shop is absolutely gorgeous!

What do you do?

I am a mom to a 4 year old little girl and I make jewelry

How do you maximize your time as a busy mom running a business?

I’m still trying to figure out the logistics on that! The one thing that I have going for me is that I have studio with a door…so I don’t have the waste time cleaning up after myself – I just close the door! J I’ve also found that some of my work can be done in large batches – for example, I add bows, logo stickers, and bubble wrap to my packages all at once so they are ready when I need to ship in a hurry.

What do you see as your greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur?

My greatest challenge as a MOMpreneur is making sure that I don’t take on too much. I love to run my business, but I don’t want my family to suffer because of it. I don’t want to look back and wish I spent more time with my daughter and less time on my business. It’s always a tricky balance!

What advice do you have for other moms looking to start a business?

Be patient. It can take a lot of time for things to start happening! Also, realize that some days our little angels can be really needy and on those days it’s possible that absolutely no business will get done…and that can be frustrating – especially during the holiday season!

Is there anything additional you'd like to share?

I would love to giveaway a $25 gift card to a random liker of my facebook page! Just go to my facebook page and let me know that you're a new fan!

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Mom Biz Retreat: Get Me There!!

So, I happened to get an email this morning from MomBizCoach (a little bifty newsletter and website that I subscribe to...geared toward mompreneurs about how to be the best business and brand that you can be) about their upcoming retreat in Chicago at the end of January 2012.



I hadn't heard about it before, so while I laid in bed relishing the last few moments of quiet before my son woke up I decided to look it up and was amazed at the itinerary.

Not only is it a chance for a few days of ME-time (such special time when you're busy with a business and toddler), but it is chalk full of activities to learn about the importance of building a strong brand.

Why do I want to go? Well...branding is very important to me. Having been through two corporate rebrandings, I know the importance of having a strong brand and how far brand recognition can go. I'm in the process of working with an amazing graphic designer to redesign my logo, blog buttons and overall look to represent who I am at the heart of my company...a chic mom who is an artist.

I struggle with time in the respect that I push myself so hard that at the end of the day, I have nothing left for myself. Between having a 1.5 year old, and a 1 year old business...I'm just spent at the end of the day. I maximize every waking hour for everyone else, but know that I need to be better with maximizing the quality of the time so that I can be the best mom and mompreneur possible.

I want to learn. I want to dive in and see what the mompreneur world has to offer. I want to connect.

It's such an amazing opportunity...so why the heck wouldn't I want to win the all-access pass??

Please, MomBizCoach, pick me!!

Marvelous Monday: Bellaroma...revisited

Happy Monday everyone!

One shop that I have been shopping at this holiday season is Bellaroma. Remember my little review a while ago?

Well, it hasn't stopped at just caring for my skin! I recently contacted Diana about my son's eczema. It's not bad, but it's not to be itchy for him and no amount of Aveeno or extra-sensitive-crazy cream has helped.

The only thing that has helped is Diana's own concoction of amazingness that she whipped up, and I've now purchased as a custom order.

But, it hasn't even stopped there! Some lucky lovely ladies in my life will be getting these this holiday season!





Both the Grapeseed&Banana and Crushed Kelp&Chamomile facial scrubs were recently gifted at the GBK Productions 63rd Primetime Emmy Awards Gifting Suite.

Pretty awesome!

Know what else is awesome? Her prices! A facial scrub, which she will recommend which one to get depending on your skin care concerns, for $11 plus shipping. AMAZING! The perfect stocking stuffer for this Christmas!

Cyber Monday SALE!

Support handmade artisans this Holiday season!! Buy "local"...from my hands {and heart} to yours!

To celebrate Cyber Monday, enjoy a 20% off coupon! Use coupon code CyberMonday20 at checkout and have 20% off your entire Etsy order (including custom orders placed and paid for today!)

Happy Shopping!



*coupon expires at midnight!

Mompreneur Monday: Mama Mahoney Creations

Happy Monday all...and CyberMonday at that! I do hope that you all choose to buy

handmade this holiday season...and what a better way to start than with some of my
mompreneurs!

Today, I'd like to introduce you to Janice of Mama Mahoney Creations. She creates
really funky custom totes and accessories...the kind that make you rethink that dingy
old black diaper bag! Here are five things you should know about Mama Mahoney...

1.  I make mostly quilted custom totes and accessories (although my Artfire shop does
have pre-made items that are ready to go).  My customers choose quilters grade cotton
in the design of their choice along with the bag size and closure options (button or
zipper).  I then quilt, embroider and assemble the bags from the studio in our house.
The embroidery can be anything from simple initials to a favorite phrase or even a 
special date.  I tell my customers that if they love the fabric, they will love the 
bag.  Most of the work is finding the right fabric to fit the customer's needs and 
taste.  I chose quilters cotton because of the high quality of the fabric and that 
it can be washed in cold water on gentle cycle and dried in the dryer on low heat. 
The fabric works great and is perfect for busy Moms who want something to fit their 
unique style, that is functional, easy to care for and be the "go to bag" on the 
way out the door.  My bags are "wash and go" (kinda like me :)  )  

{She also makes amazing Kindle and e-reader cases!}

2.  We moved into a new house about 4 months ago and I have been lucky enough to be 
able to set up my studio in my own space (with a door and everything).  It is 
located on the main floor of our home so that I can keep an eye on my youngest and 
get work done.  I use my crockpot for dinner on days that I know I want to be 
sewing until late in the afternoon.  I also have a huge family center in the 
kitchen.  It includes a large calendar, a white board for groceries or tasks that 
need done and a chore chart for the kiddos.  The older kids know that if it is not 
on the calendar, it does not get done.  I would still like a clone on most days or 
at the very least a couple of more hours!  

3.  My greatest challenge being a MOMpreneur is achieving balance in my life.  I 
think that is a tough thing in general for most women.  We have so much on our 
plates and adding an emerging business (essentially another "needy" kid) to the mix 
can be tough.  When I am working, I am happy because I am achieving something on my 
own, but I feel guilty for not spending every free minute that I have with my kids.  
On the other hand, when I am with my kids and having fun, I am still ticking off 
the list in my head that I need to get done the next day.  It is like I am 
multitasking all the time.  There is so much more of the family responsibility 
placed on the Mom, so that instead of "downtime" we are constantly on the go.  I 
am working on the concept of downtime, but if anyone figures it out, could you let 
me know ? :)  

4.   When deciding what to do for your business, make it something that you love.  
By LOVE, I mean something that is fun for you to do on a daily basis and if possible,
something that brings you joy to create.  For instance, I have two loves, sewing 
and baking.  Have done both for friends and also for money.  But when deciding what 
I wanted to to everyday, sewing won (basically, to be honest, if I baked cookies 
everyday, I would be as big as a house!)  Do what you love and the rest will come.  

5.  I am really excited to be participating in the GBK Oscar Gift Lounge in February!
Just finished rebranding and opened my own website :)  This year, for the first time,
I am offering gift certificates for you to give to that special someone to allow 
them to create their own bag.  Perfect gift for that hard to buy for friend or 
relative.  Also, until my birthday on Wednesday, you get the present! 40% any ONE 
item in my store.  Just enter happybirthdaymama in the comments section and I will 
send you an adjusted invoice.  This *includes* gift certificates for custom bags. 
Will only offer this discount to FB fans, so check out my page!

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Special Post: Etsy Coupon Code!

Happy Black Friday everyone!!

Use this code: BlackFriday30 for 30% off our Etsy shop!

Happy shopping, and may you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!



*code expires Sunday, November 27th at 12midnight*

Special Post: Etsy Coupon Code!

Happy Black Friday everyone!!

Use this code: BlackFriday30 for 30% off our Etsy shop! Just in time to scoop up a custom journal, mardi gras mask, pack of stocking stuffers or personalized stationery for Christmas!

Happy shopping, and may you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

*code expires Sunday, November 27th at 12midnight*

Y3W Friday: On Vacation (...Kinda)

Good morning everyone!
If you've stopped by my Etsy shop, you may have noticed a lovely little vacation notice at the top.

I am indeed going on vacation, but not the type of vacation that you would probably be thinking about.

Over the next two weeks, I am going to be working on a slew of new products to introduce to you all. While I'm working, I'll still be blogging, giving sneak peeks and participating in a few giveaways on Building Our Story, Jenni From The Blog and Baby Shmizz.

A few things that I'll be working on...

Monogrammed Wedding Cake Toppers

Clay Cake Toppers

Great Big Party Packages (Basic and Premium)

Birthday Wishes Box

Hanging Party Decor

Favour Boxes (two sizes!)

I Do! Wedding Cake Toppers

and much much more! I'm going to have fun playing with paper, ink, paint and my imagination. I'm going to think outside of the box and let the creativity flow.

Anything you'd like to see be created? Let me know!

Happy "vacation"!

Thankful Thursday: Specialty Shops

Happy Thursday, everyone! We've almost made it to the end of the week, which is something to be thankful for in itself!

This week, I am extremely Thankful for....

Specialty Shops!

I know, I know...sounds weird, right? But when I get right down to my paper inventory and stamps, I cannot find nearly the same things at the big chain stores as I can at say...

All About Scrapbooks in Woodstock, ON

or

Scrapbook Memories in London, ON

or even...

Close To My Heart...which is definitely my preferred go-to place for ideas and amazing papers (doesn't hurt to have a great friend as a consultant either...another thing to be thankful for!)

I am thankful for their amazing selection of papers...unique, lovely...beautiful! Walking about rows and rows of paper, brads, embellishments and do-dad's is enough to make this girl go crazy with ideas!

I am thankful for the beautiful store that my mother-in-law and I went to today...

Paper Players in Dunedin, FLA

Absolutely amazing invitations, banners, favours and beautiful papers abound!

And did you know? It's National Papercrafting Month!

Sounds like a new product announcement is coming!! (stay tuned!)

What are you thankful for today?