One Girl Show

If you pop into my Etsy Shop and the inventory looks depleted - never fear. There is a reason.

I am really fortunate to have my products in seven stores across the country as well as a handful of online shops.  When I started on Etsy almost three years ago, I never would have predicted that.  But I learned - without even realizing it - "if you build it, they will come."  A couple of awesome shop owners came knocking and soon I found myself doing consignment on both coasts.  That gave me the courage to knock on a couple of local shop doors, email a couple of awesome shops in other parts of the country and I discovered something about myself ~ I enjoyed "selling" and sealing the deal!  (I'm rather shy, so this aspect of my personality still astounds me!)

So with all that going on ~ and I'm planning to add to my brick 'n mortar roster ~ it's a lot to keep up with on my own.  I am determined to -  for as long as I can -  keep my business personal ~ with every product being handmade, handcrafted, stories written, merchandised and shipped by me and me alone. I really don't ever want to lose that personal touch.

So with 2012 upon us I am looking into the new year and I realized if I'm going to keep up (and still have some semblance of a personal life which sadly has been lacking) I needed to restructure a bit.  So here's my plan ~~

*Every Quarter (every 3 months) I will offer a select group of 25 products.  This will be consistent across the board ~ all the brick 'n mortar shops and Etsy. (Etsy may have a couple of extra products if I have things already made and sitting on my studio shelf.)

*Every Quarter (every three months) those 25 products will change to a new offering of 25 products.

From a production point of view this makes sense as it allows me to work more efficiently and get my product out the door more quickly.  Working "assembly-line" style really speeds up production.  Of course I have to indulge my creative spirit and take time to develop new designs, so those will be popping up from time to time. Some of these new designs will be offered as Limited Editions for a short time only and then retired.

So that explains why my Etsy inventory went from over 100 products to 33.  I'm still here. Here. There. There. And there.  And maybe someday ~ everywhere. :)

Things To Come...

2012 has proven to be a banner year for the Wee Ones and me ~ thanks to the amazing support from you!  Four online shops and seven brick 'n mortar stores/galleries have kept me quite busy (hence long time no blog).  To that end I am working on some restructuring for 2012 ~ streamlining my lines to make my turnaround time faster and more efficient; but also looking to grow the business even more (without making myself too crazy...).

I am hoping to sign with a few more brick 'n mortars and plan to introduce new little guys in my regular line. Something new I am looking forward to is featuring some limited editions as well. Limited meaning they will be special ~ unique fabrics and/or designs ~ with only a few offered for sale for a limited time, then the line will be retired.  Furball here is a tease of what's to come.

I'm nearing the end of my holiday orders and looking forward to some fudge-making, cookie-baking, sitting- around-the-Christmas-tree-and-the warm-fire-family-time, toasting our blessings this year and maybe catching a movie or two.

And sleeping in.  Omysweetgoodness sleeping in would be such a treat!  ;-)

Happy holidays to all of you with {hugs} and enormous gratitude...

The Sum of the Parts...

that make the whole.

I know when I buy something I don't really think about all the parts that go into making the whole item.  But when I am on the other side - actually making the item - I think seriously about the parts that make up the whole. I scrutinize fabric; in fact, I've been known to get really unreasonably excited if I find just the right fabric for just the right project.  I am sure to keep my inventory of threads up to date; yes I do need four shades of pink and eight shades of blue.

In my particular business - making my Wee Ones, et al - I think the thing that really brings them to life are their eyes.  For my critters who will be adopted by kids over 3 years old, I use plastic safety eyes.  When I attach those eyes... well, that is when the Wee One comes to life.  The eyes are the window to the soul ~ even in a stuffed animal. When those eyes become part of a bear or a dog or any critter I'm working on, suddenly a personality appears.

And that is when I smile.  And that is when I know I've got a winner.

So, all that being said, eyes are a crucial part of my inventory.  And more often than not, I lose track of my inventory "count" and realize that - uh oh - I've only got 4 pairs of 12mm black eyes left!  The person I always turn to is my Etsy friend, Clara of 6060.  She always has what I need and am in dire need of.  Her response to my requests are immediate and her turn-around time is amazing!  Although we are many, many miles apart I usually have what I need in just a couple of days.

There are many times she has saved the day for me ~ especially during crunch times like the holiday season.  So I just wanted to tip my Santa hat to Clara and say thank you for your outstanding customer service!  I don't know what I would do without you!

Clifton

In my Dad's later years (he lived to be 87) one of his favorite pastimes was to watch television with my little niece.  The cartoon they enjoyed the most was Clifford the Big Red Dog.  That always made me chuckle because my Dad's name was Clifton (but he was better known as Clif).

As his health failed, he spent the last three weeks of his life in a beautiful hospice facility.  My Mother and I spent every day with him, with other family members coming and going.  He would drift in and out of sleep and later in and out of consciousness.  Once in awhile he would mutter things softly.  One day when I returned from running an errand my Mom said, "He keeps talking about a big red dog; he sees a big red dog.  I have no idea what he's talking about."  Taken out of context like that we were puzzled..  We thought for awhile; then I had a light bulb moment.

"Mom, he sees Clifford.  Clifford the Big Red Dog!"

He passed away shortly after that and I'm hoping that Clifford the Big Red Dog ~ or some semblance thereof ~ was there to greet him on the other side.

Yesterday I spent the day creating some new Wee Ones with subtle holiday/Christmas themes. Red is a big holiday color, so I noticed it was a recurring theme in the new "holiday collection of critters."  And without even thinking about it, I created a red dog.  Once I realized, omysweetgoodness, I have a red dog ~ it was obvious what his name would be.

Clifton. The Wee Red Dog.

Here's to you, Dad. :)

Wee Clones

Meet a special English Sheepdog, Black Cat and Grey Tabby Cat.  Or at least my impressionist versions of the real things.

If you're new to my world, let me give you some background.  I design Wee Ones - little stuffed animals - all kinds of species - all my own designs.  About a year ago I began getting requests to make Wee "Clones" of people's pets (just dogs and cats to this point).  It is always a challenge because I really want to please my customers ~ and designing something as special as a version of their beloved pets ~ well... it's a challenge. :)

The designs (like I said so far just cats and dogs) are in place, but the biggest challenge of a personalized Wee One?  Finding fabric that will replicate the real deal.  That was my dilemma this week and I'm just crossing my fingers and hoping  I did ok.  
They are shipping off tomorrow, so I'll know soon... :)

He's Baaaaack!

It is the return of Rupert the Thanksgiving Turkey!  He's all refreshed (ok he had a wee face lift...) and ready for the 2011 Thanksgiving season! 

Rupert would like to remind you a bit about himself.  His favorite things ~ he is a vegetarian and (hint) loves to hang out with fellow vegetarians. His favorite foods are mashed potatoes and gravy, blueberry pancakes and chocolate cheesecake. He enjoys long walks, playing Bingo and square dancing.
So this Thanksgiving, eat your vegetables and adopt a turkey as your buddy. :)

Why I Love What I Do!

All of my customers are special to me, but once in awhile an order comes thru that stands out.  I just never know where my critters may end up and what their stories will be. And, in the end, that is why I love what I do. A request for Rudy and Toby (the ram and dinosaur pictured here) was one such order.

A few months ago I had a note from Haleigh ~ she was excited to see the addition of Rudy the Ram in my Etsy shop, because one of her two sons carries the nickname of "Ram." As the mother of two boys myself, I remember well ~ if you buy one critter you must by another ~ so Rudy and Toby were on their way to Haleigh's two little boys.

What I didn't know until just recently is that they were surprise gifts for the boys from Mommy and Daddy to let them know that their Daddy was thinking of them.  Because, you see, Daddy is a Sargent in the United States Marines and as a member of the 26th MEU (Marine Expeditionary Unit) was deployed to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, Italy, Africa and Greece (with a lot of time spent on a ship in those areas) for almost 9 months.  Scary stuff.

Haleigh provided the image you see here ~ the top and bottom photos are the boys saying (as she so sweetly put it) their "see you laters" and the center photo is Dad returning home safely and embracing his precious little boys.

I was so touched by Haleigh's story ~ honored that she chose Rudy and Toby for such meaningful gifts at such an important time in her children's lives and honored that she shared it with me.  Thank you seems inadequate, but thank you Sgt. Johnson for your service and to Haleigh and the boys, thank you for your sacrifice and your service as well.

I can't say it enough ~ stories like Haleigh's are why I love what I do.  It brings wonderful people like Haleigh and her family into my life.  And I am grateful for that.

Happiness!

The second gift shop I signed with - can it be almost 18 months ago? - was Modern Mouse in lovely Alameda, California which sits across the Bay from the equally lovely San Francisco.  The owner, Eleen, (lovely herself) and I struck up a cyberspace friendship immediately.  Since then her brick 'n mortar store has grown by leaps and bounds, as has her ever-so-friendly and hard-working staff.  I'm thrilled to be a part of their beautiful shop!

Happiness has been a recurring theme in my life.  It has popped up when I least expect it; I've used the word happy so many times in business and in life it is practically my middle name.  I even have a tattoo with the Chinese symbol for happiness.

So, no surprise that Modern Mouse, Eleen and I would eventually join forces.  Eleen is all about delivering happiness (inspired by Zappos Founder, Tony Hsieh) and that is completely reflected in how she goes about her business and how she goes about her life.  And you know what they say about happiness ~~ it is contagious.  Take a peek at her online shop and you will see what I mean!  Happiness everywhere!

It was such fun to see my Wee Ones featured not once, but twice in Modern Mouse's October newsletter!  Drake-ula is proud to be a part of the Halloween Gift Guide!

And the other Big Deal in October is always (for me, anyway) Breast Cancer Awareness.  Modern Mouse partners with me in this cause and is featuring these BC Buddies in their shop!

And if you're just looking for a Wee One in general, a special selection can be found on Modern Mouse's shopping site.

One of these days I'm going to surprise those kids at Modern Mouse and pop by to say hi!  Thank you Eleen and crew for all you do.   Happiness all around!  

Lucky #7

I am so excited to share that my Wee Ones can now be found at the fabulous I Heart Denver store in the Denver Pavilions on the 16th Street Mall in downtown Denver!  I made my first delivery yesterday and met store owner, Samuel (he's awesome) and his crew (equally awesome).

The store contains products that are entirely produced by local Denver artists.  Everything from glassware to tee shirts to bags to jewelry and more  (and, of course, stuffed animals.) :)  If you're in the area, stop by and check it out (2nd floor of the Pavilions).  You are sure to walk away with something crafted by a Denver artist.

I call I Heart Denver my lucky #7 ~ the 7th store I am partnering with on consignment.  I guess my Etsy shop would bring that number to 8, but as far as brick 'n mortar shops ~ this is lucky #7.  So you know what that means.  Those Wee Ones are going to fly off the shelf.  :)

Thanks, Samuel and crew ~ I am so happy to be part of your one-of-a-kind 100% Denver store!

Made in America!

A couple of months ago I made a sales call to the fabulous Show of Hands Gallery in the Cherry Creek North neighborhood of Denver.  I love this gallery and really wanted to partner with them.  So I was a little nervous when I opened the door and made my way to the check out counter to begin my pitch.  I brought along Coco the Wee Dog for support.

Coco was a hit ~ particularly when the gallery operators learned that yes, I really do make Coco and his fellow Wee Ones in my little home studio, right here in Colorado.  They explained how hard it was to find quality toys that are actually made in America.  The rest is history ~ many of my Wee Ones are now residing at Show of Hands and sales are thru the roof.  (I say with enormous gratitude!)

But since that day when I learned how unique it was to have a product "Made in America" the thought has stuck with me.  I've become much more aware of how special it is to find something to purchase that is actually "Made in America."

I decided to emphasize that in my marketing ~ in the labels (above) I sew into each little Wee One (and everything I create).  I added it on my business card as well as any print marketing I do (brochures, invoicing, flyers).

So you can imagine the feeling of validation I felt last night when listening to our President address the Nation about jobs and how important it is to see those three words around the world ~ "Made in America."  An excerpt from his speech:

Today you [Congress] passed reform that will speed up the outdated patent process, so that entrepreneurs can turn a new idea into a new business as quickly as possible.  That's the kind of action we need.  Now it's time to clear the way for a series of trade agreements that would make it easier for American companies to sell their products in Panama, Colombia and South Korea -- while also helping the workers whose jobs have been affected by global competition.  If Americans can buy Kias and Hyundais, I want to see folks in South Korea driving Fords and Chevys and Chryslers.  I want to see more products sold around the world stamped with three proud words:
"Made in America."
** President Barack Obama, September 8, 2011

I couldn't agree more.

(Labels printed by the wonderful Priya Creations)

Yes. I Do.

The other day I was asked a question that took me aback.

A woman (who shall remain nameless, but she knows her stuff) picked up one of my Wee Ones with great curiosity   She examined it carefully, turning it upside down, sideways, scrutinizing every stitch ~ and then set it down.   She looked at me quizzically and asked, "You really make these?"

"Yes, I do."

"Really."

"Yes."  

"Because it is so professionally done."

I didn't know what to say.  I mean, was she questioning my honesty?  My integrity?  My work?  My character?  So I just smiled and said, "Thank you."  (and I was thinking ~ I think that was a compliment... maybe...)

I took just a minute or two to consider what she had said and realized - she had just paid me the biggest compliment I've had in quite some time!  If she thought my work was good enough to be deemed "professional," well, then I've made the big time.  (At least in my own head)  *wink*

So as kind of proof positive, I took some shots of work in progress today.  Meet the evolution of Francesca.

And yes. I made her.  :)  She - a whole gaggle of her friends - will be residing at A Show of Hands in Cherry Creek North this weekend.

Good Boy. Boys...

Remember ET?  *wink*

I had a request a couple of weeks ago to make a "wee clone" of this cute little pup.  Well, actually seven "wee clones."  As always it is tricky business recreating someone's beloved pet.  It was a bit of a challenge (think two prototypes to get it right), but in the end, definitely worth it.

The real pup has met the rest of his "litter" now and I would say they look pretty comfortable with each other. Happy trails wee ones all.

To Be Continued...

Coco the Wee Dog asked me to blog a message for him.

As my guest blogger soon, he is busy compiling his interview responses from Project Hello and he plans to blog all the fabulous details and introduce you to our awesome new friends in a couple of days.  So stay tuned.  Here's a little tease - a couple of the interesting responses he received and he wanted me to share with you:

• Favorite foods?  For two people it was lasagna (to quote them ~ "Who doesn't love a good lasagna?") - and I don't even think they know The Real Housewives of New Jersey!
• Favorite animal?  Dogs outnumber cats (but it is close and Coco being a dog, he may be skewing the numbers a bit...) and one person likes camels best.
• And finally ~ under "What is your favorite pastime?" ~ Coco's favorite response so far is "Abundant Liver of Life!"

Coco is working diligently and promises to post his blog soon (like probably tomorrow!).  Until then ~ enjoy some music by Land Lines.  (Now if only I knew how to insert music... use your imagination. ha!)

One Word Tees = Awesome!

So here was my dilemma ~ I needed a special tee shirt and I needed it in two days.  Here's the deal:

About six weeks ago I applied to and was accepted into a very cool local event called Project Hello.  It was so named because the concept was to introduce yourself thru your art.  My proposal utilized one of my Wee dogs, Coco.  Coco would interview attendees asking a few important questions (like what is your favorite food - you know, important stuff) and then blog about all his new friends. (That blog post is forthcoming.)

While perusing Etsy one day I came across One Word Tees and noticed one of the shirts said simply "hello."  It hit me immediately - how perfect for Project Hello!  It not only would break the ice for interviews and introductions at the event, but it was unique and fun and most of all ~~ comfortable!  :)  I ordered one immediately and received it in two days.  I was so pleased with the shirt and so happy that I had a unique way to present myself and my Wee Ones at the event.

Late Tuesday afternoon, June 21, I had a thought.  And then I kind of panicked.  You see, my husband, Charlie (although my friend Susan thinks he should go by Mr. Cindi) is not only my biggest cheerleader, but also my wingman.  He jumps right in to support me at events - driving me around, loading the Jeep with tables and screens and bags, helping me set up and tear down.  But most of all - being one of those guys who has never known a stranger - he is my #1 sales rep and PR guy.  He's a good guy.  :)

So my thought late Tuesday afternoon was - oh man... he needs a "hello" shirt, too!  The problem?  I live in Colorado and One Word Tees is based in Delaware.  A quick glance at a map of the US and one realizes, hmmmm... can we make this happen logistically?  So I quickly emailed Ross at One Word Tees and explained my dilemma.  He said he would do his best to get a shirt to me by Friday, the 24th (the event was Saturday, the 25th), but couldn't guarantee delivery.  Well, this being Wednesday, the 22nd, now I told him I totally understood; but let's give it a shot.  I think we can do it. And even if it doesn't arrive in time, I don't care.  I know "Mr. Cindi" will love it and appreciate the thought. :)

Ross didn't hesitate.  He got the package off Wednesday ~ a big thank you to his lovely and talented fiancee Nicole for the special drop off at the PO!  One of the happiest moments I've had in a while was opening my mailbox Friday afternoon and there it was - a package from One Word Tees!

Long story (sorry) short - my husband loves his tee and proudly wore it beside me and supported me all day long at Project Hello.  The most fun though?  Going for a celebratory glass of wine (it was a good day) and a bite to eat after at one of our favorite local restaurants, Racines (nicest people, best service and yummiest food in town!).  For two hours people were saying "Hello!"   I joked that when we sat together we were a U2 song.  (Vertigo - "Hello, hello, to my place called Vertigo")

So if you are looking for something unique and fun, check out One Word Tees.  I love their concept - so simple and clean, but so fun!  And the service?  Well I think you can see - it is superb.

Thank you Ross and Nicole.  Customer service like this is what sets businesses apart.  And you are the best!

Meet the Happy Birds ~ Because Life Is Too Short To Be Mad.

I have always had an affinity for birds.  When I was a child visiting my Grandparents I loved the soulful cooing of mourning doves.  They fascinated me because I only heard the doves there.  So, of course, to this day whenever I hear that mournful "coo coo" I think of my Grandparents ~ especially my Grandfather (a retired farmer) and his bountiful garden.

Hiking thru mountains and meadows with my children when then were young, the sweet song of a meadow lark was always welcome music to my ears.  It meant winter was behind us and warm, beautiful hiking weather lay in front of us.  Hearing a meadow lark singing today takes me right back to those sunny days hiking with my little guys.

Today walking out my door is like stepping into wild kingdom.  Along with the bunnies scattering underfoot, house finches are feeding at one feeder; goldfinches chowing down on another.  Hummingbirds buzz past my ear and red-tailed hawks and American white pelicans soar overhead.

So yes.  One could surmise I have a fondness for birds.  :)

So with birds being so popular these days (those of the angry breed in particular), I wanted to bring my love of birds to my Wee Ones.  So welcome my new line of "Happy Birds" ~ because life is too short to be mad all the time.  *wink*

Meet (front to back, left to right) - Tango, Sunny, Rufus, Cinder, Twinkle, Boo and Apple.  Coming to my Etsy shop soon.

P.S. Apple just flew into the shop
Sunny just flew into the shop

Meet Scout ~ the Star of the Upper West Side!

Little did I know when opened my Etsy shop where this little adventure would take me.  It took a few months to find my focus and when I settled on designing things for kids - with my original designs - I knew I had found my niche.  And once I discovered the Etsy forums and started posting and interacting with fellow Etsians, my business began to pick up.

One day while perusing the forums I came across a post from a gal in New York City who was about to open a gift shop and she was asking if anyone was interested in selling their goods in New York City.  Hmmmm... I thought about it for awhile, ran it past my husband and my son and we all agreed ~ why not?  So I requested more information and the rest is history. In April of 2010 I signed a contract with Stephanie and voila! I'm selling in New York City!

Stephanie owns the charming Stoopher and Boots (located at 385 Amsterdam Ave.). Well, she thinks she owns it... Actually it is owned by her constant companion here, Scout.

As you can see, he is the main attraction in the shop.  So much so that Stephanie came up with a fabulous idea.  She carries a lot of my Wee Ones in her store, so she sent me a note one day asking if I could design a Wee Dog to resemble Scout.  She thought that might be a big seller ~ seeing as how he's the most popular and beloved dog on the Upper West Side and all.  I said I'd give it a shot.

I have since lost track of how many Wee Scouts I have created and sent to her ~ and they are sold exclusively in her New York City shop.  Scout doesn't seem too impressed with his Wee Clone, but apparently the kids in the neighborhood think differently!

So Scout (and - oh yes, Stephanie, too) have inspired a new project for cmh design ~ Wee Clones of your pet.

With the success of the Wee Scouts, I'm tip-toeing into the land of creating impressionistic versions of people's pets.  (With the emphasis on impressionistic!)  So, if you are interested drop me a line (cindi@cindimh.com) and we'll chat.

If you would like to follow Scout (and - oh yes, Stephanie, too) on Facebook here ya' go!

(Photos courtesy of Stephanie - and of course, Scout!)  :)

Hello Hapa!

One of the things I love the most about operating a little business is getting to know other people who operate little businesses. And I have to admit to having a special affinity for women-owned and operated businesses. I love how women support each other.

[Enter Susan.  Enter Janet.  Enter me.]  :)

About a month ago my fabulous cyber-friend of 5+ years, Susan Sabo, recommended my Wee Ones and me to a shop owner she does business with in the charming little town of Seal Beach, California. Within about 24 hours, the contract was signed and my Wee Ones were being created for Hapa Collective.   And here they are - displayed in an adorable bunny carriage!  I am so excited to know Janet Peters and be a part of her cool little store. :)

So the saga continues ~ signing with Hapa Collective brings the number of stores across the country carrying the Wee Ones to five!  I absolutely love each one of my stores and store owners. It is a blast working with them ~ and each and every one of them a woman!

Susan was kind enough to snap these pix for me, so thank you my friend ~ another incredible business woman! If you would like to see some of the most awesome pet portraits and wedding photography ever check out Susan's work here and here.   And if you would like to follow Susan's engaging sense of humour and unique photography, follow her on Facebook here.

Just Hangin' Out

Testing... testing...

My dining room has become a test laboratory for my display for the upcoming "project hello." I'm fortunate to have inherited some snazzy wire mesh screens/panels (about the size of doors) which are literally going to take my display to the next level. As in a few feet up in the air.

I am experimenting with shelving and am closing in on the perfect solution. I'm excited about the possibilities and looking forward to playing with my new display. I even ordered a couple of professionally made signs with my logo and tag line. Whoot!

As you can see, The Wees are quite excited, too. Onward and upward! :)

Hello Project Hello!

I am so honored and excited and a wee bit nervous to have been accepted to be a part of project hello on June 25, downtown Denver at RedLine!

It is unlike anything I have participated in (although it is similar to RAW in a way, but different). It is a juried event with the theme of "introduction" - introducing yourself to artists of all genres thru your art. A written proposal as to how you would do that was required, as well as submitting images of your work.

My proposal (in a nut shell) was:

When people walk down the street and encounter another person the inclination is to look down or look away and just pass by in silence.

When people walk down the street and encounter another person walking a dog - well... the inclination is to stop, pet the dog (or at least admire it) and strike up a conversation with the dog-walking person. "What's his name? What kind of dog is he? Where did you find him? What a good boy! Do you walk this park a lot? Do you know if there is a coffee shop nearby?" Introduction made and conversation ensues.

When people stop by my booth at project hello they will meet me "walking" my Wee Dog, Coco - well resting on the park bench (actually a chair). To switch things up a bit, Coco will be the one asking questions - i.e., "What's your name? What do you do? Where did you grow up?"

The responses Coco receives to his questions will recorded and later will be shared in a post on my blog. I will also post a link to my blog on both my Facebook pages (business and personal). That, in turn, is a way for the connection to go beyond "project hello" to "hello friend." :)

I honestly was surprised (and delighted) to see "project hello submission acceptance!" in the subject line of the email last week. So today, preparation began. My goal is to have at least 50 Wee Ones ready for the event. I plugged in my inspirational movies (it was Johnny Depp day) and started the assembly line process. Five dogs and three zombies to start. I'm grateful to have a month to prepare - usually it is a week!

So background entertainment for tomorrow - possibly some British comedies like "Waking Ned Devine" or Meryl Streep movies or something crazy from Netflix online streaming. :) Stay tuned.

ARRRRRRR!

If you are a fan of Jack Sparrow, you know what today is! Yup, the opening day for Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides!

As an homage to Captain Jack, Captain Mack (inspired by his mackinaw-like bandana) has entered my Etsy shop

Arrrrrr, matey and shiver me timbers! Party on, crew!