How did you originally get into soapmaking?
There is only so much soap you can really make for yourself, your family and friends — at some point my seemingly boundless imagination had me dreaming up more things than I could ever give away. I didn’t consider selling, though; I just put that hobby on hold until my husband, Mike, opened a shop for his art prints. Then I was swept away, imagining all I could create in my own shop.
Tell us about your previous working situation and how you discovered Etsy.
I moved to San Francisco from Rochester, NY, back in 2000 to work for a newswire service. I originally worked in the newsroom as an editor/proofreader, eventually becoming a newsroom supervisor and trainer. A few years later, I moved to the tech department, became a help desk technician and software deploy coordinator for our internal systems.
One year, Mike got an Ashley G print from Etsy. He was so inspired that he opened his own shop, and in turn I was inspired by him! At the end of July this year, my daughter, Rowan, was born. I was due to go back to work from maternity leave on December 6, but I realized that my life needed to take another path — I wanted to build on my success with Savor and take it to the next level. I didn’t want to have Rowan in daycare for 10 hours a day. I didn’t want the long nights and sacrifices of the past years to be for nothing (because I probably would have closed Savor if I returned to work).
How did you prepare to transition to full-time Etsy selling?
In December of 2009 I switched my health insurance to be covered under Mike as a dependent, so I would be covered if I did decide to quit working. I also put as much as I possibly could into my 401(k) to take the most advantage of our company’s excellent matching for one last time (we both worked for the same company). We don’t carry debt except for our mortgage, so any additional cash went into savings.
What are the most effective ways you’ve promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?
- With my Etsy shop, I have found that listing new stock daily or as frequently as possible is the key to steady sales. I try to restock at least 5 items every weekend while Mike and Rowan go off for some bonding time.
- For off-site marketing, I encourage people to see if they can buy ads on websites that their target audience is interested in — a forum for greyhound rescuers, for example, might be a place to advertise handmade dog collars. On a local level, your city might have a blog that accepts sponsors or grassroots businesses as advertisers.
- I struggle with this, but having clear item descriptions, free of typos, and full of relevant keywords is great for your shop. I try to revisit my listings frequently because I know they need work! I can be in a rush to post a new item and won’t use all my tags or accidentally omit a feature of the soap that I meant to highlight.
- My most effective promotion is my Savor Saver sale. I typically host only 1-2 per year, but it’s a crazy event. I send out a notice to my newsletter subscribers and Facebook fans announcing that my soaps will be discounted up to 50% off. The sale lasts for an entire day and new items are posted at a steep discount each hour. They sell out in seconds, 40-50 soaps at a time!
What’s been your most popular item or line to date?
The Coconut Mochi scent has always been quite popular, and the Cinnamon Snowflakes scent is a wintertime favorite of my customers. My body butter, made from scratch, always sells out when I list it!
Have you made any business mistakes you regret?
I’ve spent money on things that didn’t work out, and that’s always a downer. One time I thought I would make wax melts (a candle alternative), but I was left with a mess on my hands. The supplies for that venture went to waste, but thankfully I didn’t invest too much in it. And don’t even ask me about my lip butter experiments!
What is the biggest challenge you face during your daily schedule?
Rowan is the most important part of my day, so naturally my work has to flow around her needs. She is just now sitting on her own and able to enjoy toys, so I can set her up in the Pack-and-Play and find 20 minutes to a half hour to get some crafting done. When she gets fussy after her playtime, I’m right there to take her out for a stroll or put her in a sling while I make dinner or tidy up the house. I tend to make more typos now: it’s a bit hard to type with a baby in my arms!
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
It’s the most fascinating and terrifying thing to me, to be so directly responsible for my part of our household income. Quite literally, the work I do is my paycheck. This gives me a drive and sense of responsibility I never had while working for someone else. In the end, I hope I’m a good role model for Rowan, just like my dad was for me. As a small business owner, my dad serves as a huge inspiration for me.
There’s so much I miss about downtown San Francisco: working in a tall skyscraper, fun and creative coworkers, amazing views of the bay, Alcatraz, the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge. Just walking down the street and seeing the amazing vibrancy of San Francisco is something I will always cherish.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
There is so much to learn that it can be overwhelming. Everything from product photography, writing ad copy, designing packaging, getting properly licensed and handling taxes — sometimes I feel like I’m a soapmaker 10% of the time and a business person the rest. However, it’s easy to get over that. I will take a long day in the soap studio and create a couple hundred pounds of soap and feel in my element again.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself or someone considering a similar path?
Grow slowly, if you can. While it’s great to have a million zillion projects in mind at all times (and as artists, maybe that’s just how it is), start with a small product line so that you have a nice and easy workflow. When Savor first started, I was often pulling 80 hour weeks between the shop and my full-time job. I would often get burned out, have no creativity left, and just feel exhausted. It was when I got pregnant with Rowan that I learned to slow down a bit, say no to a project if I needed to, and really focus on what was working (or not) with the business. The immediate result of that was clear: I grossed less in 2009 than 2008, but I made more profit.
What are your goals for Savor?
My immediate goal is replacing all of my packaging with my new designs, and I’d say I’m about halfway there. Long term, I would like to expand my wholesale reach. I don’t seek out wholesale accounts at the moment but a lot of great ones have found me, and I think they are crucial to my success.
Any additional words of wisdom?
Running my own business gave me such an amazing opportunity for growth. I have learned so much about myself – my limitations and my talents. If you can’t do something, learn it or hire it out. If you think your photos need work, see if a photography student or professor at a local college can tutor you for an afternoon. If you don’t have the time, try hiring a college student to photograph your items. Spend time at the library learning how to write ad copy for your listings, or have a friend read over your listings and give you tips. My next adventure is learning what I can about search engine optimization (SEO) because I think getting seen in the search results from places like Google is a necessity when you’re selling online.
I also just want to give a shoutout to Mike, the love of my life, because it is his patience with my craziness that let me embark on this wild adventure. His love and support are the backbone of my business and he has put in many long nights creating soap alongside me.
Thanks to Lisa for sharing her story. You can see some of her work in the Seller’s Items below.
Previous Quit Your Day Job posts
314 comments
Sign in to add your ownMegansMenagerie says:
Omg....Love love love your shop :) Congrats!!!!
1 year ago
JudiPaintedit says:
Congrats!!! Im shooting hard to be there by this time next year.
1 year ago
TwinkleStarCrafts says:
Wonderful shop. Congratulations. Good for you!
1 year ago
UnadillaWoodworks says:
WOW, we look forward to doing business with you in the near future. Thank you.
1 year ago
ViviansKitchen says:
Love to see all the products drying on the racks. Super cool pic. Best of luck in all of you endeavors. Cheers♥
1 year ago
JenneMello says:
You're an inspiration especially to those of us with Kiddos!
1 year ago
CarryTheWord says:
Great story!
1 year ago
IcingOnTheCupcake says:
Love your shop and products!!!
1 year ago
MissHildebrandt says:
Great Article! savor, may your wild adventure last and last! x
1 year ago
farmsteadladydesigns says:
What a great story and how cute that your hubby inspired you. Best of luck!
1 year ago
StudioZen says:
Thank you for sharing your inspirational story!
1 year ago
VivaGailBeads says:
Thank you for the inspirational story! I wish you and your family continued success!
1 year ago
LoellaMedina says:
Congratulations!!! You are one of my inspirations and I am so happy you decided to dedicate full time to your business! Now that I have read your article I realized we are in a similar path. I wish you lots of luck and all the best!!
1 year ago
studiopainters says:
cute baby. love your products. good luck.
1 year ago
dlkdesigns says:
Loved reading about you! I have always loved your work & yes, the coconut mochi is my all time fav!
1 year ago
modernbird says:
great interview Savor! i remember when you first started and wrote your "what i learned after 300 sales forum post"....i love seeing you grow, wishing you tons of success this year!
1 year ago
BearRubberStamps says:
Nice to see you go full time. Enjoy life!
1 year ago
OsoVictoria says:
Oh what lovely soaps! Congratulations on your continued success.
1 year ago
dmdesignsco says:
Congrats! I love you shop!
1 year ago
LemonLoveJewelry says:
Those soaps look good enough to eat! And your daughter is just so beautiful! I hope you see continued success ( : Amber @ LemonLove
1 year ago
TheVinylChalkboard says:
What a lovely story! Your soaps look delicious, and your daughter is adorable!
1 year ago
PinkBowBathBoutique says:
Congratulation Lisa!! I followed your same path, growing PBBB to the point that I could stay home with my now 15 month old son and for that I feel so blessed. You are an amazingly HUGE inspiration to me, and many other Etsy sellers, and I wish you much continued success! ~Amy
1 year ago
MetalRocks says:
Awesome article and shop! Congratulations on the success of both! :-)
1 year ago
TheVintageDesignShop says:
Lovely article - congrats on your success with both your beautiful shop and family! Very inspiring! :)
1 year ago
mcldrygoods says:
love your shop. terrific journey. :D
1 year ago
InvitingJoy says:
Thank you so much for sharing this story. You are truly an inspiration!
1 year ago
victoriawhincup says:
This is inspiring....Congratulations!
1 year ago
dooglelinhk says:
Cutest baby girl! What a wonderful story. Thank you for sharing and inspiring me.
1 year ago
sherrytruitt says:
So awesome to see you've joined "us", Lisa. Wishing you, Mike and Rowan the best of everything! xoSherry
1 year ago
iWALLS says:
Congrats on your success! What a wonderful story!
1 year ago
FuchstBags says:
Great story Lisa! Congrats to on your sucess, and I hope you will move your line of soaps in the next level soon! :)
1 year ago
BarelySewn says:
I found this super inspiring, thank you!
1 year ago
accentonvintage says:
You are so devoted to your work and life! Inspiring story and lovely soaps!
1 year ago
kzannoart says:
Thanks for sharing this inspiring story with a happy ending :)
1 year ago
babybayrs says:
News editor to soap maker is more or less like food scientist to seamtress, we all belong here. Thanks to etsy!
1 year ago
PetalPetal says:
Very inspiring! All the best for continued success!
1 year ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Lovely soaps, I hope theres much more success for you in the coming year!
1 year ago
ladyartista says:
I love your inspirational story and your soaps look amazing! I can't wait to order some of them! Keep up the fantastic work!
1 year ago
designgirl19 says:
Thank-you, excellent tips, enjoy hearing about your success!
1 year ago
yourvintagecamera says:
congrats Savor! I love seeing shops I recognize from the forums on the front page!
1 year ago
palomasnest says:
Congrats on making the change to full-time, Lisa! And love getting to see little Rowan here. It has been so wonderful to watch your business (and family!) grow. Cheers!
1 year ago
PatinaArtsAlchemy says:
Quit yer day job - always a fave feature article for me! Thanks for sharing, and good luck!
1 year ago
DeusFilia says:
This was so encouraging! Thank you so much! Mama and I just started our little shop, and we hope to see it grow...your tipes helped us out ;) Thank you again! Blessings, ~Miss Raquel PS: Your daughter is so adorable :)
1 year ago
Nathalyc says:
I love it ! congrats and best of wishes<3 xoxo Nathaly
1 year ago
AZCreativeStudio says:
Congrats! Being able to work from home is a dream of mine and your story inspires me! Thank you for sharing with us!
1 year ago
ikabags says:
Wonderful ! :) your daughter is how beautiful :)) I wish you and your family continued success! Cheers from another mom :)
1 year ago
TheWellingtonBoot says:
Your workplace looks like heaven :-)
1 year ago
SpaGoddess says:
great story! I loved seeing the photos of your soap studio! you go girl!!!
1 year ago
BubbleGumAndButtons says:
It is funny how our loved ones and little ones can change our life path so dramatically. Hold on to that stuff from your lip butter experiments it will make a wonderful sleepover party for Rowan one day.
1 year ago
bedouin says:
creative & down to earth ~ much continued success ~ your baby is too cute!
1 year ago
Vintage2NewJewelry says:
Wonderful story! Rowan is adorable! Congratulations on quitting your day job!
1 year ago
bunnyrunceramics says:
Inspiring!
1 year ago
myvintagecrush says:
Awesome products! Your studio looks so fun, like a mad scientist's! Congrats on a lovely feature :)
1 year ago
paulajeansgarden says:
good job and great decision:) i loved raising my daughter and working on the farm/in the greenhouse with her.
1 year ago
SusanFaye says:
Great example of how hard work, a beautiful product, and great marketing strategy can pay off! Thanks for all of the great tips!
1 year ago
DecadesOfVintage says:
I am happy for you. It is hard to pull all the pieces of your life together in such a fabulous way.
1 year ago
aerogkyr says:
thanks for the story, love your stuff
1 year ago
aoisart says:
Congratulations!! What a cute baby!!
1 year ago
VintageBlush says:
Wow!... Everything you offer sounds so deliciously decadent! Congratulations to you, and I must admit your sweet babe is truly adorable! :)
1 year ago
outofline says:
I am raising a child and business at the same time too, challenging! Congrats to you:)
1 year ago
oguerrero says:
Yummy shop! The soaps look good enough to eat!
1 year ago
PleasantPeninsula says:
Congratulations! What an inspiring story. Also, Rowan is so sweet!
1 year ago
StuckOnACloud says:
Congrats!!! As a newbie you give me inspiration! best of luck with all that's ahead for you.
1 year ago
lovelygifts says:
Congrats! and what a cute baby!
1 year ago
naomishandiwork says:
So neat!
1 year ago
beliz82 says:
Congrats !! Cutest baby ever !!!
1 year ago
Viverre says:
I really enjoyed reading your interview, Lisa. Your products are fantastic. :) Rowan is so cute!
1 year ago
BlkSheepProductions says:
the whipped soap products look amazing! what a great story, good work.
1 year ago
earlybirdgraphics says:
Great article!
1 year ago
necklush says:
so very inspiring! love it:)
1 year ago
Nashmod says:
I love your Etsy shop as well as your actual workshop!! Looks very organized and neat! I can't wait to be able to go full-time myself and it is always inspiring to read stories like yours! Best of luck to you!
1 year ago
thecareerscrapper says:
congrats! you are an inspiration to this mom!
1 year ago
scottishlilyjewelry says:
Hey there fellow SF Etsian!! I have been a long time fan of yours and absolutely love your products! I am a stay at home mom as well (my little guy is 17 months old). My jewelry line is more of a hobby than a full time business, but am hoping to turn it into something more very soon... just need to figure out how to do it! Very inspiring :) Thanks so much and much luck in the future with your business and family! Ros
1 year ago
jakboutique says:
I've been a fan since your featured seller article (February of 2008, I think). I love your products, and you really are an inspiration as a business person. Thank you!
1 year ago
Tumus says:
So good to see you featured here!! Your Shaving soaps are my favorite!
1 year ago
OceanAvenueSilks says:
Great story!! Thank you for sharing so much helpful information. I love that you are able to stay home with your daughter, and wish you continued success! Your soaps are my favorite!!! :)
1 year ago
greenwithenvy81 says:
Congrats! Your feature totally brings me inspiration! PS. your kiddo is soooo cute!
1 year ago
Kenozoik says:
I am in absolute awe. The soaps look so delicious and I bet they smell even better. I love how super organized you are. Congratulations !!!!
1 year ago
juliewhite1 says:
your story is so inspiring! congrats on all your success and i'm definitely going to try some of your products!
1 year ago
Rainbowclothing says:
So inspiring to hear that you can work around your daughter.Love the soaps colours!
1 year ago
HappyCampers12345 says:
Thank you for the inspiration!
1 year ago
ShamrockStudio says:
Love your shop and your story! A woman after my own heart you are! I dream of the day when I can be a full time artist; you've inspired me greatly as,I'm sure, many others as well. Continued success to you and your hubby and btw... your daughter is an angel straight out of heaven! Blessings!
1 year ago
HulaGirl1922 says:
you GO girl!!! best wishes ♥
1 year ago
JDWolfePottery says:
Congratulations! What an exciting time in your life!
1 year ago
prairieboutique says:
A very inspiring story...and I enjoyed reading it! I must add your workspace is wonderful..I wish I was that organized! lol Congratulations and all the best for 2011!
1 year ago
sincerelyabi says:
Congratulations! I loved reading about your journey to arrive to this point, and wish your business only the best in this new year! Very inspiring!
1 year ago
NovaofLove says:
Thank you so much for sharing. It's so inspirational!
1 year ago
azki says:
what a wonderful story! i particularly love your recommendation that a seller should let their shop grow slowly. i've had to force myself to slow things down a few times in recent months - sometimes the number of ideas is overwhelming, and it's easy to try to do too much and then get discouraged when you realize you're not superwoman after all heh heh heh... but i think your story is inspiring because it all seems very _real_. congratulations and best of luck to you! :)
1 year ago
PeterValentina says:
Thank you for your advice to take it slow. :o) Now I see I’m not as insane as I thought I was with all of the projects I want to get started on. Thank you very much for sharing your story.
1 year ago
oktopuss says:
it's wonderful people can make a living off what they love, it must take a lot of dedication to take on a baby and all those orders.
1 year ago
Candies64 says:
Congratulations!Awesome reading and that baby is a doll face xo
1 year ago
SandBoxStudio says:
I'm so happy you have found success! I lived in California for years (outside SF) but going into the city was my favorite past time. I love the hustle and bustle and the ecclectic people walking the streets. Congratulations!
1 year ago
theearlygirl says:
Good for you for being so determined and focus. Very inspiring.... but the photos of baby Rowan are the best part of the whole interview. She's yummy : )
1 year ago
RomanceCatsAndWhimsy says:
What a great story! Congratulations on your success - very inspiring. :)
1 year ago
milkfly says:
Wonderful, inspiring and helpful story. And the cutest baby ever !
1 year ago
stacystudios says:
Now THAT is soap! Wonderful!
1 year ago
jmayoriginals says:
What an adorable child! Congrats on your success.
1 year ago
elisemahan says:
lovely story, very inspiring! thanks!
1 year ago
jascamille says:
So nice to read your interview. I really wish I could be an apprentice in your shop!
1 year ago
theroyal says:
inspiring
1 year ago
colbyjune says:
very inspiring! Rowan is adorable!!!
1 year ago
paisleybaby says:
What an interesting, honest and inspiring story. Thank you for sharing!
1 year ago
TheZestyDesk says:
Wonderful story and Rowan is adorable. I'm so happy for you that you get to spend so much quality time with her and don't have to send her to daycare 10 hours a day! Struggling with that myself right now. Thanks for the interview and congrats on your success!
1 year ago
OlenaBacasArt says:
Very good shop.Your daughter Roman is beautiful.I wish you best.
1 year ago
Woojoo says:
Thanks for sharing your story! You're an inspiration to all of us.
1 year ago
vKnit says:
great story! xox
1 year ago
PoleStar says:
Love savor's soaps!!!! they are some of the best on etsy. And rowan is a gem, I recognized her before you! lol
1 year ago
sisforsupplies says:
Love your shop. Congratulations on your success!!!!!
1 year ago
graceartandantiques says:
yay! so happy to see that you are able to stay home with little Rowan and do what you love. congrats, Lisa!
1 year ago
ghettovinyl says:
Very nice products! Your daughter is beautiful, God Bless her and your business.
1 year ago
swagalot says:
You have gone big, you are definitely in the right place. thanks for the inspiration.
1 year ago
croseco says:
Beautiful stuff and adorable baby!
1 year ago
beckoline says:
Thank you for sharing! I can definitely relate to your quote below, and in the past few months I've begun the habit of organizing various project ideas to be revisited later. (I use Apple's software "Things", but there are many task organizers out there.) "Grow slowly, if you can. While it’s great to have a million zillion projects in mind at all times (and as artists, maybe that’s just how it is), start with a small product line so that you have a nice and easy workflow."
1 year ago
BeadinBabe says:
The organization of your work space inspires me!!! :)
1 year ago
GuineveresCloset says:
Beautiful work! What an inspiring article for those of us who *try* to work at home with little ones :)
1 year ago
evewhiteveblack says:
Thanks for the tips! I'm trying to make it happen craftily, while putting my kids first, too. I hope I'll find myself in your position soon!
1 year ago
ReeCreates says:
Fantastic interview. Congrats on such a wonderful business! :)
1 year ago
daytonmarie says:
You have beautiful products! Great job and best wishes!
1 year ago
EcoCessory says:
Thank you for your inspiration! I am encouraged to keep on, keeping on.
1 year ago
chasedreams says:
Yay, Savor! Such an inspirational story. Here's to your continued success!
1 year ago
anniekdesigns says:
Great story and truly inspirational! I love the great and practical advice. Best of luck for your continued success.
1 year ago
redemptionart says:
Thank you for taking the time to share your heart with us...I am inspired. Best wishes for a prosperous and joyous 2011!
1 year ago
KiwiStudioJewelry says:
Inspirational! Thanks for sharing your story!
1 year ago
visionquest says:
CONGRATS, Lisa!!! i'm so glad you'll get to stay home with Rowan. :o)
1 year ago
carlossantiago says:
awesome story and work! this is like a dream come true! Keep going!
1 year ago
perebags says:
I am so super excited to have read this!!!!!!! Congratulations Lisa!!!!!! xoxoxox :) Sarah
1 year ago
SoundsofSilver says:
seriously incredible and inspiring. it's HARD work - and you are doing such a beautiful job :) so happy you're able to be home with your Rowan too x
1 year ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Wonderful success story lisa and your rowan is beautiful lil girl. Great you'll be a stay at home mom, plus doing what you enjoy creating/designing/soap. Wish you much happiness now and forever.
1 year ago
MeToYouCrochet says:
Beautiful work !
1 year ago
TheLittleRagamuffin says:
Great advice, thanks for your story!
1 year ago
Parachute425 says:
You gave some good information on finance that will be helpful to those just getting started. And that you "grossed less in 2009 than 2008, but made more profit" is improvement. Continued success to you. (Cute kid!)
1 year ago
OhFaro says:
Savor is one of my favorite etsians. I am thrilled for her success, both in her business and as a new mom.
1 year ago
frommylifetoyours says:
Great story !!! I felt the same way about going back to work. Good luck in the future to come .
1 year ago
BlackStar says:
So nice to see you here Lisa! Great interview. And needless to say, what a doll Rowan is. She's growing up so quickly.
1 year ago
SamuraiGeekDesigns says:
inspiring story...we are new...2 items...starting slow. hope to be where you are one day...best of luck!
1 year ago
SaharasSupplies says:
So awesome!!! GO SAVOR!!!
1 year ago
ScrapunzelPixie says:
Fantastically inspiring! My daughter's nearly three and sometimes it's hard working with a little one so it's wonderful to see someone doing so well at it :)
1 year ago
ScatteredTenacity says:
Thanks for the inspiration and great advise. Your little lady is an angel. Cheers!
1 year ago
Powerofflower says:
Lovely shop and studio :) congrats!
1 year ago
ChloeANDMaddie says:
Congrats Lisa! Love your products and such a beautiful new babe you have!
1 year ago
ANANEE says:
I love this collorss!!
1 year ago
luckylife says:
SO so great and inspiring! I love the shot at the top, two beauties! Love savor and so happy it has worked out so well for you! I love the shots of your studio, all of that yumminess under one roof, yes! :) xo Melis
1 year ago
hayesdesigns says:
its so inspiring hearing stories like this. i only dream that one day i can do the same!
1 year ago
Xenotees says:
Go Lisa!
1 year ago
BatesMercantileCo says:
Great to hear about successes and your trial and errors. Keep doing what you're doing. Rowan=one seriously cute baby.
1 year ago
juliesadorabowls says:
What an inspiring story!
1 year ago
experimentalvintage says:
Gifted my sisters your Sweet Cake Whipped Soap for Christmas and they are in looooove! Congrats on your well-deserved success!
1 year ago
localevintage says:
Great article! I love your stuff! Thank you fro sharing.
1 year ago
odiliafu says:
Inspiring article! Thanks for sharing.
1 year ago
Krystyna81 says:
Congratulations! and that baby makes the cutest avatar ever!
1 year ago
Verdurebydesign says:
Inspiring and generously shared interview. All the best to your family. Congratulations!
1 year ago
phydeauxdesigns says:
Awesome QYDJ interview, chock full of great stuff! I'm so happy for you, Mike and Rowan, Lisa! xoxo
1 year ago
PinkSenorita says:
Loved your article! Thanks for sharing your tips.
1 year ago
AmberGypsySky says:
Fantastic work! Rowan is so adorable :)I hope to be where you are now sometime within this year. Best of luck!!!
1 year ago
PetiteMarguerite says:
Congratulations on your beautiful shop and thank you for sharing your story with us! You have worked very hard to get where you are today. What a wonderful example! Thank you for the inspiration, and all the best to you!
1 year ago
StudioConestoga says:
Your soap looks dvine!...I can imagine their beautiful smells... Best wishes!
1 year ago
StudioConestoga says:
Your soaps look dvine!...I can imagine their beautiful smells... Best wishes!
1 year ago
ArleenDesign says:
Congrats! Love your studio and your product!
1 year ago
FluteTeacher says:
Loved reading this! Congratulations!
1 year ago
JdeSignSbyJay says:
This was a very inspirational read. I hope to one day be able to do the same with my creations. All of your items in your shop look great! Your daughter is too cute :) Wishing you much success in all of your future endeavors.
1 year ago
wayfaringmagnolia says:
Always love seeing new Quit Your Day Job posts and seeing amazing artisans like her are doing well! There is hope for the rest of us! :)
1 year ago
brienna says:
Deeply inspired by your lovely, yummy sounding soaps and your story to do what you love full-time so you can also be with your family full-time. How admirable and encouraging. You also make everything look beautiful in your shop, I can imagine it took a lot of work, but it paid off.
1 year ago
ZellerZazzles says:
So inspiring! I'm at the cusp of walking out of my day job - this helps to keep me driven towards my goal!
1 year ago
limegreenmodern says:
Super cool post...congrats!
1 year ago
toriska says:
Great article, glad you're doing so well!
1 year ago
littlepancakes says:
I love it, but I may have a soap problem- I buy way too many!
1 year ago
HautePinkDesigns says:
Very inspiring! Great advice too!
1 year ago
earlybirdcreations says:
Wonderful article, thanks so much Lisa for sharing :)
1 year ago
lilabelledesign says:
great story, thanks for sharing
1 year ago
happyfuzzyyarn says:
Wow, they look good enough to eat!
1 year ago
handmaderomance says:
loved reading your story! congratulations on your businesses successes and all the best for 2011!
1 year ago
JewelsbyJasmin says:
always great to read about successful transitions from employee to business owner! great shop!
1 year ago
savor says:
Thank you, everyone! ♥
1 year ago
breadandroses says:
Congratulations on your well deserved success and this lovely interview! Cute baby, too!
1 year ago
e5jewel says:
Great story-thanks for sharing! Rowan is the cutest! Congratulations to you and your family and your wonderful products. :)
1 year ago
studiotuesday says:
Sounds like a great adventure!
1 year ago
MelissaBeeArtDenver says:
Inspiring!
1 year ago
izari says:
loved reading your story! So wonderful you can do what you love, make a living, and be with your child full-time.
1 year ago
rainyhandmaidy says:
Loved the article. I can't wait to try your soap!
1 year ago
renegadeperceptions says:
I am glad I got exposed to your shop from this article. I love soap! Your baby is probably the cutest I've seen in a while!
1 year ago
bluebirdbylucie says:
Beautiful amazing product. Congratulations on your feature!
1 year ago
OldeTymeNotions says:
Awesome job Lisa! Thanks for sharing your story with us!
1 year ago
SugarCubeVintage says:
congrats on your beautiful line! the coconut mochi sounds amazing - going to check that out now! cheers!
1 year ago
qwynwyn says:
Sweet story! Love your shop! Cute baby!
1 year ago
pinkpoison74 says:
super sweet story thanks for sharing :) xoxo
1 year ago
MadebyLinLin says:
Wow making soap looks so fun! No wonder you love it! Love your studio as well! :)
1 year ago
sasinbeeld says:
love it!!!
1 year ago
gazellejewelry says:
Thanks for sharing your story. ♥.•*¨`*•♫.•´*.¸.•´♥.♫.•´*.¸.•´♥ I ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥ YOUR SOAPS !!!! ♥.•*¨`*•♫.•´*.¸.•´♥.♫.•´*.¸.•´♥
1 year ago
PattiTrostle says:
Congrats! Wonderful shop!
1 year ago
jungledread says:
Love the look of your fabulous studio space!
1 year ago
lalalandArt says:
Your products looks gorgeous! Congratulations!
1 year ago
Handmadebyani says:
Thanks for sharing your story.. Truly Inspirational.
1 year ago
Quirkyville says:
Really inspiring your shop is amazing you deserve all of your success and more
1 year ago
AutumnLeavesJewelry says:
you are one of my favorite soapers, and such an inspriation, thanks for sharing your sage advice!!! love your cremes!!!
1 year ago
Evajune says:
Thank you so much for sharing your story. I think you give a very realistic view of how you can quit your day job.
1 year ago
TissaGibbons says:
It's a boost to hear your story.Keep up the good work.
1 year ago
AmyMadden says:
Thanks for the inspiration and what an ADORABLE baby!
1 year ago
ChrissiesRibbons says:
Wow! You're living the crafting mama's dream... though it's clear it has taken a huge amount of hard work. Many congratulations!
1 year ago
CarlasFunkyArt says:
Loved your story, and your workspace looks so organized! :)
1 year ago
honeycup says:
Really nice to hear. Loved seeing the workspace too.
1 year ago
YardSaleSisters says:
So inspiring! I'm now 6 months pregnant and in the planning stages of what to do after I have the baby, hoping I can be as motivated as you to take Etsy and my creative talents to a career level. Thanks so much for sharing!!
1 year ago
ameliatuttle says:
Awesome shop! That looks like a lot of fun!
1 year ago
hopespeony says:
You are do inspiring! You have my dream life :)
1 year ago
ellemoss says:
I loved reading this! very inspiring and great advice.
1 year ago
JennLeeBunker says:
Truly inspiring! Congrats.
1 year ago
MyFunkyCamelot says:
Good for you! I stay at home with my kids (who are now thankfully in school) and sew while they are there. I dream of making more income at it! thanks for your story!
1 year ago
MyFunkyCamelot says:
Good for you! I stay at home with my kids (who are now thankfully in school) and sew while they are there. I dream of making more income at it! thanks for your story!
1 year ago
ThriftyVintageKitten says:
Very inspirational! Nice job!
1 year ago
HeroDesignStudio says:
What an inspiring story. Congrats to you Lisa!
1 year ago
PurePalette says:
Thank you for sharing your story..It is one great inspirational story to me..and love your studio. My husband is working to change one of our living rooms to be my studio.
1 year ago
RubyOutlaw says:
Thanks for sharing! Great advice all the way around!
1 year ago
theonutmegotree says:
lovely! looks like you have your own little shop there!
1 year ago
rabbitdance says:
Congrats! ^_^ It's so important to have a spouse who's supportive and understands, especially when there's a little one around. (We have a little girl who's 20 months old. She loves having Daddy Time while I'm working in the 3rd floor workshop)
1 year ago
PurdyThings says:
GREAT advice, I have a million projects in my head, luckily my husband who I like to call my business manager keeps me grounded to one at a time. I think one of the best tools to have for success is someone who believes in you, yet keeps you focused. T Thank you so much for sharing and your daughter is just beautiful!
1 year ago
CrowesNest says:
Congrats! Your story is so inspiring!
1 year ago
cakebatter says:
I agree with others in the fact that this was simply inspiring! I too have many projects being tossed around and need to just settle on something that will give me fulfillment. Thank you so much for this...and I think I may have to order some coffee butter because it sounds absolutely delicious.
1 year ago
SimpleTraditions says:
I'm so happy that you were able to stay home with your beautiful baby! You won't ever regret it! Enjoy every second of it! I wish you and your family the best!
1 year ago
overthemeadow says:
Congrats on the great success of your shop. You sound very focused. Very inspiring interview. :-)
1 year ago
CottagePrimrose says:
How inspiring! I loved that through success you still made your daughter number 1 priority.
1 year ago
Shoottothrill says:
Great story! Much future success :)
1 year ago
strawberryluna says:
SO rad and huge congrats savor!! I didn't know that you had taken the plunge and gone full-time-savor, and I have to say I am beaming with pride for you girl! For the whole family :) Rowan is a beauty, it must be so wonderful to get to spend your days working for yourself with her in tow rather than spending so many work house away. Awesome chica. Kickass! Thanks for sharing with us.
1 year ago
seaoats says:
love your story! i've been following your shop since the beginning...it is beautiful and very inspirational! :D
1 year ago
GallivantingGirl says:
It's good to know that somebody with a young baby is trying to make a go with a business too. It's easy to think you're all alone when you work for yourself. You're an inspiration for me to aspire to, and I really appreciate you sharing your story. PS--Your baby is adorable. Congrats on the feature.
1 year ago
amradesigns says:
Always so inspiring to see someone have success! Someday I hope to be there too :) Congrats and way to go!!
1 year ago
creativelystrange says:
Great interview. Best of luck for this year!
1 year ago
valleygirldesigns says:
Thank you Savor, great article, I love your products!!!!
1 year ago
nicolecarey says:
congrats! all of your soap looks yummy!
1 year ago
countingstitches says:
OMG, I have to give you alot of credit!! I could never do what you are doing. I make jewelry, sew purses and knit and crochet my items and I thought I was busy. I also do the Framer's Market in the summer and my kids are grown. I do have a husband but he supports my business even when I got off to a slow start here on Etsy. I did quit my day job of being a secretary of 15 years. My creative juices were waiting to be explored as I became a business person at a very young age. I loved to make things ever since I can remember using my hands and to think that I could actually make a business out of it was just a dream. Thank you for sharing with all of us and keep creating :)
1 year ago
WhatsernameJewelry says:
Wonderful story. Congratualtions.
1 year ago
BasiaDesignStudio says:
Thanks for sharing your story. It is very inspiring. I am very new to etsy, and a little overwhelmed to say the least by the vast amount of information available to us to help us grow our businesses. Your story provided inspiration for me!
1 year ago
spac says:
Congratulations! You deserve it!!
1 year ago
Jenarter says:
Love your soap and shop! But your baby is by far your cutest, and sweetest creation!! Awesome story! ♥
1 year ago
MiaAndMot says:
Thank you for all of your wonderful advice! Really enjoyed reading your story and seeing your pics. I am so happy you found balance between your career life and mommy life. I am working toward it and enjoying every minute! Thanks again!
1 year ago
vintagenelly says:
Fabulous story!! Great honesty, tips, photos!! Your baby is adorable as well! Wishing you continued success!!!
1 year ago
thepapermoonstudio says:
Great article. Wishing you much success!
1 year ago
bydesign4u says:
You are a great role model for that adorable baby..Lots of admiration for all you have achieved!!
1 year ago
BeachHouseLiving says:
Love your story and the advice. Wishing you continued success.
1 year ago
EmilyWiserJewelry says:
what a cute baby!
1 year ago
EmilyWiserJewelry says:
what a cute baby!
1 year ago
kristincoffin says:
This has been my favorite Quit Your Day Job by far. That last shout out line had me a little teary-eyed: I think many of us doing Etsy full time as our livelihood have a backbone/unpaid assistant like Mike. Thanks for the reminder.
1 year ago
ParisCrossingDesign says:
I love to read success stories. Congratulations!
1 year ago
FireflyFantasies1 says:
I Love your story. Great advice on growing your business slowly. I have heard others say that as well. Thanks for your inspiration:)
1 year ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
Lisa you are truly living the dream and I love your studio space. Take care of that beautiful baby!
1 year ago
handbagsworkroom says:
Thank you for such a success story. Congratulations!
1 year ago
jewelrybyamyt says:
Wow! Thank you so much for sharing your business story.
1 year ago
rivahside says:
Lovely story. Your priorities are in the right order! Congratulations to you and I wish you much success!
1 year ago
uglythreads says:
thanks for sharing your story! i always enjoy reading this segment on the etsy blog.
1 year ago
dreadsandcurls says:
Savor is one of my favorite shops, I have purchased my favorite scent multiple times - continued success and I simply ADORE SAVOR!!!!
1 year ago
LeahChristina says:
Thank you for sharing! :)
1 year ago
janiceartjewelry says:
Great article. Thank you.
1 year ago
ThimbleNest says:
Congrats! Your products look wonderful, and so inspiring that you were able to do what is best for your daughter!
1 year ago
DesignsbyLQ says:
Lisa, just read your great interview...Its hard to make a decision like that, but sounds like you planned well, and worked hard! Cheers to you and your family. Continued success in the future!! I hope to be where you are some day!
1 year ago
OliveLongstocking says:
Your soaps look good enough to eat! Great story.
1 year ago
FavreBijoux says:
Enjoyed ready this story very much.
1 year ago
InformalEleganceKids says:
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story! It was very encouraging to read, and hope to one day follow in your footsteps. I wish you continued success!
1 year ago
birdhouseaccents says:
Congrats
1 year ago
ncfox527 says:
Such an inspirational interview. Thanks so much for sharing your story! I hope to be there someday too.
1 year ago
skyejuice says:
Great article! Savor is perhaps my favorite shop on Etsy!! :D
1 year ago
tscrapper says:
Love reading the stories of how fellow moms make it work. Congrats!
1 year ago
sarahndipities says:
This is great! Thanks for sharing your experiences and tips!!
1 year ago
2CountryGrls says:
You are truly inspiring...not sure if I want to eat them or bath with them! ;) Your story as a woman and mother is empowering. It makes me feel like I can make it too! Thank you
1 year ago
CassiasGarden says:
Rowan is SO beautiful! She must be the love of your life next to Mike! I am SO glad you got to quit your day job! Thank you for letting us see your kitchen when it was not quite pristine! It just makes it so much more wonderful! I have admired your work for quite awhile and I loved hearing firsthand your creative process being tied to your background of cooking. Thank you!!!! XO!
1 year ago
MixxMedium says:
this put a :) on my face
1 year ago
lamixx says:
congratulations what a great story thank you for sharing and wish you all the best and continued success :) xoxo ,
1 year ago
1CraftyDame says:
Thank you for this article! It was really inspiring!
1 year ago
andralynn says:
So inspiring! And your soaps are fabulous!
1 year ago
arsniccandy says:
Looking at the fotos of making the sopa....uhh...can I eat your soap, hehe:)
1 year ago
FunFancifulFlowers says:
good job
1 year ago
elegraph says:
Once I could stop staring at that baby's darling face (!!!), I moved on to the soaps - they look decadent enough to eat. Simply gorgeous.
1 year ago
WalnutWool says:
Lovely interview and very inspirational. Being self employed is probably one of the hardest jobs..but to me..its worth it!
1 year ago
adamfonos says:
eager to quit my day job 50% off for all my aceo visit my shop and pick! http://www.etsy.com/shop/adamfonos
1 year ago
Epiphany6 says:
Congrats, Savor! I've been a fan since Savor's beginnings & I'm so glad that you did not decide to close shop. Your statement"...I grossed less in 2009 than 2008, but made more profit" is so profound. Actually I find the whole article filled with wonderful information! Thank you and continued success!
1 year ago
CarefulLittleFeet says:
its amazing to be able to stay at home with the kids. I did for a while and now I so wish I could get back to that!!!
1 year ago
DaisyChainCrafts says:
What an inspiration - well done!
1 year ago
thebeadgirl says:
absolutely wonderful! congrats to you!
1 year ago
seedsofhawaii says:
Good decision and great to see your dream come true.. babies have rights to be with Mommy 24/7.. that's what can really make the world a better place! and ETSY is helping us moms do that. Good to hear your story.. God bless you.
1 year ago
AromaVana says:
LOVE,LOVE,LOVE your story! Keep up the fantastic, creative work!
1 year ago
AromaVana says:
LOVE,LOVE,LOVE your story! Keep up the fantastic, creative work!
1 year ago
TashinaFalene says:
Absolutely love your shop and the items are very tempting! Your daughter has to be the cutest baby I've ever seen too. :) Congrats on the feature and best wishes to continued success. Your story is positively inspiring.
1 year ago
sparkleandstorm says:
How exciting that you are at a place to quit your day job! Neat article
1 year ago
BellaFresca says:
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story from a fellow soapmaker. It's already been said many times but I'll say it again, your daughter is absolutely adorable! Best of luck with your shop and new family!
1 year ago
ShopRedLeaf says:
Congrats Lisa! I've seen your shop grow since I joined Etsy, and I'm in awe. Great interview and that little cutie Rowan is adorable!
1 year ago
Skyhawkdesigns says:
Great inspiration! Always feels good to know it can be done when you read these stories!
1 year ago
SoapStore says:
Great Article. Continued Success to you.
1 year ago
kitschcafe says:
22000 sales?! that's incredible!
1 year ago
valuablesreborn says:
Inspirational! I am new to selling on Etsy and I too am a parent. A single parent who has slowly been transitioning away from working outside of my home in order to spend quality time and be there for my children. It's nice to actually be able to be home when they get off the bus with a plate full of homemade cookies, milk and a smile. I love your story :)
1 year ago
JewelryByDeezines says:
What a great success story! Thank you for sharing your best marketing tips!! And congrats!!
1 year ago
cthings says:
Congratulations girl! So glad for you. Little Rowan is so cute! Continued success for the both of you!
1 year ago
fussykustoms says:
Great advice and information....thank you for sharing!
1 year ago
GypsyThreat says:
very interesting interview. your products are amazing!
1 year ago
tiialin says:
"It’s the most fascinating and terrifying thing to me, to be so directly responsible for my part of our household income." I love this line! It's so true, but might I add: it's so SATISFYING!!! I love being the reason for the money I earn, versus just getting handed a paycheck.
1 year ago
Emariecreations says:
I love this shop! Congrats on being a featured seller!!!
1 year ago
loosenoose says:
as being a new shop.. you give me hope..
1 year ago
loosenoose says:
as being a new shop.. you give me hope..
1 year ago
RYC09 says:
The cutest baby ever.
1 year ago
RYC09 says:
The cutest baby ever.
1 year ago
ElegantPartyBoutique says:
Thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
SusanStudio says:
you're an inspiration to all of us that still have a 9-5!! Congrats!
1 year ago
SusanStudio says:
you're an inspiration to all of us that still have a 9-5!! Congrats!
1 year ago
HeavenlyNaturals says:
I would love some marshmallow fudge soap!
1 year ago
moongriffin says:
Rowan is impossibly adorable!
1 year ago
moongriffin says:
Rowan is impossibly adorable!
1 year ago
Stephy1106 says:
Your story is so inspiring, and you have a beautiful daughter :) Love your shop!
1 year ago
ButterflySunflowers says:
Your story is very inspiring, thanks for sharing. Your shop looks great, nice supply of items.
1 year ago
CabinOn6th says:
Great story!
1 year ago
MaikiDesigns says:
Great indeed! Love the idea and the fact that you're a stay at home mommy!
1 year ago
Indigofera says:
Very Inspiring! I am heading on over to your shop ;)
1 year ago
Indigofera says:
Very Inspiring! I am heading on over to your shop ;)
1 year ago
PlantaeBotanicals says:
So Inspiring! I'm brand new and almost ready to get my shop in place :D keep it up and congrats!
1 year ago
trinkets2treasure1 says:
Wow! I can't wait to go to your shop and grab some items. Who doesn't love body butter and beautifully scented soaps? Thanks for your advice and sharing your story with us. It's especially helpful for us "newbies"!
1 year ago
kimychan says:
These lovely soaps look so delicious to eat. Yummy yum yum. Congrats for being a stay-at-home-work mom..Great of both worlds.
1 year ago
catchycatchme says:
Wonderful!
303 days ago
GiRLStreetVintage says:
Lisa you are amazing and so inspiring :) Thank-you for making me laugh when you justitfied typos cause there's a babe in your arms!! So clearly and simply put :) GiRLStreetVintage on etsy
236 days ago
shoptsarevna says:
Great article, congratulations!
141 days ago