Etsy

Oh I'm so excited to show you this  newbie seller ecram1 and her candles in unexpected, readymade holders.  My apartment is a mix of styles and these shabby chic pieces would fit right in next to my ceramic squirrels! We asked ecram1 a few questions about her time here on Etsy.

This is my first time I have ever sold my crafts. My friend lived in Philadelphia and when she saw my teacup candles, she suggested Etsy to me. Interestingly enough, I started making paraffin teacup candles, but after learning more about the quality and environmental friendly capabilities of soy, I decided to use it instead.

Etsy is a wonderful, supportive site. For a newbie who wants to run an online business, I have learned many things: how and where to promote, customer service, pricing and taxes. In the few months I have been on Etsy, I have been happy with my life. This is my full time job for me at the moment.

I dabble a bit in jewelry, and I enjoy it because it's a wonderful stress reliever! I also make resin pendants. I graduated with an architecture degree and I use my design sense in all my crafts and art. I decided to leave the corporate world of architecture to pursue an at-home business, and through Etsy my dream is starting to turn into a reality! I just want to "make something beautiful" and share with others.

I started making candles a year and half ago because I was getting married. My then-boyfriend and I went to antique shops, Goodwills and thrift stores, finding unique teacups. I made about 170 for my all my guests to take home. I adore tea and can't resist a highly fragrant candle. This is how my business was born. I also made all my bridesmaid jewelry!

I just joined the Etsy Trashion team. When I was in the forums one day, a person told me they loved my candles. However, they had never seen my shop before. They said I should put "recycle," "reuse," or "upcycle" in my tags because they love to put together treasuries that fit this area.  I had really never thought of my candles like this before. I looked into the Etsy teams and I came across Trashion, and I just love being a part of this team. This is such a great way to create something beautiful and also save the earth.

Recently Etsyfriends made a new team. When in the forums, Craftymomma let me know about this team. I am so excited about this team because it is based on charity, and always being involved with others on Etsy. I believe also it will help many newbies!