Etsy's Handmade Blog
Quit Your Day Job: ChaCha2

After being let go from a day job she already hated (on a day when she was locked out of her house in the rain), Lori of ChaCha2 decided she had no other choice than to make her goal of being an independent bag designer a viable reality. Plunging feet-first into self employment has taught Lori the importance of creating a plan for her business, setting both short and long term goals. She now knows the significance of remembering that things take time. After all, few things happen over night.  With these lessons in mind, Lori finds herself today running a sustainable business with the ability to take a two hour lunch whenever she pleases.

How did you originally get into the business of making things?

I think I have always made things. Even as a little kid my neighbor and I would would paint pictures and try and sell them to all the parents on our street from a stand we set up in my driveway. I have tried my hand in making all kinds of things: knitting, cooking, painting, sculpting, even paper mache. I started making handbags while I was in college and it stuck.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?

I always wanted to be my own boss, but had no real plans or expectations. Everything in my career has really been a result of circumstance and experimenting. I was kind of forced into taking the plunge about a year into being on Etsy. I was fired from a job that I absolutely hated, the same afternoon I locked myself out of my apartment (in the rain, no less). While sitting on my front steps, waiting for my landlord, I wasn't upset or worried, it just became clear to me that I had to make CHA CHA work.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?

Looking back, I wish I had been a little more prepared. I was really inexperienced, so I just started. I already had my business registered, but aside from that I would buy supplies when I had the money, make a piece, when it would sell I would buy more supplies to make something else.

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?

As a new business the marketing budget is small or non-existent. Not having a budget forces you to get creative with your marketing. Word of mouth has been great. I have had great support from bloggers all over the world writing about my stuff and sharing it with their readers. I always have cards on me and pass them out to anyone who I think may be interested. I have also found that having my own blog helps, as it gives your buyers a little look into what you do and who you are and keeps them coming back.

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?

I have tried a little bit of paid advertising here and there and I really haven't seen any return on it.

Walk us through your typical workday.

  • Wake up around 8am, grab my computer, respond to emails and create my list for the day. I can't live without lists, I have books full of them.
  • Take my dog for a long walk and head to my studio. 
  • I package up any orders, then refer to my list of things to do. I usually work in an "assembly line" kind of style. One day I cut all the leather and lining, them the next day I sew, and the next day I put all the hardware on, and so on. 
  • Around 4pm I take my dog home (which is a 3 min. walk from my studio), feed us, sit on the couch for a bit, then head back to the studio.
  • Finish up any orders and spend some time on the internet doing research, looking for new bloggers to contact, list a few new items on Etsy and take a few minutes to check the latest celebrity gossip.
  • Depending on how many orders I have that day or how many new ideas I have, my day can be any where from 10-12 hours long. I really don't feel like I work a lot though. I think loving what you do, combined with the freedom of creating your own schedule, makes long days feel normal.


What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?

I love not waking up to an alarm anymore. I love that I'm often excited to go to sleep at night just so I can hurry up and get into the studio in the morning. I love that I can meet a friend for a two hour lunch at two in the afternoon. I love seeing the direct result of my hard work. I really don't miss anything.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?

I feel like I would have seen more results faster if I had done a bit more research. I really just jumped and probably wasted quite a bit of time and money running in circles. Check out what other people in your field are doing and ask them questions; 99.5% of the time people are more then willing to help. I would also suggest creating a plan for your business and set both short term and long term goals: if you see it on paper it becomes much easier to accomplish. (There is something about crossing accomplished goals off my list that makes me happy, but maybe that's just me.)

For people working specifically in leather, I suggest working out your new styles in a heavy fabric similar to leather, maybe canvas. When I first started I would get so excited about new ideas I would start a brand new style in leather. Mistakes or miscalculations are bound to happen when you are starting out and using leather the first time around can mean costly errors.

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?

Increasing sales is always a goal. I would also like to take advantage of more of the features that Etsy offers, such as the Virtual Labs. I have been so focused on my own shop that I haven't taken the time to really explore all that Etsy has to offer. I have a few other ideas for my shop brewing, so you will have to stay tuned.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I guess if I could offer any advice or words of wisdom, it would be to really believe in what you love and work HARD for it. It is a LOT of work, it's full of all kinds of highs and lows, but there something about seeing your passion become a reality that makes it all worth it. It's also important to remember that things take time: everything doesn't happen overnight. I am a very impatient person by nature, so this has been a tough one for me to learn, but if you are working hard and doing the best work you can, people will take notice and it will pay off eventually.

I also want to the thank the whole Etsy community, admin, buyers and sellers. The amount of support here is incredible. Every kind convo is great motivation and just as valuable as a sale. Keep an eye on my CHA CHA shop...every day my sewing gets stronger and ideas get crazier. I'm really excited about this next year and think great things are just around around the corner.

You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here!  Take a look at some of Lori's gorgeous bags below.

Tags accessories, Bags and Purses, Canada, chacha2, fashion, full-time, leather, quit your day job, sellers, selling, success, Toronto, workflow, working
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210 comments     Login to add your own!

April 20, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. Ryanplz

always inspiring, and very interesting!
this is one of my favorites!

April 20, 2009 at 4:09 p.m. CositasSeriasVintage

wonderful article, absolutely stunning bags and seller.
:)

April 20, 2009 at 4:11 p.m. LaveMeSoapCo

every week this is such an inspiration

April 20, 2009 at 4:12 p.m. bridgemanstudios

Wonderful piece and best of luck for continued success!

April 20, 2009 at 4:17 p.m. BGBJewelry

I love reading these and I love her story. Kind of in the same situation...my husband was layed off and I'm suppose to stay at home with the kids. So, any tips I get from these stories really help! And what we can see from her studio, it looks awesome! Way to go and best of luck!

April 20, 2009 at 4:18 p.m. bobnstitch

Yes I am dreaming of the day I can write an article like this!!

April 20, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. RADCOW

great Interview. I loved the bit about being fired and locked out and rain all in one day, and how you took it well because you knew it was time. Congratulations! xo

April 20, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. ASADesigns

What fantastic bags! I keep hoping one of these days I can quit my day job too! Cheers and good luck!

April 20, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. 4TheSparrowsNest

Congrats Lori!! Fantastic work; we are all aspiring to be able to make a living doing what we love. Glad to see you've made it!

April 20, 2009 at 4:20 p.m. penguinandfish

love CHA CHA, great article, very inpsiring.

April 20, 2009 at 4:21 p.m. thecupcakegoddess

Very inspiring! Love the way you put it! Thank you!

April 20, 2009 at 4:22 p.m. nectorgirl

Great bags!

April 20, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. FancifulForm

Congrats!

April 20, 2009 at 4:26 p.m. CityChicCountryMouse

Love your story!

April 20, 2009 at 4:28 p.m. BululuStudio

Nice article, congrats!

April 20, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. sandali

I always say that once 1 door closes , 10 doors open !! What will be will be -- Look how amazingly it all worked out for you ... congratulations on your amazing shop -- I LOVE all your creations -- it's honestly very special !! Happy Days ;)

April 20, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. AnvilArtshop

Congrats, Lori! Loved seeing your whole story here... can't wait to see what else you have up your sleeve for CHA CHA! :)

April 20, 2009 at 4:32 p.m. elizandaxel

So inspirational, congratulations! I started etsy in a very similar situation. Laid-off (from a job I hated) and totally inexperienced, but its been the most amazing process and I'm so grateful I can do what I love everyday now. Keep up the fantastic work! :)

April 20, 2009 at 4:34 p.m. BettyBee

Really great post from someone who started out in a similar situation to my current one...

Thanks so much for sharing your experience!

April 20, 2009 at 4:39 p.m. FashionTouch

very inspiring, thank you for this great interview and sharing your best practicies.

Love the work you do as well!!!

April 20, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. uncharted

great work... thanks for sharing this story

April 20, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. KDemARTe

This was a great read! Congratulations & I wish you continuing success! Keep loving what you do!

April 20, 2009 at 4:42 p.m. aoifehorses

wow your pieces are really stunning-im starting off myself great to hear some first hand experience!

April 20, 2009 at 4:43 p.m. vivilian

wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
wow
love
love
love
love

April 20, 2009 at 4:46 p.m. additionsstyle

I look forward to reading these stories of successful Etsy artists. They really keep me fired up to work hard at my business.

Congrats Lori, your work is wonderful.

April 20, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. beatricestudio

Congratulations to you! I wish you much continued success!

April 20, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. strangelittleduck

beautiful bags... excellent tips and a nice article. I only hope to have one like this soon!

April 20, 2009 at 5:02 p.m. LoellaMedina

Congratulations! I really admire your work. Good luck with this new step in your life!!!!

April 20, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. Greenbriar

Congratulations! Very inspiring! Beautiful bags!

April 20, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. Traxa

What an inspiring story! Good luck, Lori! Freedom in what you do is definitely a goal to pursue.

April 20, 2009 at 5:06 p.m. ScottieinaCanoe

LOVE those handbags and great story :)

April 20, 2009 at 5:11 p.m. kristincoffin

i've always loved your shop, and knowing the person behind the bags is so--human. and a start up story similar to mine (getting let go from a job, then what next?) is very inspiring and exciting. thank you! and i can't wait to buy my next deluxe bag; i know where i'm going for it!

April 20, 2009 at 5:12 p.m. Mattamorphis

Oh Honey, I feel ya!

Fabulous bags darling.

-Matt

April 20, 2009 at 5:13 p.m. lovelygifts

Great article. Nice bags.

April 20, 2009 at 5:16 p.m. lissilulu

Thank you for your advice on leather and starting out a business. Great bags!
Lori

April 20, 2009 at 5:18 p.m. MinaLucia

Love the picture of you sitting waiting for the landlord and knowing that Cha Cha would work somehow! Bravo.

April 20, 2009 at 5:27 p.m. IceCreamCandy

love the bags:) nice work!!!

April 20, 2009 at 5:31 p.m. triskela

Great bags! And a great story. It's so inspiring to read about these success stories, and it's lovely to learn more about the individual behind the creations. Rock On!

April 20, 2009 at 5:33 p.m. MyWisteriaCottage

I think these bags are very nice and well done. Keep on doing!

April 20, 2009 at 5:37 p.m. JessicaPoundstone

Yay for self-employment : )

April 20, 2009 at 5:37 p.m. kitschcafe

what a great article! it's funny, because i have found myself in the same position- jobless and needing to dive in to etsy full time. exciting and scary! thanks for the inspiration!

April 20, 2009 at 5:38 p.m. letdownyourhair

wow! it's great to see a successful canadian entrepreneur!

April 20, 2009 at 5:42 p.m. EpicBones

another success story!! great bags, and good lookin' studio too! congrats

April 20, 2009 at 5:43 p.m. SeaFindDesigns

Way to go girl..... great bags!!

April 20, 2009 at 5:46 p.m. jenniferlynnstudio

Gorgeous bags!! Continued success to you! I always enjoy these inspirational stories. Gives hope to us all! Thanks for sharing.

April 20, 2009 at 5:47 p.m. SouthernSucre

Congratulations! I love the white wristlet bag:)

April 20, 2009 at 5:47 p.m. baconsquarefarm

Great handbags, wonderful success story and a cute girl to boot. Awesome studio, love how you take walks with your dog and have long lunches with friends. Sweet~!

April 20, 2009 at 5:50 p.m. EJPcreations

Great bags!!!! Very inspiring article!!!

April 20, 2009 at 6:05 p.m. DalkullanJewelry

Wonderful story of hard work and creativity paying off. Congratulations on your success ChaCha2! All the bags are wonderful, but the white wristlet is just so adorable!

April 20, 2009 at 6:12 p.m. stubborndog

Yay!! I love reading these. Great tips and encouraging words.

April 20, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. badinfluence

Totally inspiring! You are very talented.

April 20, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. lauradeponte

Great skill and fantastic designs. Also..happy birthday! Keep up the amazing work!

April 20, 2009 at 6:33 p.m. sherrytruitt

Great interview, Lori. Continued success to you.

April 20, 2009 at 6:36 p.m. asundrynotion

Congratulations! Keep these weekly doses of inspiration coming, Etsy.

April 20, 2009 at 6:38 p.m. pinpinn

SO inspirational! It makes me wanna do the "chacha" LOL

April 20, 2009 at 6:41 p.m. littlepancakes

cute! Such an awesome craft to be doing. I would love to work with leather.

April 20, 2009 at 6:42 p.m. PetitOiseau

yay lori -- great article! I have one of lori's bags and it is BEAUTIFUL.

April 20, 2009 at 6:43 p.m. hushmouse

I really love this column - everyone is so inspiring, and it seems that the thoughts they have are similar to those that I entertain.

Beautiful bags too!

April 20, 2009 at 6:43 p.m. 3dots

LOVE the Toya bags!!!

April 20, 2009 at 6:45 p.m. foxtrailgeneralstore

another great etsy article! I love these handbags!

April 20, 2009 at 6:49 p.m. galstudio

always wonderful to hear about a canadian success story!

April 20, 2009 at 6:59 p.m. RARAMODO

I am soo moved by your story! Congratulations!!! I wish you even better times. Good luck!

April 20, 2009 at 6:59 p.m. Sheeda

Great Article!!!!! I have just started putting my creative juices back into motion, and I find your article inspirational. In your article you stated to ask questions, so I may be asking you if you don't mind. Great Bags, Great Story and wishing you Great Success.

April 20, 2009 at 7:04 p.m. Sheeda

Reminiscent of Coach (which I LOVE)!!!

April 20, 2009 at 7:10 p.m. Minnie829

Nice article, very up lifting! :-)

April 20, 2009 at 7:16 p.m. ReThread

Great article, wonderful story. I'm feeling inspired and ready to find my niche.

April 20, 2009 at 7:28 p.m. AnnaKayCreations

Great article, great handbags!!!

April 20, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. LoveandLust

I needed this inspiration today - thanks for the great article!

April 20, 2009 at 7:42 p.m. AstraeaApparel

Love the bags!! The Entourage City Tote reminds me of Tano, which I love!! This article really hit home for me, as someone with a new shop trying to find the most efficient way to create and market clothing that I love. Thank you!

April 20, 2009 at 7:51 p.m. poppyswickedgarden

GREAT ARTICLE! WONDERFUL BAGS!

April 20, 2009 at 7:56 p.m. thelonebeader

Very inspiring article!

April 20, 2009 at 7:59 p.m. theaxx

SUPER SUPER INSPIRING!!! You go girl!

thea.
xx

(www.forthevisionaries.tumblr.com)

April 20, 2009 at 8 p.m. Itybitybags

Really great article! Your bags are awesome too! I

April 20, 2009 at 8:01 p.m. Toxicguineapigs

thats awesome, I wouldn't miss anything about my day job either :)

April 20, 2009 at 8:05 p.m. sewlutionsbyamo

I loved reading your story, it is very inspirational to see someone from the T-dot up in lights here. I wish you continued success.

April 20, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. SimpleTraditions

Thank you so much for sharing! Awesome story.

April 20, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. PoorRobot

Congrats! The bags are lovely!

April 20, 2009 at 8:09 p.m. VintageSurplus

inspiring, dreamy, wonderful!!

April 20, 2009 at 8:24 p.m. east4thstreet

Terrific article, I'm inspired!

April 20, 2009 at 8:25 p.m. NanLawson

beautiful bags - this is my favorite storque series.

April 20, 2009 at 8:25 p.m. pengpengs

Lori is adorable! Inspiring story.. as many of us can relate to the 'being locked out in the rain' ;)

April 20, 2009 at 8:26 p.m. PotteryOKC

Nice article, very inspiring!

April 20, 2009 at 8:26 p.m. gretchenmist

great article and gorgeous bags. thanks for sharing your advice etc. beautiful studio too :)

April 20, 2009 at 8:39 p.m. HibouCards

Very inspiring, as usual Etsy's articles rock!

April 20, 2009 at 8:40 p.m. creativethursday

congratulations!!!! always love a story on another person willing to take the leap & your bags are gorgeous!! wishing you much continued success!

April 20, 2009 at 8:51 p.m. Emburr

Good for you ChaCha2!

April 20, 2009 at 9:28 p.m. junyandmilo

Such a great story! I can relate to it since I was in a similar situation. Sometimes really BAD days can open the door to exciting new things :)
And wow, the studio looks amazing and the bags are gorgeous!
Greetings from Switzerland & good luck to CHA CHA

April 20, 2009 at 9:38 p.m. pulpsushi

Congratulations! What a terrific read. I went to your blog and saw your dogs, CUTE!!! Much luck to you and your business!

April 20, 2009 at 9:49 p.m. ModFarmgirl

Yay ChaCha!!!! Congrats! Loved your story, very inspiring! (btw, I love making lists too!!)

April 20, 2009 at 9:51 p.m. slumptown

Great interview. Very inspiring and great advice. I too am not patient. Wishing you lots of continued success.

April 20, 2009 at 10 p.m. HevVinDesigns

Your bags are beautiful. Thank you for sharing how you make it work as far as planning ahead and organizing your time. It's very inspiring.

April 20, 2009 at 10:06 p.m. gilstrapdesigns

You have really beautiful handbags. Your interview was very encouraging. Keep up the beautiful work that you do.

April 20, 2009 at 10:11 p.m. worksandfinds

Congratulations, great interview. Your bags are fabulous.

April 20, 2009 at 10:29 p.m. bamdesigns

great feature- it shows you that it can be done and it is inspiring to read that if you work hard you too can do it! Great job

April 20, 2009 at 10:37 p.m. AnLieDesigns

You are an inspiration to those of us who dream of finding their niche and running with it!!!

April 20, 2009 at 10:39 p.m. LittleCritters00

Thanks Cha Cha. I really needed to here a uplifting story. I've been struggling and I know my hard work will pay off. Thanks for lifting me up.

April 20, 2009 at 11:12 p.m. rachelungerjewelry

Great job Lori! I am loving my Stella 3-in-1 shopper. It is gorgeous and perfect and wonderful in every way. Can't wait to see what's next!!

April 20, 2009 at 11:12 p.m. TheBrassHussy

congratulations on your hard work and success ChaCha!

April 20, 2009 at 11:21 p.m. valpoling

Great article. I am similar, I buy supplies when I can afford it, have no real marketing skills, etc. I recently started my own web store at www.mommytyme.org, but find the monthly fee and the low traffic hard to justify keeping it. I pass out cards everywhere and have tried some internet advertising- but it is really expensive. It is also hard to sell here on Etsy as there is so much competition. I am not really sure how to boost sales. I am no photographer, so my pictures really do not do the product justice. Any Ideas on boosting traffic? Would it be smarter to focus on one selling outlet- either Etsy, Ebay or my web store? My husband was recently laid off, I work full time, but was really hoping to move ahead in my craft and make up some of our lacking funds with my sales. I hit flea markets and craft shows. I currently sell at every local farmers market. Any ideas?

April 20, 2009 at 11:25 p.m. akane

Inspiring story ChaCha:)

www.akanedesigns.blogspot.com

April 20, 2009 at 11:26 p.m. StitchinStyle

To ChaCha, your bags are the BOMB!!! and your story is very inspiring. Good fortunes to you.

April 20, 2009 at 11:28 p.m. thelittlebrownwren

Very inspiring! Congrats to you and best wishes. =)

April 20, 2009 at 11:28 p.m. Divanni

Really inspiring story. Congrats, your pieces are stunning! I wish you continued success :)

April 20, 2009 at 11:29 p.m. SallyRags

What a fabulous inspiration! Bless you and may you sell a million beautiful handbags!! Off to check out your shop!

April 20, 2009 at 11:31 p.m. darvesh

My fave QYDJ story so far!

April 20, 2009 at 11:32 p.m. StitchinStyle

And to Etsy this is the best feature of all. I am always so inspired by "Quit your day job". I cant wait to read every week. And cant wait to get my interview.:)

April 20, 2009 at 11:33 p.m. BeeGracious

Thanks for sharing a great success story!

April 20, 2009 at 11:37 p.m. BirdWatching

I love to hear about these stories. It gives me hope! I think being able to quit my job would actually make me cry rivers of joyous tears. haha.

April 20, 2009 at 11:46 p.m. PeekoApparel

WOW! you are amazing! just reading into your first opening paragraph, I couldn't have related to your similar situation as I am now. I too am jobless, balancing idea of whether or not its worth my time to continue to look for employment to enable myself funds for supplies, and or keep living purchase to purchase till I am no longer having have to worry. Nonetheless, I found your story to really hit close to home for me and very motivating.
:D

April 20, 2009 at 11:49 p.m. marvelousa

These bags are just HOT.

April 20, 2009 at 11:52 p.m. Peekb4

this is now my new favorite inspirational story. luv your style!

April 20, 2009 at 11:55 p.m. MixedMediaByZehner

Thanks for the inspiration. I've got to learn to hurry up and wait!

April 21, 2009 at 12:02 a.m. 308thstreetdesign

I just love the bags. I'm hoping someday I'll be able to be in this article...

April 21, 2009 at 12:11 a.m. fineartstoneware

Great inspiring article. And I love the bags!

April 21, 2009 at 12:18 a.m. CutieDynamite

Awesome! And I love the white clutch with hearts!

April 21, 2009 at 12:27 a.m. favoredfrog

You are a total dynamo treat!

April 21, 2009 at 12:53 a.m. kiuD

Wow, what a wonderfully inspirational story. Keep at it chacha2!

April 21, 2009 at 1 a.m. perebags

Thanks so much for sharing your success story! It definitely gave me a little more hope. :)

April 21, 2009 at 1:40 a.m. theferriswheels

great shop, great story - thanks for sharing it with us!

April 21, 2009 at 3:18 a.m. WanderlustBling

fun! always wonderful to see.

April 21, 2009 at 3:45 a.m. voleurdebijoux

congrats! lovelove your studio space and thank you for sharing your story. :)

April 21, 2009 at 3:49 a.m. BluCille

Nice.

April 21, 2009 at 4 a.m. ClareBears

brilliant advice and well done :)

April 21, 2009 at 4:25 a.m. setenta

what a great Birthday present! I see it was your Birthday yesterday :)

April 21, 2009 at 4:35 a.m. washwhendirty

INSPIRING :)

April 21, 2009 at 5:42 a.m. zombuki

I'm so thrilled to see someone finally say that they don't miss anything!

April 21, 2009 at 6 a.m. SpunFromHome

Wonderful article. I know what you mean about the day job. I quit also - I hated working for Morons-R-Us. Doing what you love is everything. Great bags, love your shop, I have my eye on a couple of things.

April 21, 2009 at 6:24 a.m. PrairieFairyDesigns

I found this article so inspiring and impressive I love the designs and mission of the artist. May her days serpass her dreams in magic and luck.

April 21, 2009 at 6:34 a.m. ovgilliesdesigns

Inspiring article and great work. Off to work hard!

April 21, 2009 at 7:25 a.m. BabbidgePatch

congrats cha cha ~ thanks for sharing !

April 21, 2009 at 7:36 a.m. FirstLove

Loved this interview!! I am (also) a very impatient person and find the "waiting" hard but she has really encouraged me the whole thing can work with a bit of patience!!!
I wish Lori tons of future success with her amazing bags! :)

April 21, 2009 at 7:40 a.m. SherryDoleArt

Thank you for the candid interview. So motivating. You're right, everyone here on Etsy is wonderfully supportive. I've been in retailing for a long time and never have seen anything like it.

April 21, 2009 at 7:58 a.m. sisply

very beautiful bags!

April 21, 2009 at 8:08 a.m. MelanieMade

beautiful bags! Thank you for sharing your story, and congratulations on being so successful!

April 21, 2009 at 8:08 a.m. Marolsha

Congrats Lori ! I bought 3 of your bags recently and I love all of them ! Thank you for letting us get to know you better ! Your article is very inspiring and hope that all of us can be as successful as you are !

April 21, 2009 at 8:11 a.m. lucyvnz

loved it all

April 21, 2009 at 8:27 a.m. DollsClothesBeds

I admire your talent! The bags are stunning and look so soft and supple even in the photos! I am saving up for your Alesha Bag. I hope this article keeps you busy for the next six months! Congrats!

April 21, 2009 at 8:28 a.m. bobbinalong

Each of us on Etsy has a passion for creating, whether it is sewing, knitting, painting, whatever. So wonderful to see someone who can grasp an opportunity and make it pay off. It inspires us all to try a little harder, enjoy what we do a little more, and be thankful we each have a special talent. Good article.

April 21, 2009 at 8:34 a.m. savistudio

very inspiring, thank you!!!!

April 21, 2009 at 8:40 a.m. LeftHandHats

Great bags!!! I've just left my day job of almost 10 years and am hoping to make my shop viable; it is great to hear from someone who has done just that! Again, GREAT bags!!!

April 21, 2009 at 8:52 a.m. MossRoseDesigns

Very talented!! Congratulations on making it all work -- your bags are gorgeous!! :)

April 21, 2009 at 8:54 a.m. bestnesthomegoods

Very inspiring! LOVE the bags! Thanks for sharing!

April 21, 2009 at 8:57 a.m. inbloomdesigns

Wonderful and inspiring article! I love reading these!

April 21, 2009 at 9:34 a.m. enchantingimages

what fabulous bags!!! so great to read these stories

April 21, 2009 at 9:48 a.m. SparkleMe

Such stunning bags!! Congratulations

April 21, 2009 at 9:50 a.m. FluteTeacher

I enjoyed seeing the pictures of your studio. I like to see how everyone's studios are different! Your bags are very nice.

April 21, 2009 at 9:52 a.m. SparkleMe

Go Toronto!!

April 21, 2009 at 10:22 a.m. blondiemom11

These stories are wonderful and inspiring.
Best Wishes. Your bags are fabulous!

April 21, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. BeadfullyYours

As a brand new member to etsy - I LOVE these articles and find the information priceless! The bags are gorgeous. Thanks for sharing!

April 21, 2009 at 10:42 a.m. anneiwanin

woop woop girl!!!
beautiful bags!!

April 21, 2009 at 11:34 a.m. squareware

Nice photos and looks like you have a beautiful studio too!

April 21, 2009 at 11:49 a.m. littlepinkpebble

wow~!! i want to quit my job~!!!!!! Love this series

April 21, 2009 at noon VintageRoseClothing

What an inspiring article! I too found myself jobless about 6 months ago & contemplated starting my vintage store for about 3 months before I finally took the plunge. I can totally relate to being impatient... I want my sales to be higher right NOW, but am a million times happier working for myself, even if I do work on and off 24/7. I only wish I would have started sooner, that way I would already be 6 months in instead of 3. It's always encouraging to hear from similar etsy sellers that have succeeded. Congrats!!

And by the way, I love that little white heart clutch....

April 21, 2009 at 12:04 p.m. twinklyspangle

I also adore that little heart clutch - this is the first 'Quit Your Day Job' that I have read, and I feel really inspired now - I wish Lori the best of luck with her beautiful bags xx

April 21, 2009 at 12:07 p.m. elisasherejewelry

Your work and story are amazing! Thanks for inspiring us.

April 21, 2009 at 1:01 p.m. youniquebydesign

Your story is absolutely amazing and inspiring! Your work is wonderful. keep up the good work.

April 21, 2009 at 1:06 p.m. HazelHoney

Very inspiring I'm also a bag maker (fabric) and I love reading about other bag designers.

April 21, 2009 at 1:46 p.m. FiredUpDD

Way to go! Thanks for your story and inspiration.

April 21, 2009 at 1:58 p.m. thebestvintage

Hey congratulations! Great article.

April 21, 2009 at 2:23 p.m. StorybookStitches

Your story is so uplifting, and your work is beautiful!

April 21, 2009 at 2:28 p.m. greenspringstudio

Thanks for the great inspiration. I am in the process of getting my own Etsy shop set up. I am trying to take my time to avoid as many mistakes that I can.

April 21, 2009 at 2:46 p.m. paulacelaya

great baagggggssss. you have inspired me. thanks.

April 21, 2009 at 3:02 p.m. roseredwinter

Great article! Thanks for the inspiration.

April 21, 2009 at 4:10 p.m. QuercusSilver

Great down to earth advice and a really uplifting attitude. I feel so positive after reading this. Thanks

April 21, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. VintagePatina

Uselful, down to earth info...makes me more determined than ever to make Vintage Patina a success.

April 21, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. belaluna

Super inspiring! Thanks for sharing the info and wishing you bigger and better sales in the rest of 2009!

April 21, 2009 at 5:28 p.m. BigelowDesigns

great advice, congrats!!!!!!

April 21, 2009 at 6:40 p.m. RenJewels

The bags are lovely and the story inspiring. Thanks for this.

April 21, 2009 at 6:50 p.m. redonions

Absolutely beautiful!!!!! I believe I need to dive back into that pool myself. Lets hope 2009 is better for all of us.

April 21, 2009 at 8:49 p.m. KamakuraStudios

Just started my shop and even tho I've spent months preparing to launch, I still feel unprepared. Just closing my eyes and jumping in! Thanks for the useful info on staying organized with your day.

April 22, 2009 at 1:02 a.m. swipxa

Very cool bags lol and very cool gal

April 22, 2009 at 2:16 a.m. ihaveaprint

Wow, I can really relate to that. Just got off my day job, (recession you know), two months ago and decided to take the plunge and be a freelance designer.

Thanks for the article, I already followed one of the advices, here's my blog:

http://www.ihaveaprint.blogspot.com

April 22, 2009 at 3:54 a.m. strickliebe

Great work, inspiring and admirable story. Thank´s for sharing your experience.
Like your work and whish you all the best for 2009.

April 22, 2009 at 4:37 a.m. WraptInFelt

Always willing to take cues on how to survive without a 'day job'.

April 22, 2009 at 7:17 a.m. underthewire

Wonderfully inspiring...sometimes it's things that seem the worst in our lives that lead us to the best.

April 22, 2009 at 7:49 a.m. VenitasBoutique

Your bags are wonderful. Your story very inspiring,I'd love to quite my day job........ keep up the good work.

April 22, 2009 at 9:12 a.m. LHogan

I LOVE YOUR BAGS! I faved a few before reading this article! Well Done!

April 22, 2009 at 11:06 a.m. metsyetsy

Wow, That is soooo assume, inspiring and one day I hope to accomplish. Our fields are differnt but the goal,objective is the same.Your tunnel was true-ly your lite....
I also love your bags..

April 22, 2009 at 11:08 a.m. Nelly23

I love reading stories like this - keep them coming... Maybe someday I will be locked out of my house and just think I don't need this job - and quit!!! Good Luck and keep up the great work!!

April 22, 2009 at 11:47 a.m. AwApplesauce

As always, a great read. Like just about every other interview, though, she didn't really say how she became so successful or what exactly she does to promote herself. This is a very loaded question, I know, but it's really the meat of what we all want to hear. She mentioned bloggers, do most full-time sellers just shoot out emails to bloggers asking them to feature their store?

April 22, 2009 at 12:27 p.m. BabyNest

Inspiring article. Thanks so much for sharing and the wonderful advice. Much success to you and your shop...and your dog.:)

April 22, 2009 at 12:51 p.m. Morado

These real life stories are always so insipring. I'm so glad Lori's advice to everyone was not a cliched..... 'take good pictures' but rather something very useful. I appreciate that.

April 22, 2009 at 1:02 p.m. karla100

Lovin' this article. I am new to Etsy as far as selling, and I guess that 'nothing happens overnite thing applies to me' because I am getting very impatient (haven't sold anything since I started in March) Blogging is totally new to me and I don't understand any of it yet, but I'm trying. I just need to give myself some time and come up with a plan.

April 22, 2009 at 1:02 p.m. 51art

Thank you for this. My dream is what you have made happen. It does take a lot of work, and targeting the right places is the hard thing to figure out. Thanks for this inspiration.

April 22, 2009 at 1:42 p.m. JAdamsDesigns

Very inspirational! Love the bags!

April 22, 2009 at 1:45 p.m. brownbunnybyiris

This story is so inspiring! Congratulations!

April 22, 2009 at 2:13 p.m. cajunrosedesigns

I did the same, jumped right in, one day I just decided to move forward and hopefully I can quit my day job. I strongly believe that my business can succeed if I stick with "As much as I love selling my creations, I love creating them even more."

April 22, 2009 at 2:59 p.m. MichelleStudio

Love those bags. Very inspiring story as well.

April 22, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. gingercardco

Was hoping to see your dog in one of the photos! I used to work for myself, and one of the biggest perks was bringing my dog to work!

April 22, 2009 at 3:46 p.m. cyndimac

I just signed on today. I owned my own business and struggled for three and one half years, seven days a week before I had to dmit that it ddn't work. I hve been home waiting for the next journey to begin and I have gone back to the basics. Reading, baking.........when I realied nothing else brings more joy to me than baking for people. It is my way of spreading love. I loved reading your article and am determined that I will save for my first purchase from you!!! Thank you for the inspiration.

April 22, 2009 at 6:39 p.m. asmushomeinteriors

I really enjoy these stories. They are so inspiring, and they provide great marketing ideas. Best wishes for much success with your business!

April 22, 2009 at 6:46 p.m. DesignsBySBDI

Your bags are gorgeous and your enthusiasm inspiring!!!!
Any time I here that another creative individual has forged a niche in the world of self employment I get excited. I have worked for myself for many years now and would never return to the “Rat-Race”. It is always a challenge and a little scary when you leave “job security” (non-existent anymore) and enter the realm of the unknown self-employed, but well worth the chance. I work longer and harder than a typical 9-5, but at the end of the day I am still excited to do what I do. Your story is a triumph and I will watch for your continued success.

April 22, 2009 at 9:50 p.m. HinStyle

great article I love what you are doing and so am I,,, I am just new in self-employed and new to Etsy or selling online ,, I may need some advice from alot of people who already succeed with what they are selling , thanks again for great article

April 23, 2009 at 7:43 a.m. RachelMarsden

Thank you so much for this article. I'm about to set up my Etsy shop and I just got a similar motivation to yours (I've lost my job). This gave me hope and very practical advise that I will be able to use. Eg. Patience. Cheers!

April 23, 2009 at 9:54 a.m. WayneDrops

Thank you for the inspiration. I am still in the process of getting started, and feel somewhat overwhelmed. Your article has given me courage. See you soon and thanks again. Your bags are beautiful!

April 23, 2009 at 11:53 a.m. vintagetakeout

Wow, our pieces are really beautiful and what a inspiring story.

April 23, 2009 at 6:31 p.m. Jenifersfamilyjewels

Yay!!! Another wonderful story!! Thank you again marymary for sharing this inspiration with us!!

April 23, 2009 at 9:02 p.m. ThePlumTree

What a great story! I love your bags!

April 24, 2009 at 8:37 a.m. Navare

Yet another inspiring story to keep me going! Thanks!

April 24, 2009 at 1:47 p.m. madyannabella

Truly inspiring! Best of luck to you and your store!

April 24, 2009 at 5:54 p.m. decadanceminis

Beautiful bags!! Wish I could quit MY day job!! :)

April 24, 2009 at 9 p.m. BlackbirdStudio

What an encouraging and inspiring story! Thanks for sharing your tips! Hope your Etsy shop continues to grow :)

April 25, 2009 at 7:45 p.m. TiKiGiTreasures

great article. Don't be shy about asking your local SCORE office to help you! (Senior Core of Retired Executives).

April 25, 2009 at 9:41 p.m. thesoybox

What a great story it's very inspiring! Your bags are wonderful, good luck to you!

April 26, 2009 at 8:01 p.m. LainieRoseDesigns

I love your story. Congratulations on your success!!!

April 28, 2009 at 10:50 a.m. blinkonmynose

Congrats. You make beautiful bags!

May 2, 2009 at 10:19 p.m. hazelandhunter

so inspiring! yay for doing what you love!

May 5, 2009 at 4:38 p.m. MissKArt

Very inspirational story! I am trying to get out of a full time day job that I can't stand and plunge into my own art selling business. I am a new seller since the beginning of April. I hope to soon be as successfull as u have become. I wish u great luck with your crafting endeavors. U go girl!

June 3, 2009 at 10:55 a.m. lzubal01

Very inspiring! Thank you! I am trying to take this full time and am just starting out.

June 22, 2009 at 3:31 p.m. NkemEgwuenu

Ohh My goodness! You are so talented, and such an inspiration. I just visited your blog and noticed you are from Toronto!. I realized it cause you posted about the MMVAS!. I'm starting my own business and think etsy is awesome! Good luck and congratulations!

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