Etsy's Handmade Blog
Quit Your Day Job: dazeychic

Shelli has been successfully supporting herself through her Etsy business, dazeychic, after diving in head first.  She runs a tight ship and puts in long hours, all the while caring for her son, Brayden.  Shelli is just now learning how to balance and manage her time to keep from working 24/7, claims one of her best Etsy strategies is relisting all of the items in her shop daily, and wishes she had paid a tad more attention in math rather than doodling during class.  Keep reading to get a peek into the life of Shelli and the story behind dazeychic.


How did you originally get into the business of making things?
My lovely mom, neysasart, passed on her creative gene to me (thanks, Mom!) and encouraged me to explore every avenue in which I showed an interest. As silly as it sounds, I always loved to doodle and it often got me into trouble during school. I would make classmates cards with funny people on them, and I would write my teachers notes in the margins using bubble letters. I hated math and I LOVED art class. It was the only thing that ever felt just right.

I owe my humble digital illustration beginnings to the invention of blogs and Valentine's Day. My boyfriend at the time, who is now my partner-in-crime and Etsy-guru husband, surprised me one Valentine's Day with a little software program called Paint Shop Pro. Nothing fancy. I dove in that night and never looked back. I took a few online tutorial classes to teach me the basics and started posting my creations on my blog. I started getting requests for custom work almost instantly. It was amazing. It was the first time I was doing what I loved... but it certainly was not full-time.

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Absolutely not. The very idea seemed dreamy and very very far away! At that time I still believed I was going to be a famous author like Carrie Bradshaw.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
I should probably say "yes" here... but I'm creative and not at all logical. I had the basics, but anything beyond that? Nothing. I learn best by jumping in and "doing" so that's exactly what I did. Finances and taxes have been the hardest so far...which is ironic. I guess I should have paid attention in math!

What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
Blog, a lot. Blog about yourself. Your life. Your goals. Your fears. Everything. People want to know you, not just read about your new work. Connecting with your fan base is the best promotion there is! I honestly get this question quite frequently in Convos. I always tell people the same thing. Put out a great product, something you are proud of and would buy yourself. A happy client/customer/shopper will ALWAYS tell someone else. Always. That's free promotion that you can feel crazy-good about. And a freebie in the package — with your shop's address — is always a plus!

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
I may be in the minority here, but I truly believe that there is no such thing as unsuccessful promotion! Anytime you put your name out there is brave and rewarding. Someone, somewhere will look at your work. Just yesterday I Googled a business name I saw on the bulletin board in my local coffee shop. You just never know... so do it all! What have you got to lose? Well, now that I said that... don't go crazy. Be true to your business and stay within your means. Obviously larger magazines are ridiculously expensive and most of us cannot afford that unless pairing with Etsy and their fantastic Cooperative Advertising Program! Do not break the bank to promote yourself because there are never any guarantees. Unfortunately.

Walk us through your typical workday.

  • 7 a.m. - 8 a.m.: I wake up to the sound of my little man (2.5 year-old Brayden) singing "Money money must be funny in a rich man's world!" from the Mamma Mia soundtrack. He sings it as loud as he can which is pretty much the best alarm clock ever.

  • 8:45 a.m.: I get Brayden a bowl of cereal and set him up in front of Nick Jr. to watch junk TV for an hour so I can get things done. However, anyone with a child over 2 knows that they do not do what you want... so he usually follows me into the studio to play with his cars while I check email and answer urgent messages. I begin to print orders and address shipping labels. I do this all by hand because it feels more personal to write address labels rather than printing them.

  • 9:30 a.m.: I have my daily conference call with my best friend (my mom)... who lives a mile away. We talk about anything and everything. She keeps me sane. 

  • I relist everything in my Etsy shop periodically throughout the day. One of my smartest investments was getting the internet on my mobile phone which allows me to relist or answer emails from anywhere.

  • 10:30 a.m.: Brayden and I get dressed. Or rather, I get him dressed and I *try* to get dressed while he is under my feet showing me the big engine on his Hot Wheel car. He is often found shooting cars off of Mommy and Daddy's big bed right about now. I, thank goodness, get ten minutes to brush my teeth, flat iron my hair, apply a bit of makeup and find some flip flops.

  • 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.: This is officially Brayden & Mommy time. The business hat comes off and I focus on him. We take little trips to the store to do errands. We go to the library and play with the train set in the far back corner that no one else knows about. We giggle about silly things and make up songs. We build forts and meet Grandma for lunch. We go to the park or go for a walk. Every day is different. Every day I realize more and more how lucky I am to have quit working a day job and how it is making a direct impact on who my son is going to be. It's just such a gift.

  • 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.: This is when I jump into high gear. Brayden is usually taking a nap or my incredible family (whom I could not live without) takes him off my hands for a bit. I finish printing, I sign and number each print, I bag them in pristine plastic sleeves, I stuff envelopes with promo goodies and rush to get to the post office before it closes.

  • 4:45 p.m.: After chatting with the adorable ladies at the post office (who know me by heart and know the entire drill without question), Brayden and I usually stop at Starbucks for a pick-me-up. I need my Vanilla Latte and he needs his Blackberry Scone.

  • 5:30 p.m.: My AMAZING husband comes home from his day job and plays with Brayden. I always joke with him and say "The title of Mom ends at 6 p.m." and it's true. Ben feeds him and gets Brayden into bed by 7:30 p.m. while I work on new things in the studio and print more orders.

  • 7 p.m. - 10 p.m.: Ben and I watch TV and eat dinner together. It's the only time during the day I sit down with him and I LOVE it. I'm a huge movie-and-popcorn kinda girl so it's no surprise that this is what I do to relax and unwind.

  • 10 p.m. - 1 a.m.: It's back up to the studio to work. I work best at night when it's quiet and peaceful. I get the most done during these hours. I order supplies and sketch new designs... this is my favorite time of day.

  • 1 a.m.: Bedtime. I read for a bit and fall asleep dreaming of a vacation in Mexico or Paris!

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
What I enjoy most is not having a boss! Not that I ever had particularly difficult or nasty bosses in the past... it's just such a freeing moment when you look around you and go WOW! I HAVE NO ONE TO ANSWER TO! You do things the way you want... when you want. There is nothing better than that. Although, I have to admit answering email in your pajamas is equally lovely! I am like every other work-at-home. I miss people. Interacting with coworkers, the chatting and constant friends. It's the toughest part! If I didn't have Facebook and email, I would be miserable... it's my connection to the outside world.

What's the hardest part about running your own business?
The hardest part is turning it off. I'm always thinking about it. I'm always worried about something. It just doesn't go away. There is not a time-clock telling me to go home so I tend to work 24/7 even if I'm not in front of the computer or over a canvas. It's a constant job owning your own business; I was not prepared for that at all. I'm getting better at it, though!

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
My advice for others is to not put pressure on yourself or your Etsy shop. Don't put expectations so high that you can't reach. Do it because you cannot imagine doing anything else.  As for advice I would have given myself? "Pay attention in math class, Shelli! Believe it or not you really are going to use it someday!"

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I sincerely want to continue to make people smile! I really cannot ask for much more. A little secret? I am working on wall decals that are large scale prints which I hope to have available soon. Very cute!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
To anyone who has purchased something from me, THANK YOU. I don't think you know how much you each mean to me. I sometimes wish I could find you all and give you a giant hug! And it's not just me really, I mean, when you purchase something on Etsy you are honoring and supporting a real person. A REAL PERSON. Not a big giant money hungry company. That's just amazing and oh-so-refreshing!

To Etsy, you own my whole heart for what you have done for me. And for those of you behind the scenes keeping this place tip-top and running smooth... I'd kiss you if I could.

Thanks to Shelli for sharing her story.  You can see some of her product line in the related items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.

Tags business, Dazeychic, full-time, neysasart, Quit Your Day Job, sellers, selling, Spotlight, WAHM, Work at Home Moms, workflow, working
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201 comments     Login to add your own!

July 6, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. BluLima

Awesome story! Such an inspirtion:)

July 6, 2009 at 3:06 p.m. BluLima

Inspiration-ooops!!

July 6, 2009 at 3:07 p.m. satellitedaisy

i love any etsy shop with daisy in any form in the name!
thanks for sharing your story! wishing you continued success!

July 6, 2009 at 3:09 p.m. odiliafu

Very inspiring story!! Love your work! We all need some encouragement.
Cheers,
Odilia

July 6, 2009 at 3:12 p.m. foamywader

Great stuff!

July 6, 2009 at 3:14 p.m. amber84

Nice stuff. :)

July 6, 2009 at 3:15 p.m. minouette

Nice story! I enjoy her work - particularly the text.

I wonder though, since re-listing no longer gets time on the front page, is this still a useful strategy?

July 6, 2009 at 3:16 p.m. SewnNatural

thank you so much for this - so happy for you and appreciate your sharing your story... yay!

July 6, 2009 at 3:17 p.m. helenaemmans

Great work and thank you for the encouragement!

July 6, 2009 at 3:23 p.m. CarolineCreates

Thank you for sharing your story and I love the designs!

July 6, 2009 at 3:25 p.m. littlealouette

Oh She is a real doll! I just did an interview with her for Scoutie Girl! I love her! swoon! xoxoox

July 6, 2009 at 3:25 p.m. mojarock

Very cool...Thanx! I needed a good, happy & inspirational story today. Love your work.

July 6, 2009 at 3:27 p.m. juicychristians

AwWsOMe!!!!! You are totally one of my favorite artists on Etsy!!!!! I am so happy for you and LOVE your work! I wish you continued success Lady!!!!!!

July 6, 2009 at 3:28 p.m. amoronia

I loved this!!

July 6, 2009 at 3:32 p.m. cravejewelrydesign

Such an insightful interview! I love your work! Congrats on enjoying life to the fullest!

July 6, 2009 at 3:38 p.m. PhineasandLou

I love this story! Congrats on quitting your day job and thanks for sharing such positive energy!!

July 6, 2009 at 3:41 p.m. uncharted

very inspiring, thanks!

July 6, 2009 at 3:43 p.m. kidacollective

Congratulations on your success. I love your shop... the bird with a french fry piece makes me smile every time I see it featured somewhere. :)

July 6, 2009 at 3:43 p.m. theturniptruck

Great story!! So inspirational...Love it!! Your work is amazing.

July 6, 2009 at 3:44 p.m. ccampbell0509

Oh I really enjoyed reading this. Awesome. Congrats to you. I wish you continued success.

July 6, 2009 at 3:45 p.m. Squintbags

Love the artwork! Sounds like you're living your dream. Congrats!

July 6, 2009 at 3:45 p.m. jclange

So inspiring and your work is awesome!

July 6, 2009 at 3:46 p.m. enduringarts

Love it! Great story and good work Shelli!

July 6, 2009 at 3:50 p.m. VintageZen

Sounds like a very fulfilling life. Inspiring.

July 6, 2009 at 3:54 p.m. beccamari

I LOVE your stuff!!! Thanks for sharing your story-

July 6, 2009 at 3:56 p.m. JessicaDoyle

What a beautiful interview Etsy and daizychic your artwork, words and story are inspiring!

Cheers!

July 6, 2009 at 3:57 p.m. thebestvintage

Great story!!

July 6, 2009 at 4:07 p.m. tigersanddragons

Always great to read about another etsy success. Beautiful work.

July 6, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. ArtBoxDesigns

Lovely Art... I want to be you!

July 6, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. elisasherejewelry

I super love this story. I'm so impressed with how neat Daizy's work area is and with the work itself. Thanks for sharing your story!

July 6, 2009 at 4:08 p.m. FancifulForm

Congrats!!! ^.^

July 6, 2009 at 4:09 p.m. PipocaHandmade

Wonderful story...wonderful artwork! Continued success!

July 6, 2009 at 4:10 p.m. PonderandStitch

Wonderful story and workspace!! You have a beautiful shop. :)

July 6, 2009 at 4:15 p.m. Jessica79

Love her work, I have 2 pieces that I adore!

July 6, 2009 at 4:16 p.m. moncy3

Beautiful story! Congratulations...

July 6, 2009 at 4:18 p.m. jessicaschuler

Brayden is absolutely adorable and this story is a great inspiration! Congrats Shelli!

July 6, 2009 at 4:22 p.m. Vintage50sEyewear

Love your work. Great story :)

July 6, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. shantishanty

lovely, tidy shop. these are always an inspiration...and what an amazing lil man!

July 6, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. moonovermaize

Love your story and Brayden is such a cutie!

July 6, 2009 at 4:24 p.m. TheFancyLamb

Yet another QYDJ story that warms my cockles! Love these inspiring stories!

July 6, 2009 at 4:24 p.m. roxiejewelry

Thank you for sharing your story, I appreciate the inspiration!

July 6, 2009 at 4:25 p.m. BirdhouseBlessings

I think the best message that came from this article for me was, don't be afraid to put yourself out there.
Thank you!

July 6, 2009 at 4:26 p.m. postroadvintage

Great to hear what its like for other moms getting to stay at home and love on their children while also taking part in this awesome Etsy experience! Congrats on your success- wish you all the best!

July 6, 2009 at 4:26 p.m. aimeesarmoire

Congratulations! (and, umm, I'd better get my studio/storage spaces straightened out right-quick... serious case of clutter overload going on!!!)

July 6, 2009 at 4:27 p.m. sweetsmilesbaby

Such a cheery studio and artwork and your little boy is so cute!

July 6, 2009 at 4:29 p.m. papercutdiecut

LOVELY!

July 6, 2009 at 4:30 p.m. lesjoujou

Loved this article! Your little boy is so precious. I totally agree about every single person that buys from you. I wish I could gather them all up into a great big hug too.

July 6, 2009 at 4:31 p.m. faraharia

what an inspirational story! I love reading about other moms who have balanced raising a child and working on their art succesfully!

July 6, 2009 at 4:33 p.m. steinschmuckdesign

Beautiful Story, congrats!

July 6, 2009 at 4:34 p.m. voleurdebijoux

Congrats, Shelli! I lovelove your studio space...it is so sweet and organized. :)

July 6, 2009 at 4:36 p.m. SaraBJewelry

what a lovely and inspiring story! i purchased one of Shelli's prints a month or two ago and i just love it! it is so great to read this story and it gives me great hope for my own future :) thank you!

July 6, 2009 at 4:37 p.m. Lindazkewl

Ohmygosh! This article brought me to tears. What a beautiful life. There is hope. So happy for you and thanks for sharing.

July 6, 2009 at 4:56 p.m. wristielove

I have to forward this to my mom.

July 6, 2009 at 5:19 p.m. beautifulbridget

So inspirational!!

July 6, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. Weezawear

This is the best quit your dayjob article yet. What a sweetie.

July 6, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. Firelily

Fantastic article. Congratulations! Your son is adorable and I love your schedule! Mine is quite similar :)

July 6, 2009 at 5:36 p.m. walkthetalk

Great story! Thank you for sharing your advice and congrats with your business and best to you and your little man.

July 6, 2009 at 5:38 p.m. stubborndog

Wonderful article. I love seeing your bird with frenchfry print whenever I walk through our apartment door. :-) Congratulations on all of your success! Inspiring studio!

July 6, 2009 at 5:55 p.m. monkeyandsquirrel

lovely lovely lovely!!! brings big smiles :)

July 6, 2009 at 6:06 p.m. PAINTINGSBYSAM

Great Article. & I LOVE the artwork!

July 6, 2009 at 6:14 p.m. StoriesinStitches

I LOVE your artwork-- good luck with everything, including keeping up with your little one!

July 6, 2009 at 6:23 p.m. GimCarry

lovely story (* v *)
her works also lovely :D
so happy when read this story + + +

July 6, 2009 at 6:25 p.m. YuzuRose

I am in the process of setting up my first ever store on Etsy! This article is both inspiring and insightful, thanks so much for sharing!

P.S. Really nice work!

xx

July 6, 2009 at 6:26 p.m. vivilian

such a lovely creation!!
congrats on everything

http://www.vivilian.etsy.com

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   \︿︿/ ︺︺︺\●/

July 6, 2009 at 6:28 p.m. polarity

ooh I love this artist and this interview! and someone who doesn't get up at 10am, thank goodness, although that is just my jealous nature speaking! extra points for the adorable baby, too!

July 6, 2009 at 6:41 p.m. zeropumpkin

:D my fav shop :) so cool

July 6, 2009 at 6:43 p.m. HarrietsHaven

congrats to you. you seem to be a very wonderful, deserving person. i wish only the best :)
p.s. i need to follow your daily routine.....2 kids make it a little difficult to find time to craft!!!

July 6, 2009 at 6:45 p.m. BeadinBabe

Such an inspiration!!! I love it, I love the schedule, I need one of those :)

July 6, 2009 at 6:53 p.m. mayaruhi

SO sweet! Brayden's looks like the happiest Little Man! I am sure it's actually tougher than it all sounds here... good on you, Shelli! My routine is pretty much like yours, with 2 little girls. And I am still learning to make my weekends Etsy-free... ;)

July 6, 2009 at 6:54 p.m. theDearestBird

fabulous story!! i remember the first time i saw your work, i was so inspired!! (:

July 6, 2009 at 6:58 p.m. PixelWildChild

DazeyChic was one of my favourite shops since I discovered Etsy, so nice to read her interview now!

July 6, 2009 at 7:05 p.m. yaelfran

i just adore your shop!!!!!!!

July 6, 2009 at 7:05 p.m. shoshanna2003

Beautifu story. I will definately take the advice for my own etsy clothing store.
thanks xoxo

July 6, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. fuzzibax

Me too Math class? what was that? An annoying stop on my way to French! Pam

July 6, 2009 at 7:21 p.m. FluteTeacher

Great interview! I loved reading this.

July 6, 2009 at 7:22 p.m. Neysasart

...I am so proud of you and all that you have accomplished...and are continuing to accomplish...but mostly for...My little Pookie and your continued love and friendship!

Way to to Shells!

July 6, 2009 at 7:51 p.m. GranGrahamsTable

A lovely story.Keep up the great work.

July 6, 2009 at 7:59 p.m. invitesbyjen

Way to go.....what an inspiring story and I love how much time you get to spend with your son, I am sure you feel blessed!!

I hope Mary doesn't mind this self-promotion, but I started a similar series on my blog (with Mary's permission of course as it was definitely a CASE'd idea/set-up)....if anyone is interested in reading visit http://www.invitesbyjen.blogspot.com and click on the "My Own Nine to Five" Category on the right =)

July 6, 2009 at 8 p.m. PawPawsWorkshop

Great article

July 6, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. DeBonisOrquera

Soooo lovely!

July 6, 2009 at 8:08 p.m. asundrynotion

Congrats, dazeychic! Keep growing!

July 6, 2009 at 8:10 p.m. AnniesWearableArt

I love seeing artists who started their craft very early in life reaping those rewards after so many years of struggle. Wonderful story!

July 6, 2009 at 8:13 p.m. happymaxdesigns

Very inspiring! And great advice. I think Etsy makes a lot of moms happy! Congrats on your success!

July 6, 2009 at 8:15 p.m. veronica06

Thanks for the story. Very inspiring.

July 6, 2009 at 8:20 p.m. SusanKJewelry

how lovely Thanks for sharing!

July 6, 2009 at 8:33 p.m. baconsquarefarm

Wonderful~wonderful story, always admired your shop as well, congrats and continued success. Yea Minnesota~!

July 6, 2009 at 8:38 p.m. TrishAns

I love reading these, it makes me hopeful to someday quit my day job!

July 6, 2009 at 9:10 p.m. ParisBoutique

love your story!!

July 6, 2009 at 9:30 p.m. StitchinStyle

Shelli, your story is so inspiring, and I did the math which is even more inspiring. All I can say is "You Go Girl".

July 6, 2009 at 9:32 p.m. AchAchLiebling

This is such a sweet interview. Shelli, thanks for sharing your enthusiasm, insight and a peek into your life.

July 6, 2009 at 9:36 p.m. oldschooltrading

Inspiring story! You are very talented!

July 6, 2009 at 9:51 p.m. VixVintage

You and your artwork are just adorable (little man too)! I honestly don't think after being a part of the Etsy family that I will ever shop anywhere else.

July 6, 2009 at 10:57 p.m. pradomarin

wonderful story! I love your illustrations Shelli!! I can totally relate to loving art class and being terrible at maths!!

July 6, 2009 at 11:01 p.m. Palooza

Inspiring! Your artwork is beautiful!

July 6, 2009 at 11:25 p.m. tinyspace

i love to be one someday!

July 6, 2009 at 11:31 p.m. shopgoodgrace

Lovely, lovely article from a seller I've had "hearted" forever. Such adorable, original pieces!!

July 6, 2009 at 11:42 p.m. Artsy

Great interview and stellar art..

July 7, 2009 at 12:10 a.m. NanLawson

i love this shop! a great example of success on etsy!

July 7, 2009 at 12:36 a.m. OhFaro

So sweet! I love your happy faces. Looks delightful.

July 7, 2009 at 12:50 a.m. TheCozyFarmhouse

I am in LOVE with this article! Great visuals and information and inspiration! Such talent and beauty...

July 7, 2009 at 1 a.m. blithegardens

What a great article. Always love these - very inspiring.

July 7, 2009 at 1:02 a.m. PomLove

Shelli- thank you so much for sharing all of that! Our days are so similar! And you're totally right, the constant worry/thinking about work doesn't end! I guess it's a balance, but if you love what you do then it's worth it. You're inspiring!

July 7, 2009 at 2:22 a.m. thingsthataremade

Wonderful story! I feel like I just finished a really good book :)

July 7, 2009 at 2:24 a.m. coventgardenvintage

So fun to see who is behind all of the great work I keep seeing in the sold column. Continued success!

July 7, 2009 at 2:43 a.m. NatashaBlue

what an inspirational story!! Keep up the amazing artwork!

July 7, 2009 at 3:15 a.m. Beadsforpeace

Shelli! you look like Renee Zellweger in that photo! So pretty!

July 7, 2009 at 3:15 a.m. Iammie

Lovely shop and story!

July 7, 2009 at 3:33 a.m. bittybambu

Your work is beautiful. Your little Man is also super cheek-pinching cute! Thanks for the inspiration.

July 7, 2009 at 3:34 a.m. ChristopherBoswell

Wow, nice job! Love your stuff and the article.

July 7, 2009 at 4:38 a.m. evihan

woww..great work....congratulations...

July 7, 2009 at 7:18 a.m. eviemdesignstudio

I love your shop! What an inspiring story and thank you for sharing. Congratulations on your success!

July 7, 2009 at 7:31 a.m. goosegrease

you're quite inspirational in more ways than one! thanks for sharing with us!!

July 7, 2009 at 8:11 a.m. lovelygifts

Great story! Congrats!

July 7, 2009 at 9:02 a.m. notmoira

Great story, congrats! My sister got me the "Today I will be happier than a bird with a french fry" print, and I love it!

July 7, 2009 at 9:11 a.m. MessyJesse

such lovely inspiration :) thanks for sharing ...

July 7, 2009 at 9:13 a.m. florriemitton

I L O V E this story so much! What an inspiration!

July 7, 2009 at 9:21 a.m. ArtisticSavvy

Wow. Her story has been my favorite Quit Your Day Job story yet! What an inspiration!

July 7, 2009 at 9:32 a.m. JAdamsDesigns

Great story! What an inspiration! Not to mention your work is so fresh and happy looking, I just love it!!
Though I was wondering this before and now even more since I read this, does a re-listed item show up on the front page after being re-listed?

July 7, 2009 at 9:32 a.m. whichgoose

I am happier than a bird with TWO french fries for you :)

July 7, 2009 at 9:33 a.m. PixiTogs

Great story! I can relate to soo much you wrote about

July 7, 2009 at 9:36 a.m. SimpleJoysPaperie

Such an inspiring story... and a cutie pie little man!

July 7, 2009 at 9:40 a.m. punkybunny300

dazeychic is the first shop I ever bought from here on Etsy (and I absolutely love everything I've ever purchased from her)!! I'm so happy that her wonderful story is featured!!!

July 7, 2009 at 9:59 a.m. thestapeliacompany

I love her work! Congrats on making it with your art!

July 7, 2009 at 10:27 a.m. leoandlibra

What a great story!!! Congrats & thank you.

July 7, 2009 at 10:56 a.m. ImJewelee

YAY love your story Shelli and love that you get to stay home with your little man!! I still run 24/7 and need to schedule for some time with my little girl who is growing up FAST....!!

Have fun and congrats too!

♥ Julee

July 7, 2009 at 11:11 a.m. embellishedlife

Nice shop but your best creation yet is that little man! Sooo cute :)

July 7, 2009 at 11:14 a.m. RetroHouse

Great example of dedication and balance - Thanks for sharing!

July 7, 2009 at 11:23 a.m. momochas

Beautiful and inspirational story. Thanks for sharing and Congrats!

July 7, 2009 at 11:30 a.m. pinpinn

My FAVORITE sign in your ENTIRE SHOP is "May I be as happy as a bird with a french fry" and I am totally going to buy it one day and put it in my studio ^_^

July 7, 2009 at 11:41 a.m. rkdsign88

Brayden is so cute. You follow your heart and what you belief plus you are a hard workers, all of above make you a success artist. Thank you so much for sharing.

July 7, 2009 at 11:51 a.m. CinnamonSass

So inspiring to see your schedule laid out and how you do it!

July 7, 2009 at 12:26 p.m. littlepinkpebble

congrats.. i love the quit your day jobs : )

July 7, 2009 at 12:31 p.m. mokopo

"Don't put expectations so high that you can't reach. Do it because you cannot imagine doing anything else."

Really struck a chord with me! Thanks for an inspiring article!

And P.S.- Your studio is GORGEOUS! I'm super jealous :)

July 7, 2009 at 12:36 p.m. Serpentaires

Thank you very much for the advice. I need to remember the part about not putting too much pressure on yourself. In three years I want to be just in your place :)

July 7, 2009 at 12:36 p.m. smushbox

very inspiring :) i just started with etsy yesterday so the words of encouragement mean a lot. it's hard to get your work out there!

July 7, 2009 at 1:18 p.m. FunFavors

Thank you for sharing this...very encouraging!!!...keep the good work!!

July 7, 2009 at 2:58 p.m. wearthou

What a day!! I want to quit my day job!!
Awesome article and great shop!!

July 7, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. oceano

Great interview! super inspirational and dazeychic's work is fabulous!

July 7, 2009 at 3:49 p.m. laurabrownart

woo, minneapolis represent!

July 7, 2009 at 4:07 p.m. carolinabythesea1

You have two prints that I want so badly....but alas, my husband lost his job a few weeks ago and even I can't rationalize putting out the $$ for them. Do you have a layaway system? LOL

Congratulations on your success and I hope it continues for as long as you want it to. You are truly gifted.

July 7, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. AgShap

Great success story. Gives me hope that I too one day will make this a growing business. Love etsy and am trying to find ways to get my business known. I too want to quit my day job!

July 7, 2009 at 6:01 p.m. junkyjunk

What an inspiration to all us moms! Thanks for showing us we can be parents and Etsians also!
Love your site, and best wishes to you.

July 7, 2009 at 6:02 p.m. billiegirl

Oh, I love your story Shellie. Such an inspiration.

July 7, 2009 at 6:03 p.m. lucky0girl0racer

Beautiful work, and I love your desk!

July 7, 2009 at 6:32 p.m. thehotcookie

I love your work! You have been a favorite of mine for awile now. Congrats on your success!

July 7, 2009 at 8:24 p.m. prettylittlethieves

thank you for sharing your sweet and inspiring story. congratulations!

July 7, 2009 at 8:34 p.m. RivasStudios

Thanks for sharing! Great pics to.

July 7, 2009 at 8:49 p.m. RabbitHoleArt

Thanks for the great story!

July 7, 2009 at 8:51 p.m. RabbitHoleArt

Love your Sweet Security print!

July 7, 2009 at 8:54 p.m. worksandfinds

Congratulation. Great shop.

July 7, 2009 at 9:09 p.m. indigotwin

Congrats on quitting your day job...and how do you keep your studio so clean with a little boy around? :) Great Stuff!

July 7, 2009 at 10:31 p.m. bellasparty

Great story! Beautiful studio.

July 7, 2009 at 11:22 p.m. gretchenmist

gorgeous photos ~ and a lovely read. thanks for sharing your story :)

July 7, 2009 at 11:32 p.m. hippopotamusgifts

Thanks so much for sharing the inspirational story! I hope to be like you someday, although I do already have the 2.5 year old boy running under my feet while I work. You have a really beautiful place to work and be creative.

July 8, 2009 at 12:34 a.m. coup

I loved reading about your day! I share many of your same feelings, as my one-woman design business is my day job ; ) gotta love it!

July 8, 2009 at 12:37 a.m. spethstation

Thanks for showcasing an artist who sells digital prints. I was beginning to worry that I'd never find myself featured here unless I switched to jewellery making. Glad to see success happens all across the artistic spectrum.

That said, I love your work, it's all quite cute and charming!

July 8, 2009 at 1:30 a.m. RoughGems

echoing very else, this is very awesome indeed. great article.

July 8, 2009 at 4:40 a.m. thedaydreamer

"I hated math and I LOVED art class."
That sounds like ME! Loved the article and my best wishes to Shelli. :-)

July 8, 2009 at 7:55 a.m. SweetPeaFabrications

Great story! Love your shop. Continued success to you!

July 8, 2009 at 8:07 a.m. elainebiss

What a fantastic article! It gives me hope!

July 8, 2009 at 8:35 a.m. beadmomsrockart

Thank You for sharing your wonderful story. It has given me hope that some day I my have a little of what you are doing. I am definately NOT a math person either, I only hope some day to need an accountant! Thank You, Marcia

July 8, 2009 at 8:54 a.m. missmacau

Great read, your table is so sweet and neat!!!

July 8, 2009 at 9:20 a.m. scrapsandjewels

Very inspiring story...I'm hoping to do the same with my etsy shop. I'm wondering about relisting...are you talking about items you've sold? How do you go about the process of relisting unsold items? Do you just start from scratch? I would think that would be really time-consuming. But I do notice the difference...I get plenty of hits on that first day and very little after that.

July 8, 2009 at 9:50 a.m. SimpleTraditions

Wow, awesome story! I love that you get to spend time with your little man! You sound like a great family, it's always nice to see a family work together to make things work. And I love your studo, it's no nice and bright. You make me want to give mine a nice new paint job!

July 8, 2009 at 9:56 a.m. blendastudio

Nothing better than to read someone's story to success. Congrats!

July 8, 2009 at 10:28 a.m. whiletangerinedreams

This is such a great interview and what an awesome, inspring studio! Cute, cute little boy too :)

July 8, 2009 at 10:41 a.m. TheKiwiBee

thanks for sharing! and I love your studio, it is so cute!

July 8, 2009 at 10:54 a.m. SweetwaterGifts

Nice interview! I suppose we all manage to have regrets of some kind. Myself, I took LOTS of math and it helps - but I didn't take ANYTHING art or crafts and I really wish I had given myself the opportunity to relax and explore while in school. I think I wouldn't have stressed myself out so early in life!

July 8, 2009 at 10:58 a.m. talchen

It made me so happy, reading your story. very sweet and inspiring.
Great art! keep doing what you're doing!
Good luck

July 8, 2009 at 12:27 p.m. LoveForEarth

I love your store! I'll come visit real soon :) Great energy and article!

July 8, 2009 at 12:32 p.m. chiclover

Great story and very inspiring. What a dream to be able to support yourself and family doing what you love. You go, girl! :)

July 8, 2009 at 12:32 p.m. tldgrainwear

BEATIFUL PRINTS! I love your shops...straight to favourites...! Congrats!

July 8, 2009 at 1:18 p.m. CylentAlchemy

Nice story. There's always someone else to do the math!

July 8, 2009 at 1:26 p.m. noelledoodle

AWESOME inspirational story. I end my "real" job this week and can't wait to be a full time etsyer!

July 8, 2009 at 3:21 p.m. lizjewelry

what a gorgeous boy!

July 8, 2009 at 3:28 p.m. GeorginaKay

Fantastic story - I wish you every success.

July 8, 2009 at 4:03 p.m. slumptown

Great story and a lovely shop. Wishing you continued success.

July 8, 2009 at 4:23 p.m. cowgirlheaven

I love this story..

July 8, 2009 at 6:03 p.m. dazeychic

Wow! I cannot thank you guys enough for all the love and smiles sent my way! :) What an amazing place this is...this thing we call Etsy...filled with talented and amazingly kind people like all of you!

I did want to pop in and correct myself as there have been many questions (and convos) as to what I meant by "re-listing" throughout the day. I mean "relist" sold items not "relist" items already in my shop.

However, if it is a particularly slow or super busy day on Etsy and you notice your item has little views it may not hurt to "renew" (not relist) that item to shoot it back to the front of your category for a bit! We all know how hard it is to keep items in view or towards the front pages of a category. But you must trust that your tags are good enough to get you noticed when someone is searching for your product.

Does that help explain the re-listing?

Thanks again everyone for the comments! I wish each of you continued success...and if your just starting out...have fun & keep pushing!

Hugs!!

xo shelli

July 8, 2009 at 6:25 p.m. ollywollies

Lovely and very inspirational! (such a tidy studio!)

July 8, 2009 at 9:41 p.m. artwithallie

Dazeychic - thanks for the rockin' inspiration!

July 8, 2009 at 11:31 p.m. art4friends

I have been a long time fan and that was AMAZINGLY wonderful to read.

Thank you. x

July 9, 2009 at 2:15 a.m. Jamfiescreations1

Thank you so much for the wonderful inspiration.
I will always remember your story. Thanks, Mary O

July 9, 2009 at 3:56 a.m. KahiliCreations

What a fun read! Shelli-will you come to Hawaii and make my studio as neat and pretty as yours???

July 9, 2009 at 10:46 a.m. ohmystarsink

Super sweet! I love your daily schedule...mine is a very scattered version of that having 2 kids, but at the end of the day, it's wonderful to get the best of both worlds!!

July 9, 2009 at 5:10 p.m. LoverlyMiss

Seriously, thank you for sharing!

July 9, 2009 at 7:35 p.m. TheExtentofSilence

I always love these articles. It's so inspiring to read about people who are successful. Thank you for sharing!

July 9, 2009 at 7:43 p.m. minnielola

I love your story! Now I'm off to check out your shop :)

July 9, 2009 at 8:43 p.m. MiasMunchies

Lovely! Love your pretty little organized desk as well!!!

July 10, 2009 at 12:40 a.m. AzitasSurprises

great story! thanks for sharing.

July 10, 2009 at 9:13 a.m. DeNovoStyle

Dazeychic was the first one I hearted when I was brand new!

July 11, 2009 at 2:43 p.m. seasonsart

Great story I AM having a hard time gettting going any advice????

July 12, 2009 at 3:19 a.m. MissKArt

U go girl! Do ur thang!!!

July 12, 2009 at 2:04 p.m. jennifermagnesi

Great article! I absolutely love your shop! Congrats on your success!

July 12, 2009 at 11:32 p.m. AJSnow

I love her story and you seem to balance mom time and crafter time very well.

July 15, 2009 at 3:22 a.m. denimee

Indeed, it is a gift. Congrats and go high with your gift.

July 18, 2009 at 8:20 p.m. KSWCreations

I didn't really know about the relisting. Do you jsut edit and finish it again and it reappears like it was just listed?

July 20, 2009 at 8:29 p.m. Toxicguineapigs

I've always loved her stuff. I dream of this being me one of these days. :)

Aug. 8, 2009 at 1:45 p.m. whimsicalwitch

Beautiful Story!

Aug. 10, 2009 at 10:50 p.m. SimplyBiana

Very inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing! I wish you all the best!!! :)

Aug. 14, 2009 at 9:29 a.m. treefolkstudio

Oh my!
~I wish I'd thought of Etsy when my son Braedon (now 6)was Brayden's age! Instead I spent too much money setting up a website w/merchant services (and contract, yuk)and really never was able to focus on the creative aspect which makes all of us tick! You are such an inspiration to me. I can relate to your work, your schedule, and the amazing supportive husband.
I just started facebook and I think it'll be good for me.
Thanks for sharing your awesome and original creations, as well as your story!
Best wishes and warm regards,
Lenith
Treefolk Studios

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