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Quit Your Day Job: laralewis
Story by laralewis, marymary
Published on October 12, 2009 in Spotlight 		Photo by

laralewis

Lara of laralewis has been able to successfully quit her day job in the teaching field and move her family closer to her hometown as a result of her Etsy success. Lara swears by a daily list of goals and was able to make quitting her day job a reality by planning ahead and making life changes that contributed toward her dream. Today Laura provides some of the most practical, useful and detailed tips for running a successful business that I've ever come across in the Quit Your Day Job series; you're in for a treat!

How did you originally get into the business of making things?
I have such busy hands that I am always making or creating something. It wasn’t until just recently that I thought I could actually make a business out of it!

When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
No, not at first, but I have dreamed for a long time of moving back to my parents’ hometown to be closer to my family. With teaching jobs becoming scarce and the economy being what it is, I didn’t think it was possible to be able to afford to quit my job and relocate. However, that was about three months before we actually did! Once we made the decision, things happened pretty fast.

Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
Yes! Here are the nitty-gritty details; I hope I didn’t forget anything!

  • My fiancé, Jesse, and I reevaluated our monthly budget and started to utilize Quicken to manage our finances. This made a huge difference when we realized where our money was going, and we stopped doing things like eating out and all those other little extra things that add up.
  • After we looked at our budget, I figured out how much I would need to make if I was actually going to quit my day job. Then I added in the expenses needed for us to move and cut out the money we’d be saving from me working at home instead of driving to work every day. This gave us a goal to work towards.
  • I buckled down and worked extra hard in order to pay off debt that I owed. This is really important, because there will always be slow periods. You don't want those extra bills hanging over your head.
  • I met with an accountant to make sure there wouldn’t be any nasty surprises at tax time. He also helped me keep track of expenses that I didn’t realize were tax deductible!
  • While I still had my steady income, I stocked up as much as possible on supplies.
  • Right before our move, we traded in both of our cars for one smaller and more economical vehicle. I called our car insurance company and lowered our rate based on our only having one car, and it being driven so much less.
  • We still clip coupons like maniacs and plan meals in advance. You’d be surprised how much money the Sunday paper coupons save.
  • We’re much thriftier shoppers. If we can fix something rather than buy another, we do, and if we need something, we always hit up places like Salvation Army before going to the retail stores.


What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
Most importantly I feel it’s crucial to stay visible, and these are the three main ways you can do this:

Take great pictures of your products and you will inevitably be featured in Treasuries, homepage collections and The Storque. Also, fans will blog, Tweet, and Facebook about you like crazy. I use an “old” digital camera and I don’t own a tripod, so I can tell you with certainty that you don't need anything fancy to do this. Here are some tips I have learned that have helped me:

  • Photograph in natural light and turn off the flash.
  • Find the sunniest location in your home to set up your shots.
  • Only shoot in filtered sunlight, because otherwise the shadows are too harsh. If you need to, stretch a piece of tracing paper over your window where the sun streams in.
  • Take a piece of cardboard and wrap it in aluminum foil. Use it to reflect light onto your subject.
  • Don't go too crazy with your backgrounds, but definitely choose something that tells the story of what you are trying to sell. When in doubt, go neutral.
  • Set your camera on macro and after your camera focuses, pull back just a smidge before you take the picture. Take several shots and use various angles.
  • Set up your pictures knowing that you might want to crop them to a perfect square to look best in your thumbnails. Pick your best one as your "money shot!"

Frequently Add New Items/Renew

  • I have found that customers will regularly “check in” on your shop to see what you’ve been up to. Keep your store fresh, and your customers interested, by regularly adding new items.
  • Facebook Connect is a great new feature! I also Tweet and blog about items I am excited about and explain a little more about the impetus behind them.
  • Renew items that might be in a category that is broad and/or trendy. I know this is highly debatable, but I don't think there is a perfect time of day to list or renew items. Just try to be consistent.

Provide Excellent Customer Service

  • Customers who are happy with their purchases will tell their friends and family, blog about you, include you in their Treasuries, etc.
  • Treat customers how you would want to be treated. It’s the golden rule! Provide quick responses to their queries, ship as quickly as possible, use beautiful packaging, and include a little thank you note. Make each and every one of them feel special, because they truly are!

What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
I honestly feel that if something brings in just one new customer or brings a little more attention to my store, it was a successful promotion. However, what works for some, might not work for you...so do what you feel most comfortable with!

Walk us through your typical workday.

  • I’m up before the birds to say goodbye to Jesse as he heads off for work and to get our teenage daughter ready for school. After they leave, I sit down with a cup of coffee and check for messages, print receipts, and make a daily goals list. If I don’t make lists, nothing will get done because I am so easily distracted.
  • Usually the mornings are spent creating new items and listing them in my shop, while jotting down lists of supplies I need to reorder. I email back and forth with my mom a lot because she also works from home.
  • Around lunchtime I practically attack the poor mailman when he arrives to see if I have received any new supplies. Then I continue to make and list new items. Because I can multitask like a pro, I am also doing laundry, answering emails, blogging, Tweeting, sketching new designs, and squeezing in food and drink somewhere in there.
  • By mid-afternoon, I start packaging any sold items to go out in the late afternoon mail run. I also start thinking about dinner because when my daughter comes home, she is like a hungry Velociraptor and there had better be food ready.
  • Jesse prints out my shipping labels, puts them in their envelopes, and delivers them to the post office. He’s the best! Then we all sit down to dinner, go over homework, talk about our day, and they patiently listen to me blah, blah, blah about my business.
  • After that, Jesse goes to work on his college classes, and my daughter and I spend time being silly together. If it’s not too late, we will take long walks on the trails surrounding our home, and being the nerd that I am, I love taking pictures of the various trees and wildflowers we see.
  • After that, I’m back in the studio stocking up on inventory, ordering supplies, working on new designs, answering emails, etc. until around 11 p.m. when Jesse drags me back out and tells me it’s time for bed!

What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
What do I enjoy most? Where do I start?! Being “forced” to simplify, we have actually found that our lives are greatly enriched. Now that I am working from home, and not driving 100 miles a day to get to work, I can spend more time with my family. Now that we've moved closer to my grandparents, I love that I can be there when they need me. Also, fellow teachers will appreciate that I now don’t have to wait until planning or lunch to go to the bathroom! I do miss my friends with whom I was lucky enough to work and I truly miss my students. I am so proud to have once been part of the teaching profession and have the greatest respect for those who make it their life work.

What's the hardest part about running your own business?
You can’t walk away from it! I think about what I can do to improve constantly, and I’m a really tough boss. Also, with working from home, it’s hard to not get distracted by things like the dishes in the sink and other housework to be done. It can be really scary, too, knowing that I am the only one responsible for my success. Yikes!

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

  • Take a class with your local Small Business Development Center early on. It’s free and they provide excellent advice.
  • Get organized right from the start with an excellent filing system and create a spreadsheet to track sales and taxes.
  • Plan ahead by organizing a studio and shipping area that can handle the workload of a bigger business. If you’re not there now, you will be eventually, and you will save yourself the trouble of having to rearrange by starting big!
  • Google your business name from time to time and see what comes up! Use Google Analytics to see how traffic is being directed to your page, and upload shop content to Google Base. Buy a domain name for your shop even if you don’t plan on using it yet; along the same lines, establish an account with the major social networking sites, so someone else doesn’t grab your name first.
  • Try not to compare yourself to others, it will just make you feel bad and prevent you from developing your own style. Most importantly: Don’t give up!

What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I have been working on some new illustrations, and I hope to open another shop soon to offer paper goods and prints of my artwork. (*Cross fingers*)

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
My most heartfelt thanks to Etsy, my customers, my family, and friends who have all been so supportive. Without all of you, I wouldn’t even be in this position to share this story, and I only hope I can pay it forward to help someone else!

Thanks to Lara for sharing her story. Have your own questions to ask? Come on by and chat with her Wednesday, October 14 at 5 p.m. ET in Etsy's Virtual Labs. 

You can see some of Lara's beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.

Tags business tips, Etsy Success, full-time, jewelry, laralewis, marketing tips, PA, photography, photography tips, Quit Your Day Job, sellers, selling, Spotlight, SPOTLIGHT, state college, workflow, working
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403 comments     Login to add your own!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:38 p.m. cassidycay

Thanks for letting us peek into your studio! Love the honey bee earings!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:39 p.m. MelroseFields

Wonderful shop..love the Vanessa earrings

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. jenniferdarezzo

Beautiful items and great inspiration. Very cool!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:40 p.m. lv2cr8

Thanks for sharing with us. You do lovely work and it is easy to see why your product sells. I wish you continued success!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. vivikas

I love the "quit your day job" articles, lauren has an adorable shop! Congrats!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:42 p.m. Tias

...maybe one day I too will quit my day job and move closer to my home town...But I am super happy for you! very inspiring!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. ANORIGINALJEWELRY

Its always so fun to see other sellers who have quit their day job, like myself. Eventhough we are all so different, our days seem to flow fairly similarly! I REALLY need to be better about using my QuickBooks to its potential!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. Studio410

What a great article, lots of good advice and very inspirational.
Thanks very much.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. DalkullanJewelry

Congratulations on your wonderful success Lauren! Thanks for all the great tips, especially on photography, which is always to tough thing to get right, especially with jewelry.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. HMHdesign

What a wonderful life you have created. The world would be a better place if we all had that kind of balance of work, creativity and family. You are an inspiration.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:45 p.m. CLineCreations

That was such a lovely interview. Those Vanessa earrings are really stunning.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:45 p.m. MiniCyn

Love the hair pins in your shop!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:45 p.m. KIMMSMITH

Great story and gorgeous shop, Congratulations!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:45 p.m. choconaut

YAY!

I love her jewelry!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:46 p.m. WoodPigeon

Great shop! Congrats on making it work : )

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:48 p.m. TheVintageWaffle

Great article and you two do not look old enough to have a teenage daughter! I too have simplified and have decided to stay at a lower paying job because of some of the benefits-no weekends, holidays, nights, overnights, and time off when I need it! I would rather shop with coupons and have a job I enjoy then have more money and a job I hate!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:48 p.m. lealerjcreates

Thanks for sharing. Love these stories.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:50 p.m. thelittleprints

thanks so much for the great tips! i loved this story :)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. salvageshop

thanks for sharing your story and thanks for keeping us motivated!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:52 p.m. underoakstudios

Awesome! Great article. Thank you for sharing.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. rebija

Awesome info! Thanks for sharing so much with us.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. sunny4jenny

I know Lara personally...and she puts much thought and love into every one of her pieces. I am so thrilled that she was featured so others can learn about her too. So when you shop at her store, you will be pleased to know that the products you are getting come from a really great person! :-)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:56 p.m. BizzieLizzie

Awesome story!! Thanks so much for sharing!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 4:59 p.m. waysideviolet

yay lara!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:01 p.m. norajane

i love laralewis! yay!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:01 p.m. jlisiecki

Thank you for your inspiring words!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:01 p.m. ArtTales

Beautiful items :)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:01 p.m. queenofhearts914

um ya shes my mom and her name is lara

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:02 p.m. poppyswickedgarden

Great story! Isn't it wonderful to be able to support your family and do what you love!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:02 p.m. 2TrickPony

Congrats on your success, and I am super happy that you can go to the bathroom whenever you want now!
Love the owl ring.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:02 p.m. chainchainchained

yey! cute stuff!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:03 p.m. BecaLewis

So hey ... last time I checked your name was Lara and I would think I would know given that I'm your Mom. Hope they fix this quickly! Otherwise ,,, fabulous article!!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. pascalepetit

Wow! Great article! Very good tips!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. chaadygirl

always great inspiration

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:05 p.m. EJPcreations

So inspiring! I just love reading these articles!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:07 p.m. oliverhenry

Great advice, thank you for sharing this!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:07 p.m. mysticwynd

Great article, very inspirational! Lovely shop!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:07 p.m. squirrellicious

Great story and tips in here, thanks so much for sharing!
A true inspiration for me!!!!
Love your shop!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:11 p.m. warpedLaurie


Love to see a happy story.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:13 p.m. momochas

Excellent tips, thank you so much for sharing your story and congrats!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:13 p.m. pinkytoeclothing

Congrats! A lovely interview :)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:18 p.m. starvingartistbazaar

inspirational story. thanks for sharing!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:21 p.m. onegarnetgirl

LOVE these stories. great advice, Lara, and beautiful jewelry!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:22 p.m. JoyousVentures

Thanks for sharing! I admire what you've done, and hope to one day be able to say I was able to quit my day job thanks to Etsy!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. TrilliumTrue

Wow! What an inspiration! Keep up the good work!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. LemonGrove

congrats!! great article and beautiful jewelry!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. inkblok

Such a brilliant story and the tips and advice are so inspiring. It really is so helpful. Thank you and well done for all your success. Your shop is beautiful!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:27 p.m. baconsquarefarm

Congrats to you and what a great story~ Thanks for sharing all your tips too, cutting out coupons, getting out of debt, wish you continued success with your business and life ahead~!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:27 p.m. asundrynotion

Congratulations, laralewis! Staying focused, cutting out extra expenses and making do or buying second hand goes a long, long way to achieving goals. This feature is always a terrific inspiration. Thanks, marymary!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. titchables

Beautiful shop, and very inspirational.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:31 p.m. VixVintage

Lara you are amazing, thanks so much! I love your jewelry.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:36 p.m. vintagestyling

Fantastic shop and great advice, I hope the success carries on for many many years.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:36 p.m. feltmeupdesigns

well done for quitting your day job, it's inspiring to see that people can actually do it!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:38 p.m. theclassicfarmhouse

beautiful shop!!! And a great spotlight artist! Going to try and apply some of these pic tips since I have an "old" camera as well...hope mine turn out half as pretty as hers.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:40 p.m. sherrytruitt

Great interview, Lara. Living the simple life doing what you love to do. What more can you ask?

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:43 p.m. makepienotwar

wow! congrats chick! so happy for you!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:43 p.m. dishyvintage

Wonderful article -- so helpful and inspiring!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:44 p.m. GemsandDolls

Great info and what a great artist

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:50 p.m. ToadLillie

Congratulations on your success Lara! I wear a pair of your earrings all the time :) So inspiring to hear how you balance your passion and your family. All the best!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:50 p.m. seababejewelry

What a great feature! Your jewelry is beautiful. I'm so jealous of your wonderful workshop! Congrats!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:52 p.m. 3moonbabies

So informative! Thanks!...and Congrats!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:53 p.m. monicaazulann

Thanks for sharing! I'm not giving up! I too work in education and I look forward to being creative full time:)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:53 p.m. jpstyle

Good for you! Great article!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 5:54 p.m. Pearlk2

Great article and congratulations on your success.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:02 p.m. BitsAndPiecesEtc

loved the story. very inspiring. thanks for all your tips - especially the photo tips.
loved the bee earrings.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:06 p.m. artistudios

Thank you, Lara! I like your work, Forest Fairy Bracelet is so nice...
Warm regards.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:13 p.m. moonofglass

Your story is so inspiring!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:17 p.m. recycledwares

love the packaging, very professional. and i wanted that owl ring so bad, and it sold.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:18 p.m. burntmill

love these stories
my fav to read

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:23 p.m. 4TheSparrowsNest

Such pretty work Lara, and timeless advice too! Thanks for sharing these wonderful tips, and congratulations on being your own boss. :o)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:27 p.m. anadiazarte

Thanks a lot Lara, very good to know, congrats and best wishes to you.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:27 p.m. rebeccasanchez

So inspirational!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:34 p.m. katieblue

Great interview! You do beautiful work, it is so great to hear people able to quit their day jobs and do this full time! Very inspiring!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:35 p.m. FluteTeacher

This was fun to read and helpful, too! Thanks for the good advice.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:38 p.m. QuiltFinger

Great success story, Lara! Thank you for the wonderful tips!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:39 p.m. SimpleJoysPaperie

Congratulations on your success and thank you for the biz tips!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:40 p.m. pigeonprints

Beautiful work and congratulations on all of your success!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:43 p.m. amyholtondesigns

A really great article. Congratulations and thanks so much for sharing such great advice! Wishing you continued and growing success.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:46 p.m. shannonbatescreates

I always love reading these interviews, and I hope that someday quit my day job in order to focus on my creative ventures.

Great advice, Lara, and beautiful items in your shop! :)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:52 p.m. friendlycreationss

great article :D

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:53 p.m. spellitout

Love it!! Thanks a bunch for sharing!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:54 p.m. evdesign

Great Inspiration for a new seller like me. Nice shop too.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 6:59 p.m. ChelseaVanTol

lovely her shop is gorgeous :) I hearted a lot of things, thinking christmas

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7 p.m. PhineasandLou

This is wonderful and your work is absolutely beautiful! Thanks for sharing this :)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:04 p.m. StudioZen

Thanks for sharing your wonderful story, Lara! You are an inspiration.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:05 p.m. FashionTouch

Happy for you!!! Congrats!!!

FashionTouch
http://fashiontouch.etsy.com/

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:05 p.m. dorijenn

great read! Very inspiring and motivating!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:10 p.m. ColeAndJosephine

What an amazing article. She was so focused, disciplined, and well organized. She has a lot of very useful tips! Thanks!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:12 p.m. magickalrealism

I'm so glad you talk first about the financial management aspect - that's exactly how my fiancee and I had to figure it all out, too.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:13 p.m. EclaireArt

What an inspiration she is! Fantastic article!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:17 p.m. shizendesigns

Great article!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:20 p.m. ThePaperTray

Great read! Congrats

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:22 p.m. CocoCottage

This is both exciting and inspiring! Thanks for sharing!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:25 p.m. 1AEON

congrats!! so good to hear!!love it!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:29 p.m. bayatinge

Congratulations on your success! Your shop is wonderful! Thank you for the detailed pointers on how you made the jump. I love the pictures of your studio too! ...so inspiring!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:29 p.m. BellyDancePrincess

You have beautiful pieces Lara, congrats on your success!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. cynthiacallan

Wonderful story and very inspiring!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:34 p.m. DivineByDeidre

Great article! I "googled" my name and had no idea so much stuff would come up! I was honestly shocked! (in a good way) Thanks for the advice and may you continue to be very successful!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:37 p.m. LushPunk

This is a really helpful QYDJ article! Thankyou! :D

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:41 p.m. AllOverthePage

Keep the inspiration coming! Thanks for sharing and I'm always so happy for those who can "quit their day jobs!"

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:48 p.m. feltonthefly

Great article, great advice. I've drooled over Lara's jewelry a time or two...ok, or more!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:54 p.m. VintageJamie

Great tips, lala!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 7:55 p.m. jbeaudet

This was a great article with so many ideas and tips. Thank you so much for bringing this to us!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:06 p.m. stubborndog

Just a whole lot of "yay!" for you! Congratulations on your success. :-)

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:10 p.m. linkeldesigns

Great article! Congrats!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:19 p.m. sonrisa429

So happy for your success!! Good for you...

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:25 p.m. bedouin

Thanks for sharing both art and wisdom ~ a little inspiration goes a long way

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:29 p.m. eatsbeadsandcards

Congrats! We're rooting for you!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:37 p.m. BellaLili

What a great story! I always love reading these. They are so inspiring! Great job Laura!!!!!!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:37 p.m. vivilian

Congrats!!!! Such a pretty creation. I love your stuff a lot.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:44 p.m. mixbaby

Thank you for your story! I enjoyed reading about you=>

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:49 p.m. Mimiandlola

Congratulations! Thanks for the great tips!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:49 p.m. MilkGlassVintage

Gorgeous pieces, and as a former teacher, YES, it is great to be able to use the bathroom whenever you darn well please!!!!!!! (umm, unless the treasuries are opening up. then it's 'bladder, be damned!')

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:50 p.m. ChloesRuffleButt

Congratulations! You do beautiful work! Also, thanks for the photography tips, this is something that many of us struggle with!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:54 p.m. dennisanderson

Congrats! I am so happy that this article is still going, because it gives inspiration and dreams to alot of people to be able to say that they will quit their job to do something they love full time.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:56 p.m. birdshaveflowers

Love the story ! Love your items !

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:56 p.m. walkthetalk

great article! really fun to read about your pragmatic approach to your success! You are an inspiration.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 8:57 p.m. lifeofcolors

Congratulations with making it work! Great job.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:18 p.m. thefrenchfleashop

Congratulations on your success! Thanks too for all the wonderful advice for a new Etsy seller!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:25 p.m. psitsinthedetails

wow - you've shared so much awesome information! congratulations on your etsy success! :-)
your items are beautiful!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:29 p.m. mizusugi

A wonderful story and congrats on your success. Beautiful shop too!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:31 p.m. oldworldprimitives

Beautiful shop and an inspiring interview!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:35 p.m. mrsgritzy

Thank you Lara! Your success is beautiful!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:41 p.m. Flowerleaf

This article is awesome and very inspiring. I have a lot of work ahead of me and some goals to go set! Thanks so much for sharing this article! :-D

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:42 p.m. lemonadehandmade

I have always thought of myself as organized, but you. are. so. organized! And disciplined! I am taking notes! And congratulating you on your success- congrats! Great shop.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:44 p.m. AngelicArtwork

good for you! i am also a teacher who would love to simplify her life! congratulations on your success!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:44 p.m. sugarraindrops

This was a wonderful read. Thank you for sharing your great tips and very inspiring story. :]
Keep up the fabulous work!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 9:48 p.m. girltuesdayjewelry

Great advice, Lara, and beautiful creations in your shop! Thanks for sharing this! I also love the collection of prints from Berkleyillustrated in the first picture!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:04 p.m. BululuGems

Beautiful jewelry, thank for the tips.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:04 p.m. asmushomeinteriors

Wonderful story...I love reading all about others successes. Beautiful shop...wishing you continued success!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:06 p.m. Waterrose

Great story and love that she listed her priorities. Thanks for sharing!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:15 p.m. AnnieTwoBraids

Great Article! Especially loved the practical tax and business advice!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:15 p.m. MollyMolStudios

Very inspiring and helpful... Thank you!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:15 p.m. lovelygifts

Good article and great advice! Congratulations!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:23 p.m. MyPatternedMind

Another great inspiration!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:39 p.m. alisonkelleydesigns

You are truly an inspiration, thank you so much for sharing your story!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:43 p.m. FlanneryCrane

I loved seeing your studio and reading your advice! Excellent, and much continued success!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:44 p.m. starshinecompany

Thanks for sharing your story and I love your studio!!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:48 p.m. MiladyLeela

Thanks for a great article and solid advise!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:53 p.m. linsjewelbox

congrats lara! one thing i have learnt is to focus on your work and not be too bothered making comparisons to other people and how they are progressing. but having a few good friends on Etsy does help provide moral support and the little nudge to not give up!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:54 p.m. BeanSproutStudio

Fantastic article! This truly is one of the best Quit Your Day Job articles I've read in awhile. Congratulations on your success!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 10:58 p.m. FloriFlori

Great article,hope i can quit my day job and persued my dream one day.Thanks!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:14 p.m. CDChilds

Very impressive! It confirms that I'm still not working as hard as I should.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:15 p.m. DeborahVoizin

Fantastic article!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:19 p.m. smilingbluedog

Great article & very inspiring.
Thanks for sharing your experiences.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:19 p.m. realisationcreations

Awesome work Lara! Fab article!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:24 p.m. kodashii88

Amazing info, and a wonderful story ; )

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:36 p.m. thebirchperch

Thanks so much for being so specific with your tips. Several of them were really insightful for me.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:43 p.m. maderasytrapos

wonderfull shop!!! :) great story

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:46 p.m. MetroGypsy

Oh wow! Congrats! I've actually seen her Etsy card next to mine on the same Panera cafe corkboards when I'm in NEPA! Congrats Lara!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:47 p.m. RosesDesigns

Thanks for sharing your story. I hope to be where you're at some day!

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:49 p.m. thesmilingfoxstudio

Super inspiring!

Lovely work, and what a tidy studio! Congrats on your success Lara.

Oct. 12, 2009 at 11:52 p.m. rctees

Such an inspiration. Wonderfully positive article!!
Lara, you've now been added to my "hero's" list.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:12 a.m. LDCraftSupplies

"Luckedog" Congrats to you!Continued success.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:15 a.m. AlliesAdornments

Amazing! Wishing you continued success!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:15 a.m. bluepandemonium

I found this article really inspirational too. Thanks for all the great advice on running your own business and being more practical with spending habits and finances.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:17 a.m. Beadz2Pleaz

Very inspiring thanks for sharing!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:22 a.m. orchardfarmsoap

So inspiring! thanks for sharing your success story.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:28 a.m. JeannineRobertsRoyce

Hard work, creativity, intrepid optimism= success
Well done, Lara

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:29 a.m. Peacefuldusk

Thanks for writing this, love your work so much!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:40 a.m. philosophi

Thanks for sharing your photo tips. I feel better about my cheapie camera now!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:47 a.m. brydesigns

Congrats on making your dreams work out. You have some beautiful pieces!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:05 a.m. JL67

Congratulations Lara! And thanks sooo much for sharing some very helpful info... :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:11 a.m. kateendle

Your backgrounds are fantastic. They beautifully highlight your spectacular work. Congratulations!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:33 a.m. momomatic

Love Lara Lewis! Thanks for featuring her beautiful work and person!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:55 a.m. nitajumadesigns

Great inspirations.Kudos!! Keep me motivated. Thanks

Oct. 13, 2009 at 3:40 a.m. sivansart

All the best
Sivan

Oct. 13, 2009 at 3:59 a.m. TataniaRosa

So inspirational. Congratulations Lara :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:07 a.m. lizzibeff

Fantastic inspiration, your tips for starting out are highly practical and make me believe i could do it. Love!

xo

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:14 a.m. Hapagirls

Very inspiring !!! Congrats on your success.
Elan

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:20 a.m. treeforyou

Beautiful interview, beautiful shop!

It was a pleasure to read it!
x

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:22 a.m. Faerydog1969

So inspiring and encouraging - thankyou :D

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:45 a.m. Ebruk

Congrats your success.You have a beautiful shop.Thank you for sharing.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:53 a.m. 0juracoquet

that's great. congratulations - your wishes became true. it's realy important, that you love what you make. and this brings you success. thanks for sharing yor minds :)beautiful things you make :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:56 a.m. sagu

it's sooo beautiful

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5 a.m. ResistTheCurrent

Wonderful article!! Very inspirational...just what I needed!!! Thanks :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:02 a.m. LuckyLadybugJewelry

Lara, you did a wonderful job preparing yourself for your new adventure. You are and will continue to be an inspiration to others. I wish you much success in the future. Thank you for sharing, cj

Oct. 13, 2009 at 6:25 a.m. legacylinens

Thanks for so many wonderful tips, especially on photography! You are an inspiration for success.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 6:57 a.m. tractorgirl

Thanks for sharing, it s good to know I'm on the right track, but also that I've got lots of work to do!!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:04 a.m. LittleGreenSquirrel

Inspiring!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:11 a.m. Bluebrooch

I absolutely adore your packaging and the gorgeous owl ring!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:24 a.m. Imagesbylynnann

Thanks for the wonderful story and tips! Love the Forest Fairy bracelet!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:31 a.m. DeBonisOrquera

Congratulations Lara!!!!!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:43 a.m. Iammie

Beautiful shop! Congrats!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:49 a.m. LuLusPhotography

Very inspiring!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:50 a.m. bluetina

Great interview! Well done Lara, we all admire what you have managed to do! Lovely jewellery, too!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:57 a.m. congcongdesign

wow.that's my dream life and i am doing my business on my etsy shop work hard.hope quit my job as soon as possibele and stay etsy whole day.and welcome to my shop www.congcongdesign.etsy.com all items from china.buddha,chinese painting,and my design and made them cloth things.hope you enjoy here. thanks.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:01 a.m. fantasybeader

Congrats, wishing you much success in the future :-)

Great story.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:06 a.m. hamptonjewels

Great article! Congratulations on your success! You are an inspiration. :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:10 a.m. writeonthewall

Great job. Love the tree painting in the background! Good luck with the 2'nd etsy store.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:16 a.m. joyfulstar

I love how detailed you are - THIS is why I read these!

Also, you guys look far too young to have a teenager!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:22 a.m. VGDesignStudio

This was a very informative article. Your jewelry is beautiful. I love the green pumpkin.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:32 a.m. trolltracks

Thank you for taking the time to write a great and informative story. Congrats to you!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:35 a.m. Torrilynn123

Thanks so much for sharing! It's so awesome that you were able to quit your job and be able to stay home and work! Continued success :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:42 a.m. CityChicCountryMouse

Fabulous story! Great tips on photography! And your packaging is gorgeous! Thanks for sharing your story with us :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:45 a.m. contempojewels

We are both in State College! Congrats to you!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:57 a.m. angelacallanan

This is probably the best, most in depth, comprehensive Quit Your Day Job feature I have read so far. Excellent advice, my favourite bit being:

"Try not to compare yourself to others, it will just make you feel bad and prevent you from developing your own style. Most importantly: Don’t give up!"

Thank you so much for sharing this. Definitely worth printing off and keeping.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9 a.m. KbOriginalsetc

What a lovely story! you are certainly "in the zone"...Great success wishes to you!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:13 a.m. alexandratiara

A really helpful article, thanks! I am just starting out working from home so I can be a stay at home mum. x

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:24 a.m. BohemiaJewellery

Thanks for this excellent article. I'd love to read more like this!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:27 a.m. zombuki

Very pretty items and great advice :3 thanks for sharing!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:33 a.m. BlackStar

Great interview! Here's to your continued success~

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:35 a.m. caoimhamarie

amazing story and amazing shop!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:36 a.m. yaelfran

Great shop Sara!!!!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:39 a.m. HellsSewingCircle

Thank you so much for your honest and practical business advice! Congrats on your move and attaining quit-your-day-job status :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 9:59 a.m. quiltwork

Interesting and encouraging story! Thanks for sharing!
I liked your practical down to eath advice!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:02 a.m. MeowBarkArt

What great advice- thanks for sharing your story. I love your studio & your jewelry is amazing. My personal favorite is that green pumpkin necklace!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:04 a.m. littletjane

fantastic! lovely work & thanks for sharing your happiness...it spreads quickly! congrats, lara!!! :D

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:07 a.m. bunnylogic

Thanks for sharing! Love your shop.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:08 a.m. tinaspaper

thanks so very much for all the great tips!!! congrats!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:09 a.m. revelry

Beautiful jewelry! I love the vintage look of them.

Great article; I love the "quit your day job" series. Gives inspiration! Thanks for letting us take a look into your studio.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:16 a.m. SarahsReef

Beautiful work and excellent tips! Congratulations!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:17 a.m. echosofspring

Lovely article and very inspiring. COngratz Lara!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:27 a.m. outspokenjewelry

Beautiful jewelry. Love the vintage feel.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:36 a.m. thebestvintage

These stories are always inspiring!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:40 a.m. accentonvintage

You are an inspiration! Congrats! I'm going to try to work harder!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:56 a.m. beachhouseblues

Thanks for sharing your story!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:58 a.m. CopperLeafStudios

fellow teacher here; LOVE the interview!! and completely appreciate everything in that vein -- from scarce jobs, to long commutes, to "planning time". Thank you, and congratulations!!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 11:36 a.m. jaditekate

great article! great tips!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 11:42 a.m. TomBjornDesigns

*what a great story! thanks for sharing! truly inspiring!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 11:59 a.m. jlmyakima

Love,love,love the article!!! I also quit my day job to stay home with my little ones and what an amazing journey it has been. Now to start my Etsy business, Thanks for all the helpful tips!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at noon cardinalhouse

Great tips! Thanks

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:05 p.m. FruitionJewelry

Awesome! Great advice, thank you!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:24 p.m. mleesanders

Very nice story! I wish you all the success in the world and I thank you for your generous advice.
Keep on!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:25 p.m. AmandaKLockrowJewels

Thank you so much for sharing all of this advice and insight with us. I love reading success stories like this one!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:42 p.m. SeizeTheNight

Your jewelry is beautiful! Thanks for the helpful tips too! :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:49 p.m. AshleyDaugherty

Congrats on your success! Wonderful story.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 12:52 p.m. RedFenyx

Congratulations! Really interesting interview!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1 p.m. AndersonCrafts

Thanks. I need inspiration

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:03 p.m. amyhatch

congratulations, Lara! lovely article, love your shop!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:09 p.m. SandyToesJewelry

Very inspirational story! It gives me hope!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:14 p.m. ThePattypanShop

Your shop is great and a wonderful story - thanks for the inspiration!!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:16 p.m. tiemee

GREAT job!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:16 p.m. silknparachute

Utterly thorough, humorous, heartfelt and warm and fuzzy. Congratulations on your success.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:18 p.m. msddesign

I am in love with this jewelry!! Really enjoyed the article, too. Inspiring. Thank you.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:24 p.m. bellabuttondesigns

Congratulations! I love your jewelry, especially that green pumpkin necklace.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:34 p.m. EssemDesign

Congrats!! I am tyring to accomplish the same thing... I have a similar sched to yours as well... but with a toddler and a 5 month old in the mix! LOL

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:38 p.m. LauraSheppardFibre

Inspiring, as always!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:44 p.m. Stellaltinaan

Stories like this keeps me hopeful. Thanks for sharing.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:44 p.m. ragadoos

advice that makes sense to me! congratulations and cheers.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:52 p.m. SingingSky

What an inspiration!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 1:55 p.m. 2ndHandMade

Great advice and great items. You are so creative!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 2:07 p.m. ktolve

i would love to quit my day job, I guess i will just have to keep crafting into the night until then <3

Oct. 13, 2009 at 2:26 p.m. SilverNutmegStudio

Wow! How inspiring! Thanks so much for sharing!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. spacejam

best wishes )) great story!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 2:40 p.m. thirtyonedesigns

Congrats! Lovely pieces :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 2:45 p.m. annastrunk

I was really inspired by Lara's story! I plan on implementing some of her suggestions TODAY!! Lara, Wishing you continued success!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 2:54 p.m. SugarCreekHollow

What a great story and truly an inspiration!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 3:17 p.m. lilyandgertrude

What an accomplishment!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 3:29 p.m. Nishale

Beautiful

Oct. 13, 2009 at 3:58 p.m. mruxndesign

keep rocking the world!
good luck and success!
kris
www.mr-uxn.com
http://mruxndesign.blogspot.com/

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:04 p.m. babook

Gorgeous shop I love this style !! Congrats Congrats .

http://www.babook.etsy.com/

Oct. 13, 2009 at 4:28 p.m. prairieboutique

I enjoyed reading your story and you've inspired me to keep making daily lists! I too get distracted and my work doesn't get done!
Congratulations on working from home, doing what you love to do!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:04 p.m. theenchantedcupboard

Great Tips thank you for sharing! I will apply what I learned!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:05 p.m. picnipic

congratulations, your storie is very interesting!
and i love my earrings...! ;)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:06 p.m. wildflower129

Thanks so much for the great advice! Your items are lovely - I'm quite drawn to the fairy leaf bracelet.....mmmm I'm tempted.

Best of luck to you!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:08 p.m. BecaLewis

Hey Lara,

I would have loved to meet you in the virtual lab, but for some reason it was never set up for us to go into ..

Too bad it wasn't there!

Maybe another time??

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:15 p.m. laralewis

WOW, if there was a lab and I missed it I TRULY apologize to anyone that showed up! I was here at 5pm ET....wasn't that the right time? *sigh*

Anyways, thank you everyone for this awesome feedback! If anyone still has questions for me, I would be more than happy to answer them...just send me a convo. Even, you, Mom! :P

~Lara

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:23 p.m. TefillahSerenity

Lara,
Greetings, this was such a wonderful story. First and foremost I wanted to say thank you for sharing this wonderful and approachable story. Thank you for the tips and for showing us all that if you stay motivated and have support anything is possible along with FAITH. I'm so happy that you were able to quit your day job and doing what you absolutely enjoy. I know spending more time with your family is priceless and I hope to one day be in the same boat. I'm also happy to know that you were able to help move your family closer to your grandparents, etc. That is truly a blessing. Again, thank you for the wonderful, step by step story. It truly gives me hope. I wish you much more continued success. Have a blessed week..

Peace, Balance, and Light,
T

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:25 p.m. laralewis

Oh don't I feel like a dingbat...it's tomorrow, not today! Haha, whoops! :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:38 p.m. Handworks3

Thanks for the inspiring help- we need it.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:51 p.m. lisaroy

love this story - so inspiring

Oct. 13, 2009 at 5:55 p.m. BlondePeacock

Congrats and thanks for all of the advice! Super job! I love your creations. :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 6:14 p.m. FancyThatCookies

love her jewelry!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 6:48 p.m. thevanitytable

This is a great article. She has great advice that I'll start using now! She sounds so happy w/ her business,family,choices,etc. That's somethng that I can really strive & hope for!!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 7:19 p.m. Keikeaux

Thank you Lara. It's always encouraging to hear success stories. Thank you for the great advice.

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:13 p.m. shekstar

this is a very inspiring success story! :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:18 p.m. JiSTdesigns

thank you so much for the great story! I dream of quitting my day job... you are an inspiration!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 8:39 p.m. SimpleTraditions

Thank you so much for sharing! A really great article, with lots of great tips. And your work is beautiful!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:10 p.m. grasmanmbs

gooooooooooooooooood

Oct. 13, 2009 at 10:23 p.m. mymonsterpillow

Yea for you! I would LOVE to have Monster making as my full time job! (and I guess, monster adoption too!) You are an inspiration and more good luck too you!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 11:06 p.m. BigHelmetHead

I enjoyed so much reading your story, thank you for sharing. Your creations are beautiful and elegant. Congrats and keep the good work! :)

Oct. 13, 2009 at 11:10 p.m. AndSoForth

Thanks so much Lara! Loved all the great tips! You are an
inspiration to all of us! Congratulations and good wishes!
Love your work!

Oct. 13, 2009 at 11:59 p.m. basrelief

Cool Like a Tool

Oct. 14, 2009 at 12:44 a.m. AmazingBeading

I love you story. It was very inspiring.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 1:22 a.m. FairytaleBling

Your stuff is beautiful!! Great job!!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 1:40 a.m. misaphia

Great Story. Totally Motivated me!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:22 a.m. TerraScents

What a great success story!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 7:30 a.m. thedaydreamer

The owl ring is gorgeous. And many congrats to Lara for making her dream come true.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 9:09 a.m. loverlea

Congrats! This is very inspiring :D

Oct. 14, 2009 at 9:43 a.m. TreeHuggerStudio

Your story is awesome. I love your stuff,beautiful. Thanks for sharing all the great tips and I wish you continued success!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 10:39 a.m. ImagoDRIFT

Well done Lara! I love ready the quit your day job articles.
wonderful inspiration...Thanks for the tips :)

Oct. 14, 2009 at 12:06 p.m. PapillionQuilts

Great story.It takes courage and faith to quit a day job. Your a winner! Thanks for passing it on.

Oct. 14, 2009 at 12:17 p.m. wellseasonednest

Lara - I'm working feverishly to get my act together and make my first listings on Etsy (and do it right!), although my website/blog (www.thewellseasonednest.com)has been up and running for some time. Thanks so much for the insightful and helpful tips. The article really pumped me!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 12:47 p.m. Lynndart

Wonderful Article! kudos to you for taking the plunge!! My goal is that by the time my youngest is graduated (next year) I will finally be able to quit my day (well evening) job, and create full time. you have inspired me to keep working toward it!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 1:33 p.m. jillybeadjewelry

Beautiful story! My top goal in life is to quit my job and be able to work from home so i can spend time with my family! My 2 passions in life, my family and creating jewelry! Thanks for a little hope!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:24 p.m. SaudadeStudio

Lara:

Thanks so much for all the wonderful and inspiration story!

It takes courage to quit a day job. Your a winner! Congratulations!!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 3:48 p.m. Selkiemoonlight

Congrats Lara! Wonderful article and thanks for all the in depth, detailed information. You are an inspiration! :-)

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:17 p.m. tinyspace

love your shop!!

Oct. 14, 2009 at 4:54 p.m. ArtisticIntentions

Congtratulations on your success, and may it continue to grow. You have given wonderful advice in this very inspiring interview - thank you for sharing!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 2:04 a.m. raghousenternational

Very inspiring! Thank you.

Ren
http://www.raghousenternational.etsy.com

Oct. 15, 2009 at 2:47 a.m. MyLauda

thank u for sharing, it's really inspiring, especially your workday schedule... love it!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:52 a.m. poppycottage

loved your story...keep up the good work!!! June

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:18 a.m. NoSugarExtraCream

You are an inspiration to all of us who still hold down jobs outside the home. Congrats on all of your success now and in the future! Thank you for the kick in the rear this morning! :)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:48 a.m. QuiteContrary2

absolutely inspiring tale! and I love the pumpkin necklace!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 11:29 a.m. thepurplecoyotemoon

Great tips and stunning items! Organization is key!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 1:25 p.m. ShimmeringSky

A fabulous seller (and shop!) and such detailed tips for being successful on Etsy! I'm a list maker myself, so I really identify with the organizing part. You are a true inspiration and a great example of Etsy success. Congratulations! I'm definitely going to be in your Virtual Lab!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. christahoward

I always learn something valuable from successful sellers- thank you.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 4:51 p.m. GoldenSilhouette

Thanks so much for your inspiring words...I am working towards quitting my day job and its always good to read that my instincts are right!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 4:55 p.m. orkideavioleta

Really inspiring, thank you for sharing your tips!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 4:57 p.m. bijougirldesigns

Really great article. I'm so glad to hear about people who are doing what they love. It really encourages me. Our "typical workday"s are quite similar! =)
Keep up the good work!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:02 p.m. SunflowerHaven

Very helpful!!! Thanks so much!!!!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:08 p.m. RueDesign

You have really inspired me to keep trying and not get so down on my work. Also, thanks for the tips, you answered many of my questions about preparing for the big leap.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:09 p.m. smellyrhino

Great article!! thanks Lara!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:14 p.m. KimPipesDesigns

Thank you for lots of great advice. I have made my first sale and am hoping and working towards many others.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:15 p.m. adorableorganics

You offered a lot of great advice - congrats on your success! You make beautiful jewelry! :)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:15 p.m. FibersStudio

fabulous! Taking all tips to heart and hoping you the most success ever! :)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:20 p.m. howlhandbags

what an inspiration! i'm a gal that needs a plan, so seeing how disciplined and organized you were from the start is really encouraging to me. hopefully someday i'll be able to make the same brave shift--i can only pray i'll do it as gracefully as you. thanks!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:20 p.m. kalicat

wow, everything looks so nice, even the packaging, lovely boses and ribbon
x
Kalicat

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:20 p.m. pixelmint

Thanks for telling your story and sharing such great advice. Your work is beautiful. Congratulations on your success!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:21 p.m. Spamaluca

Love your shop...keep it up...I'm coming for a visit with any Christmas $ that may come my way.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:27 p.m. jtopolski

Thanks so much for the tip about Small Business Development Centers. I'd never even heard of them, but I just checked it out and they look so helpful!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:30 p.m. Sumikoshop

nice to know a bit about you
and thanks for sharing your success with us ...

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:36 p.m. sleepgoblin

I love that green pumpkin necklace! Also, I appreciate you taking the time to give such detailed advice. I need to work on my discipline if I ever want to do this full time!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:45 p.m. samsstuff

Thank you for the great advice. I particularly like the part about not comparing yourself to others & not giving up. I also love the emphasis on organization. Thanks for posting this gem of an interview!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 5:56 p.m. SeventhCloudStudio

Thanks for the inspiration and ideas...Love your work!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:10 p.m. HighDesertRose

This article really touched me in a deep way. This little family made a big dream come true by getting back to basics.

Congratulations Lara for working hard, staying organized (isn't that just the hardest part?) and making it all work so beautifully. Very inspiring article.

Thank you!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:12 p.m. parallel

my favorite part is the 'daily breakdown'. (-;

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:16 p.m. 2Tui

What great information! Thanks for being so generous.
Great move.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:19 p.m. Mystiquebijoux

Dear Lara,

Thanks for:

-Sharing your passion with us
-Your constructive tips
-Giving us hope!

;-) Mystique

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:25 p.m. autumntakesme

I LOVE HER. i have her earrings!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:41 p.m. GuidingLightGlass

Thank You so much for sharing your wonderful success story with us. You are truely an inspiration.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:44 p.m. thesittingtree

Thanks so much for sharing. Aren't hubbies the best for going to the post office for us?!!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 6:52 p.m. modstitches

These ideas were very helpful. I now have them on my "to-do" list. Thank you.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:07 p.m. ErinJeanLLC

Great Story!! Very inspirational!!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:12 p.m. elasticwasteland

great tips! thank you so much! and congratulations on your success!! :))

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:13 p.m. alisalahti

Thank you! Daily list tip a great!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:41 p.m. marypearlsvintage

Very inspiring! Thanks for sharing your wisdom.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:42 p.m. lamixx

great story and tips thanks!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 7:44 p.m. ByrdsOvaFeather

Thanks for the inspirational tips! Your family also sounds great to. :)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:03 p.m. keKreations

What a great inspiration!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:19 p.m. TheMayFlower

I love your shop and thanks for the tips! They're very useful!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:33 p.m. RinconRoad

Thanks for sharing your story! I love your work. Your a great inspiration for all us moms trying to balance our work and family! Best of luck to you.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:36 p.m. PennyFarrow

This is a great story, thanks for the detailed description of how you got where you want to be, congratulations! God bless

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:41 p.m. Karlandedesigns

Congratulations on taking that big step! I really enjoyed your article and admire your courage to take such a big leap. You have included many great pieces of advice. Keep up the great work! Andrea

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:46 p.m. chocowaffle

I love her jewlery!!! <3

Thanks for the great tips. ^^

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:55 p.m. nataliabodre

Great article!! Thanks for tips. I hope my shop will finally start working right too...

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:59 p.m. MelsBellsClocheHats

Very detailed and inspirational article! Congrats and all the best! :)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 8:59 p.m. zealcrafts

Thanks for sharing your experiences! And I LOVE your jewlery! I'm sure I'll become a regular customer! I don't know how you do everything, though. I have roughly the same time to work but it seems like I can barely get a few items done each day, let alone all of the other stuff. Whew!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:18 p.m. TimelessPaper

Thank you for the business story and advice! It's so nifty to hear how other shops are going through the same thing I am.

Best,

Emily

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:27 p.m. kdwj1993

Cudos to laralewis -- I am so proud to be a part of ETSY. Thank you for this opportunity. I am just starting out, but I am very optimistic and have great finds available for purchase. Welcome to my shop.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:39 p.m. GemsByJoy

very inspiring! thank you!:)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 9:56 p.m. blancheb

So glad someone is living my dream. Most of my sales take place on the down low at work so for now I will have to just be happy for you and maybe one day my time will come too!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 10:09 p.m. AKingsThings

Great read...great shop

Oct. 15, 2009 at 10:15 p.m. YosemiteBeadGallery

Thanks for the advice, It's great to hear your lovely shop is doing so well.

Oct. 15, 2009 at 10:17 p.m. santabarbaradesigns

kudos to you Lara!!!!!

Oct. 15, 2009 at 10:28 p.m. GraciousMe

Thanks so much for sharing. It can all be quite daunting to us beginners. While I opened my shop in July, today I finally listed my first products. It's hard to make time for my business when no one is taking it seriously yet...even me! GraciousMe

Oct. 15, 2009 at 11:35 p.m. SunshineDaydreamz

Thanks for such great tips about running a business and sharing about your family! Multi-tasking at it's best :)

Oct. 15, 2009 at 11:51 p.m. DiosasForumBoutique

Thank you for sharing your experiences and advice with such simplicity. You have made me realize that there are things that you just need to follow, no matter what and stay persistant even with all the distractions. I will read your interview again and again and I hope you don't mind me using you as a guide....Maryna

Oct. 16, 2009 at 1:22 a.m. MysticalMice

Very inspiring, and motivating! I definitely learned a few tips. It truly sounds like you love what you do, which is the most important thing of all:-) Best wishes for your continued success - I'm sure a 2nd shop will be just as amazing!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 5:02 a.m. jewellea

Thank you for sharing the important tips. A great artist.
best wishes for the 2nd store.
Lea

Oct. 16, 2009 at 6:37 a.m. simplywillow

I am currently on "forced" disability for the next 4-5 months pending the birth of our little boy! I am looking for ways to grow, organise and expand my business and my presence in the handmade community. Articles like these are great inspirations! I hope to be one of those "leaving my day job" by mid-March

Thanks so much for telling us about your experience!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 8 a.m. Lofjes

Hi Lara,

what an inspiring story! I just started on Etsy and I am eager for all good tips and tools.
You make beautiful art!
Take care, Eileen.

Oct. 16, 2009 at 8:17 a.m. Royalpaca

Very inspirational ! I love to hear about others doing what they want to be doing !
It's amazing how much one can save by not driving to work every morning! And payment a sitter, and buying ready made food, because there's no time to cook !
I've recently discovered that too!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 8:43 a.m. sunnysmile

Awesome Artist!What great Hope to look forward to! Thanks for sharing your inspiring story!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 8:47 a.m. handcraftedjewels

Really enjoyed reading the interview and all the inspirational tips and hints for a successful Etsy store! Thanks :-)

Oct. 16, 2009 at 9:02 a.m. jpgallery

Gorgeous work - thanks for the encouragement!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 9:11 a.m. zueeuz

Congratulations on your fun shop! Your backgrounds are interesting and varied, but not distracting. Useful information in the article, Thanks!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 9:41 a.m. etincellestudio

She sounds so friendly! I just feel like buying a pair of earrings right now to support her!!! Also the best advices I ever read so far.
To my opinion, her prices are truly competitive, which must help her sell quantities :)
Keep up the good work!!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 10:36 a.m. bingopajamas

I am new to Etsy and you are an inspiration to me! Thank you for all your advise. Keep up the good work.

Oct. 16, 2009 at 11:21 a.m. patriciasaabdesigns

Wow! Lots of beautiful items, and lovely photos. Appreciate the helpful suggestions; I always learn alot from other shop owners---

Oct. 16, 2009 at 11:51 a.m. zsazsazsu1963

I am so happy for you that you were able to make your dream come true. Thanks for the tips and hopefully my dream will come true also !

Oct. 16, 2009 at 12:02 p.m. NaturallyGoodSoaps

What great advice. I am also in the planning stages of me being able to work from home and I will take your advice! Good luck!!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 12:06 p.m. petalandpink

So inspiring! Congrats on your success!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 12:19 p.m. LarissaSpafford

Wow! Thanks for the details! It's so great to hear success stories :)

Oct. 16, 2009 at 1:03 p.m. designsbywynema

This is great inspiration for me!! Thank you for sharing!!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 1:36 p.m. LejoliechatBridal

it's so beautiful !!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 1:45 p.m. molinafashion

I would love to do the same one of these days. Congrats!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. maryellenscrafts

Great article. Very inspiring!!! Wishing continuing success. Thanks for the information.

Oct. 16, 2009 at 3:42 p.m. CindyRodriguez

Thanks for sharing your advice. It's so helpful to see it all broken down into steps. I love the bee earrings and woodland lockets. Congratulations on living the dream!!

Oct. 16, 2009 at 8:05 p.m. PrairiePrimitives

Congratulations on being chosen for this feature! I always enjoy reading about how other artists structure their day!

You mentioned getting a domain name, even if you're not ready to use it. Just wanted to let you know that you can hook your domain name up to your Etsy shop ... I did! http://PrairiePrimitivesFolkart.com

Oct. 16, 2009 at 11:56 p.m. twokidsstudio

wow! very beautiful work! :)

Oct. 17, 2009 at 4:32 a.m. plasticmoon

Good article, i've found motivation ;)

Oct. 17, 2009 at 5:59 a.m. PigsDoFly

Great story. Thanks for sharing.

Oct. 17, 2009 at 8:42 p.m. imwithsully

A very inspiring story! And I love the Vintage Woodland Locket.

Oct. 17, 2009 at 10:11 p.m. 7StarsStudio

Thanks for sharing your story. This is just the information and inspiration I need as I move closer to quitting my day job (teaching!).

Oct. 18, 2009 at 11:44 a.m. GeeZees

Congrats, that is a great story...best of luck!

Oct. 18, 2009 at 2:04 p.m. HinasApprentice

Thanks for the great advice. Adore the green green pumpking necklace. Off to google my name and see what pops up...

Oct. 18, 2009 at 5:58 p.m. MeAndBoo

Fantastic packaging, really nice. Some good practical advice too, thanks!

Oct. 19, 2009 at 7:25 a.m. chocolatecreative

Good advice, I love reading this articles I just hope I can say the same anytime soon!!

Oct. 19, 2009 at 7:51 a.m. fallenpeach

very very inspiring :)

Oct. 19, 2009 at 11:09 a.m. vintagemaison

Great story, good advice, lovely craftwork - especially the Marie Antoinette earrings!

Oct. 19, 2009 at 4:53 p.m. SevenTreeDesigns

Great tips. I'm originally from State College too, go central PA:) I love your style!

Oct. 19, 2009 at 8:26 p.m. chichimai

wow... great advice.. amazing!!! congratulations... may you have many more success...

Oct. 19, 2009 at 9:55 p.m. elephantine

I loved reading this! Super inspiring.

Oct. 20, 2009 at 1:49 a.m. trudiedavies

Great to read about your journey. Learnt new things.Congrats and Good for you!

Oct. 20, 2009 at 7:22 a.m. theduskyjewel

Nice article and very inspiring! Wishing you much success!!

Oct. 20, 2009 at 9:16 a.m. jayval

I've always admired her shop..Congrats Lara..This is very inspirational to me...When I was starting I remember emailing Lara for advice, and wow, she responded in less then an hour and was a huge help to me...Thanks!!!

Oct. 20, 2009 at 10:46 p.m. vintageposter

Very nice and thanks for the advice...

Oct. 21, 2009 at 7:48 a.m. IbeJewel

Thanks for sharing and the advice. Wish you continued success.

Oct. 21, 2009 at 6:28 p.m. stagedragon

This article is awesome! So helpful and inspiring! Just the kickstart I needed :) Thanks Lara and MaryMary!

Oct. 21, 2009 at 6:47 p.m. suhafuha

Amazing story!! I'm SO inspired.

Oct. 21, 2009 at 8:15 p.m. 2Martha

Great article and so very inspiring ... and the best part: "don't give up!"
Absolutely loved it! Thanks and much much success!

Oct. 22, 2009 at 7:13 p.m. cashmerebark

Very inspiring indeed. Good work! Thank you and best wishes.

Oct. 24, 2009 at 1:05 a.m. graycat26

This article was so great. Lara's realization that only she is responsible for her success (yikes!) is a fact all artists are faced with at some point- and it made me feel more human! Love your jewelry:)

Oct. 26, 2009 at 3:27 p.m. LadyLuLus

Great picks!

Lovely items :)

http://www.ladylulus.etsy.com

Oct. 31, 2009 at 8:48 p.m. behressentials

Love your shop, love your story and love your tips!!!

Nov. 10, 2009 at 10:52 p.m. laura1953

A main stumbling block for me is health/dental insurance. If I quit my day job, it will become a significant monthly expense. (As is the case for many others in my position!)
Do you know of any insurance companies that cater to small business owners or craftspeople/artists? Your input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks, and best of success and happiness in your work!
Laura

Nov. 10, 2009 at 10:53 p.m. laura1953

A main stumbling block for me is health/dental insurance. If I quit my day job, it will become a significant monthly expense. (As is the case for many others in my position!)
Do you know of any insurance companies that cater to small business owners or craftspeople/artists? Your input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks, and best of success and happiness in your work!
Laura

Nov. 11, 2009 at 12:45 p.m. FaeryKissNaturals

Seeing your article was just what a needed today. Thank you so much for the inspiration and wisdom, Laura!

Nov. 11, 2009 at 5:39 p.m. r2swanger

I love your work and will be placing an order on pay day!

Ruth Ann

Nov. 20, 2009 at 1:25 p.m. idlehandsdesigns

Thanks so much Laura for taking the time to share your knowledge! Great red ::)
Lyndsay

Nov. 20, 2009 at 1:26 p.m. idlehandsdesigns

um I mean read ::)

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