Have A Seat and Get To Know A Few Of My Friends
As the December Giveaway nears a close (what? you haven't entered yet?), it's time for me to highlight my lovely sponsors.
Again, and again, I am amazed at the support I receive from my sponsors. There is no way that I could offer such wonderful prize packages to Mercantile Muse followers without them. No way. Period.
In the true spirit of Christmas, these sponsors have each given a little of themselves. They work hard stocking their etsy shops with an array of items that all have one thing in common.......they're all handmade with love.
Isn't that the best?
If you haven't met these fine people yet, take a moment and get to know them a little better......won't you?
I've probably told you before, Kristen was one of the first people I met in this 'land of blog'. She's been extremely fun, although a little camera shy (right K?) to have on my side. As if she's not busy enough with two small chitlins, she has a charming little shop Milo and Molly where she offers lovely paper goods and sewn gifts. You'll find personalized note card sets, key chains, clutches, and crayon carriers to name a few. Kristen also has a blog you should visit. Would I steer you wrong?
Dianne (spelled just like my sister....two Ns please) of ReMemory Designs has a knack for pretty ogranization. Dianne makes beautiful designer magnetic memory boards and has an awesome selection with a wonderful variety of fabric choices. Her designs also come in three styles: table top, wall, and mini. I think they're a fantabulous way to display notes in your office, pictures in your living room, or grocery and errand lists in your kitchen. Whatever your need, there is one just for you.
Sarah of Upscale Downhome is a home decor maven. She's also 'A-dub' to me (short for Antler Woman.....oh yes I did tell them Sarah). This gal has been on a hot-damn antler frenzy this holiday season, crafting away, mounting antlers on wood plaques with classic plaids and trim. Love 'em. She's also been selling 'em like hotcakes. The antlers aside, what Sarah usually focuses her energy on are her curtain tie backs. Unique, varied, beautiful.....There is a pair for every decor imaginable. She also has a keen eye for vintage and includes real keepers in her shop collection, though I'm not always sure why she'd part with some. Another blogging pal, you'll find Sarah sewing, crafting, DIYing and hosting Window Treatment Wednesdays over on her blog.
Jessica is the artist behind JMM Studios' fantasy art and enchanting gifts. JMM offers cards, keepsake boxes, and jewelry. Jessica is a self taught artist who is drawn to fairies and sprites and such, some with a Gothic edge, and sometimes more earthly things like flowers. Each piece offered at JMM Studios is made with care and love. Many are one of a kind.
Salvatore and Amina of Studio Mucci Jewelry are busy bees. Studio Mucci Jewelry is their second etsy shop, the first being Studio Mucci. While their first shop is focused on whimsical frilly things that add color and sparkle to the lives of others, Studio Mucci Jewelry is adorning your wrist with something special....one of a kind, handmade jewelry 'from their hearts to your wrist'.
Though Papyrasuarus might be last on this little list, those of you who already know its proprietor Ashley, are aware that she'd never be at the 'bottom' of any list. Her infectious can-do, what-challenge-is-next, I'm-edgy-in-a-fun-sort-of- way attitude would prevent that from ever happening, full stop. Ashley is a crafting-fool and photographer, who has an affinity for book pages and tongue in cheek humour which is very apparent during any visit to Papyrusaurus visit. She's just began branching out into handmade jewelry. I, for one, can't wait to see what she does next.
Then there were two.....P & G, Pam and Gar, Bates Mercantile Co. I think you probably know a good bit about us and our shop, but in case you don't, here's a brief synopsis. I'm a all around creative....artist, illustrator, graphic designer, photographer. Gar, he's a concrete fool. Both of us love history and appreciate the good story you usually find behind vintage pieces. Together we offer archival prints of original illustrations, must-have vintage and beautiful concrete home and garden decor.
Thanks so much for giving me your ear. It's always nice to tell you guys about people I think you'll like too.
If you haven't entered the December Giveaway {for more than $200 in handmade loveliness}, there is still time. It ends at the end of the day today, so be quick and put your name in the hat.
Festival Of Trees
I've got to be honest with you people, I don't have nearly as many Christmas Tree submissions for tomorrow's Festival of Trees as I'd like. So I'm asking again.........will you please participate? All you have to do is send me a picture of your Christmas Tree. Simple simon, yes? Holiday spirit, yes? It won't be a Festival without all of your help. So send me your Christmas Tree pics....pretty please.
Have a fantastic Thursday. Ours is gray now, but we were lucky to have a very pretty sunrise this morning. It will have to do.
Ciao for now,
