Chloe + Isabel Semi-Annual Sale + Clearance Summer 2017

Eeeekkkk!!!! The Chloe + Isabel semi-annual sale and clearance snuck up on me! I was over here trying to summer and boom, there it was. And in just one day, items are already flying off the shelf. I simply couldn't leave you, my lovely reader, in the dark! These are the best prices of the year.

As always, I have some lovely styled pictures for inspiration, recommendations from my jewelry box (lucky you, getting them at a deep discount!), and a little motivation...read on to the end!

Here are the must haves from this amazing sale:

1. The Hero Collection

I only recently discovered this cool, edgy, versatile collection and am not sure what took me so long! The semi-precious black stone and howlite combination is perfection. I think I was scared of the glass and tassel but they've grown on me. And the top layer of the convertible necklace is the only thing I brought with me camping and it went with every single top I brought.

Clearance is the perfect time to try something out of your comfort zone, if you're on the fence. Reminder: the tassels are removable!

Necklace on the left: Here
Right: Here
Matching bracelet (not shown): Here
Ring (not shown): Here

2. The Golden Lotus Statement Necklace

To me it's crazy to see pieces from the new collection marked down, but there it is. Don't be intimidated by this magnificent collar, it's much lighter and more delicate than you'd imagine. Maybe Golden Lotus isn't your style, but it really is a great time to buy statement pieces, the prices are unreal! But seriously, this one is awesome.

Necklace: Here
Matching wrap bracelet (not shown): Here

3. Anything Aventine

The only explanation I can come up with as to why they'd give away this statement necklace for $37 or it's super popular sister the convertible layered necklace for $35 is that everyone has one because it's stunning.

While I was writing this, the pendant sold out. I'm serious guys, if you see something you need, act fast.

Statement earrings (not shown): Here
Matching ring (not shown):  Here

4. A Convertible Necklace

Our signature style, and on sale! We do the hard work (perfectly match the layers), you wear it with everything! Each layer can be removed for a whole new look, and interchanges with layers from other pieces collections.

Medina Necklace: Here
Minaret (not shown): Here multi-color, Here in blue hues

5. Something Giftable

I gave this gorgeous pendant to my mom for Christmas, she wears it often. Green is something I've only recently discovered to be a neutral. It goes with so much, definitely capsule worthy.

We also have a candle for just $7, charms prices $4-11 (this is my fav), and even a few hair accessories like these, perfectly priced for your gift stash.

I could go on and on, but while I am, the styles are selling out! So I'll end on this note.

Need An Excuse to Shop the Sale?

If you're in my VIP group, you may have already heard about my fundraising efforts to help fund the Anderson's adoption of little Lian from China. This week only, I will donate 30% of purchase made through the Anderson Adoption Fundraiser Pop-Up. You can read more or skip shopping and donate Here.

Not only that, for every $50 spent in July, you'll be entered into a giveaway! Only catch, you have to join my VIP group to enter, but I promise you'll love it there anyway: Join Here.

Occasionally, one might see so many things they "need" that they start thinking about becoming a merchandiser for the discount. If this describes you, shoot me a quick email and let's talk. Find me at moderntypography@aol.com and read more on that subject Here.

Back to the sale, you can find it all Here! But for a very limited time. Be sure and stop back here and share what you love! And go!

Special Offer on Rubee Lane: Personalized Christmas Stocking Tags

Last chance to pick up these

Personalized Christmas Stocking Gift Tags

at 25% off!

Only at Rubee Lane

Last Day for Chalkboard Tags on Groop Dealz!

My chalkboard tags are selling like crazy!

This is a rock bottom price for me, you won't see this deal up again.

Today's the last day!

CLICK HERE

Goodbye Heartsy, Hello Rubee Lane!

Remember Heartsy?

At first I thought it was kind of awesome, 

until I started filling out an application to sell my goods there.

They wanted me to offer a huge discount on my products

AND take a percentage for themselves.

It didn't seem worth it to me.

Well, something amazing happened to me the other day.

I stumbled upon Rubee Lane.

www.rubeelane.com/

is an awesome new online site for small business owners such as myself.

Rubee Lane features discounted lovely handmade products and supplies

from shops like mine, many from Etsy.

It's easy to sign up to receive email alerts to these great deals.

These aren't your typical long, complicated emails and promotions.

1. Simply click on the email for the discounted product you want.

2. Choose from color/size options.

3. Checkout.

It's just like Etsy (addicting), with bargain prices!

Today through Thursday you'll find my chalkboard tags

at a discounted price.

Buy it in my shop here

Don't forget to tell your friends about Rubee Lane!

Meet the Artist and Giveaway: Kirsten from Blue Couch Designs

I'm lovin' this giveaway madness, aren't you?

You are going to LOVE this one.

Kirsten over at Blue Couch Designs

has graciously agreed to give one lucky winner

a $15 Gift Certificate to her shop!

What will you spend it on? Maybe these fun little earrings?

Buy it here

Kirsten sent me a couple of things for review, a lovely red crocheted hat like this one:

Buy it here

and a set of floral button hair pins. 

Buy it here

Aren't they lovely?

The hat is SUPER soft and luxurious, and the pins are very well made.

I can't wait to wear them!

I'll be showing you more items from Blue Couch Designs 

as we find out more about the talented artist behind the designs.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.

A: I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, but skipped town the day after I graduated high school in order to pursue my life adventure. After a two-year detour in Colorado, I made my way to Austin, Texas where the friendly atmosphere, culture and my lovely Austin family number as some of the many reasons I am fortunate to live here still.

I keep myself busy as a full-time student double majoring in English and Psychology, working part-time for the National Dating Abuse Helpline, and running my shop while trying my hand at local craft shows. When I grow up I want to be a writer, a counselor, a full-time crafter, or a librarian.

Buy it here

Q: How did you get started as an artist?

A: My mother and grandmother both sew, and my other grandmother knits, which is where I’m sure I got it from! When I was a kid, I always preferred to sew by hand. I made small, scraggly quilts out of fabric scraps that I tried to force our cats to sleep on.

When I started college, I tried many hobbies in order to find something to soothe the nerves that began to react to juggling several part-time jobs, a full-time course load and the ill effect of a poor economy. I taught myself how to crochet, and instantly fell in love – the meditative quality to it was just what the doctor ordered.. I began to spend more and more time on it before I even realized what I was doing, and soon enough, I began my own business. 

Buy it here

Q: What inspires your work?

A: I began by making things that I wanted to wear, but couldn’t seem to find anywhere. It was a revelation to me to learn the skills to simply create what I wanted. As I continued to work, I fell in love with accessories that told a story – more specifically, the story of the crafty, inspired individual who would wear them. I began making button earrings and hair pins from the supplies I’d accumulated, and adored wearing them myself, so decided to share them with others. Beyond that, I continue to gain inspiration from looking at all of those accessories I’ve looked at and said to myself “I WISH it did this…”

Q: Why Etsy?

A: A dear friend, Betsy Schairer, (of http://betsyschairer.4ormat.com/) started out her creative career selling her original artwork and modified vintage clothing on Etsy several years before I gave it a try. I was such a fan of the concept and of her work, that I was a patron of her shop nearly as long as she ran it.

I not only adore buying handmade, I also love how accessible and appealing Etsy makes it. Etsy has grown in popularity to such a degree since I first became aware of it that it was a no-brainer decision for me when it came time to choose what online storefront to use. The terms they set for their artists are so reasonable!

Buy it here

Q: You've been very successful in a relatively short period of time. Do you have any advice for new shop owners?

A: It’s important to develop a cohesive focus before opening up shop – thinking about branding, who your audience is, and how to reach that audience are all good questions to ask yourself before you start. “The Handmade Marketplace” by Kari Chapin is a great book to read that covers those topics at length, with great anecdotes from successful artists.

Also, reach out and see what local resources you have! Chances are there is someone in your area that’s been successful doing the very same thing. I joined the Austin Craft Riot team (www.austincraftriot.com) nearly as soon as I went into business, and I am infinitely grateful that I did. Most cities have some sort of Etsy team, or some other professional organization that you can join to grow and promote your business.

Buy it here

Q: What future plans do you have for your shop/work?

A: I am always trying to push the envelope of what I can produce, and attempting new designs. I have a lot of ideas – I’d like to become more successful at local shows, and perhaps carry my work into the storefront retail world. I’m considering opening different shops for different lines of work all under the Blue Couch Designs banner. I’m also considering a curated shop containing items all donated by artists to raise money for charities in need. Really, I plan on simply moving forward in every way that I can, in the hopes that hard work and dedication continues to open doors. 

Q: Anything else you'd like us to know?

A: I’d really like a cat. I got a goodie bag from a local craft show I participated in, and there was a cat toy in the bag. I thought maybe it was a sign. So, maybe if I put this thought out there into the universe, it'll happen!

Buy it here

Q: Just for fun, what are a few of your favorite shops on Etsy?

A: I’ll give you three ---

I absolutely adore the Ukranian embroidery that Ms. Natalka of Skrynka makes. I purchased one of her necklaces last summer, and I wear it all the time.

I have also long been fascinated with embroidery hoop and cross-stitch art – it was, in fact, the first serious foray into crafting that I made as an adult, with less than satisfactory results. But why even try when there are amazing people out there like Moxie Doll, already doing a bang-up job?

I wouldn’t have made it as far as I have without the help and my best friend and best boo, Faith, and all of her encouragement. She also has an adorable shop, Oh Thanks that you should all go check out immediately.

--- okay I said three, so I lied. You should also go check out the team page for Austin Craft Riot. There are a multitude of shops there full of amazing items that would be just perfect for all of your holiday shopping needs! 

Kirsten set up 2 special coupon codes just for my blog readers!

1. Make a purchase between Friday November 25 and Sunday November 27 

with the coupon code BLACKFRIDAY11 to receive 40% off your total order.

2. Make a purchase by December 15 

with coupon code HOLIDAYMADESS for 25% off your total order.

BONUS:

3. Mention that you heard about Blue Couch Designs from Modern Typography

 in the "Note to Seller" field,  and Kirsten will slip a free gift into your package!

How to Enter the Giveaway:

1. Follow this blog (Mandatory)

and leave a comment here saying you did.

2. Like BCD on Facebook

and Invite 10 or more friends to like BCD, too

and leave a separate comment here saying you did.

4. Heart BCD on Etsy

and leave a separate comment here saying you did.

5. Favorite an item from BCD on Etsy

and leave a separate comment here saying you did.

6. Follow BCD on Twitter

and leave a separate comment here saying you did.

Make sure to bookmark my giveaways page if you haven't already, 

and READ THE FINE PRINT

Fine print:

Only 6 entries per household please
Giveaway ends November 30th at midnight PST
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Entries will be validated
Winner will be announced here
Winner will have 3 days to contact me, 

after which a new winner will be chosen

Must be 18 years of age or older to enter

Recently I have had to choose a second winner for quite a few giveaways 

due to lack of an email response from my winners. 

If you really want to win, check your SPAM folders often, or better yet 

add moderntypography@aol.com to your address book. Good luck!

Meet the Artist and Giveaway: Smile Lifestyle

I think you'll find the wait was well worth it

on this long line of giveaways.

Up next is Smile Lifestyle.

One lucky winner will receive one fabulous set of Letterpress Animal Notecards!

Buy it here

Edmarie and Elmarie sent me a lovely set alongside the giveaway set and I can honestly say

they are even more charming in person than they are in the pictures!

I can't wait to send one off, such unique little messages and creatures.

I think it'd be just the thing to brighten anyone's day :)

If you haven't yet visited Smile Lifestyle, 

be sure to head over and see all of the lovely cards they have to offer. 

I'll be showing you a few as we get to know our sponsor.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.
A: We are identical twin sisters residing in Aurora, Il, about 25 miles west of Chicago. Art and Design have always been a passion that we've shared. I am more of a fine artist and my sister is a graphic designer. We knew we've always wanted to take our work to the next level. In the Fall of 2010, we finally launched our
first paper goods line that combined our styles.

Buy it here

Q: What's it like working together? Who does what as far as the creative process and running the business?
A: Working together is probably the easiest thing that we do. We have a really close relationship. And, in a literal sense, so close that we just live a couple of minutes away from each other. It makes it convenient for us to get together, whether it may be a brainstorming session or a weekend of screen printing. As far as our creative process goes, we basically start off with a brainstorm/intake meeting discussing our next collection. Then, individually, we interpret ideas appropriate to our own style. I design most of our illustrative collections, while my sister designs our patterned collection. We're both very involve in the production after designs
are finalized. In the business side of things, my sister handles most of the paper work and finance, while I manage a lot of the marketing.

Buy it here

Q: I love the "punny" greeting cards, they are very unique. How did this idea come about?
A: When we designed our first patterned collection, we didn't know it would become our signature line. We both love pattern and the shapes it creates around white space. It's almost elegant and hypnotizing when you stare at it. Our 'punny' sayings are the added surprise to break that 'hypnosis' and keep you smiling. We're  grateful for the feedback we've been getting from our customers and we'll keep these 'punny' cards coming.

Q: What is your most popular design?
A: The most popular design that we have is one of the Smile Signature line, "Love you like no otter". This card has been our best seller and have been featured on Etsy faves.

Buy it here

Q: Any new designs in the works?
A: We are super busy preparing our Holiday collection, which we can’t wait to debut in the coming weeks. We will be featuring more hand illustrated designs that are quirky, colorful, and fun. In addition, we also added on to the Smile Signature line.

Buy it here

Q: Tell us a little about the events you are participating coming up soon. Will these be your first shows? 
A: In addition to our Holiday collection, we are also debuting new collections at two big shows. We just finished up The DIY Trunk Show. Up next is the One of A Kind Show in Chicago, which has an Etsy pavilion. It will be held from Dec. 1-4 at the Merchandise Mart. We are ecstatic to take part and can’t wait to showcase the new collections that we have been working on. 

Buy it here

Q: Just for fun, what are your favorite Etsy stores to window shop? 
A: Edmarie- I am a big fan of Clare Elsaesser’s tastes orangey. I think that she’s such a brilliant artist. Her subject matters are just random moments in life, but she captures them in a way that makes them such beautiful moments.

Ready to Shop? I thought so!

The gals at smilelifestyle would like to offer my readers 

an exclusive coupon code. Just enter Modern20 at checkout to receive 20% off your entire holiday purchase of $20 or more.  

How to Enter the Giveaway:

1. Follow this blog (Mandatory)

and leave a comment here saying you did.

2. Like smilelifestyle on Facebook

and leave a separate comment here saying you did.

3. Follow smilelifestyle on twitter

and leave a separate comment here saying you do.
Make sure to bookmark my giveaways page if you haven't already, 

and READ THE FINE PRINT

Fine print:

Only 3 entries per household please
Giveaway ends November 29th at midnight PST
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Entries will be validated
Winner will be announced here
Winner will have 3 days to contact me, 

after which a new winner will be chosen

Must be 18 years of age or older to enter

Recently I have had to choose a second winner for quite a few giveaways 

due to lack of an email response from my winners. 

If you really want to win, check your SPAM folders often, or better yet 

add moderntypography@aol.com to your address book. Good luck!

Meet the Artist and Giveaway: Kayla from LetterKay

Thank you all for waiting so patiently for the next giveaway.

I think you'll find it was worth the wait!

This time I've teamed up with Kayla over at LetterKay

who has graciously agreed to send one lucky reader 

one of these fantastic Made with Love stamps!

Buy it here

If you haven't yet, head over and check out Kayla's shop. 

There you'll find an assortment of hand-carved rubber stamps as well as some fun vintage finds. 

The prices are unbelievable, 

AND she does custom stamps, too!

In fact, Kayla created this fun little robot using one of my designs!

 I can't stop smiling whenever I use it, 

I can't believe my own design has "come to life" in a whole new way.

Buy it here

In addition to hand carved stamps, Kayla's shop is also full of fun vintage finds.
Craft supplies and vintage finds, all in one place?! 
It's like I've died and gone to heaven :)

Let's get to know a little more about Kayla and here shop. 

I'll be sure to give you a sampling of her fun finds along the way:

Q: Tell us a little about yourself.

A: Well, I’m just a girl who loves to make things! I live in a fairly small city where I spend my time creating and treasure hunting when I am not working. I like to do a little bit of everything. I do graphic design, stamps for etsy, search for cool vintage items, face paint, give art lessons, etc. The list is pretty long, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love staying busy and love having a variety of things to do! 

Buy it here

Q: You've got what they call "raw" natural talent. How did you get started as an artist? 

A: I have always loved creating. When I was little, my favorite “toys” were tissue paper and glue. With those two things, the possibilities were endless. During high school I began to focus more on the arts and decided to major in Studio Art. I just recently graduated and still love making things, whether crafts or fine art.

Buy it here

Q: When did you come up with the idea of carving your own stamps? Where did you learn this craft?

A: I can’t remember the project I needed a stamp for, but I know I was making something for one of my friends or family members and I decided to make my own design for it. I first learned how to carve a wood/linoleum block in school and the same techniques apply to carving rubber stamps. I have loved it ever since.

Q: Hand carved stamps have become VERY popular on Etsy. How do you set yourself apart from other sellers, what makes your work unique?

A: Hand carved stamps have gotten more popular and it is a bit surprising in some ways. I feel that designing my own unique stamp designs is important. I also feel that my stamps feel and look natural – a look people are beginning to appreciate more. Other than that, I just try to work hard and make as many stamps as I can J

Buy it here

Q: I love your packaging. Where did you come up with this great idea?

A: This is terrible, but I can’t really remember how I got the idea. Yikes, I need to work on my memory. I believe I started searching first for organza bags, but then I kept researching and found the muslin bags which I feel has a much more natural look which really compliments the stamps. I love giving the customer a custom hand-stamped bag for their special stamp.

Q: Do you sell your stamps anywhere beside Etsy? 

A: I have tried selling my stamps on other sites similar to Etsy, but Etsy has proved to be the best place so far. It is also hard to keep up with several different sites. You can sell more if you focus on one online venue. However, I have sent stamps for consignment to a few local shops.


Q: What stamp or design holds the most personal meaning to you and/or which stamp in your shop is your favorite? Which is the most popular?

A: Hmm…that’s a tough question. I am really like the faux wax seal stamps that I have recently designed. I just love dressing up a simple letter or envelope! The most popular stamp is definitely the Custom Logo Stamp.

Buy it here

Q: Any new designs in the works?

A: Yes! There are many new designs brewing around in my head! I am trying to come up with more custom designs. People love custom, it means more to them or the person that they are giving it to. Any ideas for things you’d like to see would also be greatly appreciated. After all, I am not just designing for me.

Q: You've been very successful in a relatively short period of time. Any advice for new sellers looking to increase their sales?

A: Putting the time into it is the biggest thing for me. If you want your Etsy shop to be successful, you have to put the time into it. It really is like a second job. I come home from my day job and then work on Etsy orders or coming up with new ideas. I’ve also made some sales by joining teams I was interested in and meeting people. Also, tell your friends about it! Local sales are great!

Buy it here

Q: Just for fun, what is you're favorite treasury feature?
A: I am not sure I really have a favorite. I think they are all great! The vintage treasuries are very fun because you learn a little about something each time, like this treasury. 

Kayla would like to offer my blog readers an exclusive coupon code!

Use the coupon code MODERN15 at checkout for 15% off your purchase 

now until the end of October. This can be used on ANY item J 

Have fun shopping and please let Kayla know if you have any questions.


When you're done shopping at n   LetterKay or ordering your custom stamp,
be sure to head on back and enter the giveaway!

How to Enter the Giveaway:

1. Follow this blog (Mandatory)

and leave a comment here saying you did.

2. Heart LetterKay on Etsy or an item from her shop

and leave a separate comment here about your favorite item.

3. "Like" LetterKay on Facebook and let her know I sent you

and leave a separate comment here about it.

Make sure to bookmark my giveaways page if you haven't already, 
and READ THE FINE PRINT

Fine Print:

Only 3 entries per household please
Giveaway ends November 7th at midnight PST
Winner will be chosen by random.org
Entries will be validated
Winner will be announced here
Winner will have 3 days to contact me, 

after which a new winner will be chosen

Must be 18 years of age or older to enter

Recently I have had to choose a second winner for quite a fewgiveaways 

due to lack of an email response from my winners. 

If you really want to win, check your SPAM folders often, or better yet 

add moderntypography@aol.com to your address book. Good luck!