My Latest Obsession: Stella & Dot

The cat's out of the bag, I'm officially an independent Stella & Dot stylist!

In case you missed my last blog post, Chloe + Isabel announced the closing of it's doors. It took me a little time to move on and jump in to the next thing, but one day of friend of mine said, "Melanie, you've just got to do it, what are you waiting for?" That same day I started proudly talking about my new love and I'm now 100% fully immersed in Stella & Dot. I'm not gonna lie, I am completely obsessed! Come see why:

The Jewelry

I mean I'm a jewelry girl, are you a jewelry girl? I come from a long line of jewelry loving people. Even my Daddy wore jewelry. I love how eclectic Stella & Dot jewelry is. They've got all my moods covered from casual chic Monday to ride or die Saturday. My first head over heels piece so far is this rose gold necklace called "Fleur", gasp! I can't get over the $59 price tag, what a steal!

Apparel, Accessories, Handbags + More

I'd be happy with just the jewelry. But when you find a company with the style you're going for and then realize they've got your whole look covered, your heart skips a beat. Scroll back through my blog and you'll see this collaboration was meant to be.

9 out of 10 people I tell I'm moving to Stella & Dot say, "I love their handbags!" Naturally, I had to see for myself. I picked up the gorgeous "Crisscross Hobo" from the sale section. It's so perfect! Flat bottom, comfortable strap, pocket inside, pocket outside, neutral. You need this!

PS The glasses are S&D, too! Very lightweight, comfortable and stylish.

Value

Disclaimer: Almost 40 year old me is still somewhat stuck in the 90s. Remember when gas was 99 cents a gallon? Sometimes I still think I can run to JcPenny and find the perfect pair of earrings for my mom for $10. Those were the days, but let's get real! We were all shrouded in polyester and our jewelry looked like Barbies. My point is times have changed, thankfully! 2019 me wants ethically sourced, timeless jewelry that is not mass produced, and you get what you pay for. I think the value at Stella & Dot is exceptional given our in house, unique designs.

Speaking of value, our engravables are top notch and very reasonably priced. Hurry up and get this "Signature Engravable Hexagon Necklace" before it sells out like it's rose gold counterpart. It's super luxe. I was pleasantly surprised it was engraved and shipped the next day!

Value Added

There's so much more to it than a great product. To get back the "why" I do this, ultimately I value my time with family above all else. It's incredibly refreshing to find a company that empowers me to support my family by providing all that I need to successfully run a business from home. I realize a lot of women reading this are thinking about branching out into the world of entrepreneurship, but it's really quite scary. Why not let Stella & Dot assume some of that risk for you?

What will that mean for those of you coming along as customers? You can support my small business, but have all the benefits of shopping a stable, reputable, successful brand. I know you'll enjoy the fast and furious shipping and ease of returns and replacements. Did I mention killer host rewards and Style Club offers? We are going to have so much fun.

Community

And it IS fun! Is there anything better than shopping with friends? In my 3 years with Chloe + Isabel I learned that what keeps you going, gives meaning to what you do is not what you do but who you do it with. I am so happy I've found a new home in Stella & Dot.

Won't you come along with me? It just wouldn't be the same without you! Come check out my new Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Melanies-Style-Lounge-106340404041143/

Please use it as a jumping off point to shop, find my VIP community, reach out to me and learn more about Stella & Dot.

See you there!

Goodbye C+I - The End of an Era

On July 1, 2019 executive chairwoman Connie Tang announced the closure of Chloe + Isabel July 31, 2019 to it's community of merchandisers. The news came as a shock to our community. While the company put forth great effort towards growth and development, this nearly 8 year old jewelry empire simply could not achieve the trajectory necessary to withstand these hard economic times.

To say I will miss Chloe + Isabel is an understatement. When I began in May of 2016 I could not have imagined how far this journey would take me. I traveled to Montreal, Paris! But the real joy has been in the everyday conversations, sharing of ideas and inspiration with like minded women, and making of lifelong friends. I will treasure these jewels for a lifetime!

Be sure to shop your C+I wishlist before it's too late! Whether you've had your eye on the most recent Riviera Maya collection or have a mile long list you've created over the years, take advantage of the markdowns.

And please know that every purchase, every word of encouragement, every time you volunteered to host, to help, all of the shared pictures, every gesture big or small means more to me than words can say. This might be goodbye to C+I but I hope you'll follow me to the next adventure! It just wouldn't be the same without you.

Etsy Bill Changes Make Payments Easier Than Ever

Starting October 2018 Etsy rolled out a new bill pay system and I like it! I've never been a big fan of autopay when it comes to bill pay so every weekend I would make a payment to my bill for current fees straight from my payment account (funds available before deposit). However, often times I'd forget and either have to wait until more funds were available or pay with my credit card. The old system made no sense to me. Why pay me first then take fees later? I was so happy to see listing fees, taxes, transaction fees and shipping fees withdrawn prior to deposit.

I love the new layout, too! It's easier than ever to see what it costs me to list and sell my items on Etsy.

The happiness continues with new articles for sellers on holiday trends and getting found in search. These type of articles have inspired some of my best selling items of all time! Here are my latest inventions post research.

As you can see, Etsy continues to be a steady source of income for my family. If you're interested in learning more about Etsy success, join me in my networking group "Modern Marketing" on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ModernMarketingPage/

When your Creative Outlet Becomes a Source of Income

Raise your hand if you're a bit of a nerd. Most people don't realize I'm a dietitian! I worked in healthcare for over 10 years, but you won't find it on my resume. In fact, you won't find my resume. When baby #4 came along, I left the traditional working world. 

Since, I've done several gigs trying to find the perfect balance between caring for and providing for my family. Initially I panicked and took a position at Stitch Fix working as a stylist from home. Sounds like a dream, right? One step forward, two steps back. I was still letting someone else spend my time.

Now I'm running my own Etsy shop and calling all the shots. Before I left my medical career, I'd created Modern Typography as a creative outlet. I was casually listing items for sale, and really never thought it would become anything. When I quit my job I was able to devote more time to developing it. I'm happy to say it's become a constant stream of income for my family.

This reminds me of something I recently heard at a conference.

"There is no downside to a side hustle. There are only benefits to building more than one source of income. A side hustle is the new job security." Forbes.

The number one objection I hear when I suggest Etsy as a source of income is "I'm not creative". First of all, I believe everyone has creative talent, some haven't developed it, others haven't pursued it. Second, not all work on Etsy is creative! Folks sell supplies, antiques, party supplies (store bought items with slight modifications) and much more. There's unlimited potential on Amazon handmade, as well.

The second objection I hear is "Etsy charges fees". It's 20 cents to list an item folks, 5 for a dollar. If you need a spot, I've got you. Etsy takes 5% IF your item sells and the customer pays shipping. Normally I would say you have to spend money to make money but that's hardly the case here. You can fill an Etsy shop with 100 listings (the same items listed several times) for $20. If you sell a blanket for $30 that cost you $5 to make, you've started to turn a profit.

In addition to running my Etsy business, I also contract myself out to Chloe + Isabel and Discovery Toys. Yes, yes, these are network marketing companies, you caught me! But technology has made it possible for me to use my skills to share links, pictures, promotional materials and incentives online and meet new friends and customers. I use my blog, Pinterest, Instagram and Facebook accounts to share the products I love with people who have similar interests. I provide reviews, insight into how to get  the most out of your purchase, customer service, and my customers appreciate me and I them. 

I have to add, I've made more meaningful friendships in just two years doing this than I have in all my years of working anywhere else. It's so much more than a source of income.

Maybe you're reading this and wondering if it's time for a change. I posted this the other day, maybe it will resonate with you. The world needs more women like you. You are uniquely talented and brilliant by God's design and have something wonderful to offer.

Are you giving the best of yourself, your talents, your skills to something or someone that doesn't serve you or your family? Maybe it's time to make a change.

I'll leave you with this. I once went job hunting. Hired myself. Never looked back. 

The $1 Kit is Back!

Can ya'll believe it's June? A new month means a fresh new start. Summer? Yes, please!

For Chloe + Isabel, a new month means new sales and promotions, new opportunities, and new perks! This month we are offering our starter kit for just $1. That's less than the cost of your morning latte.

 

Another great perk for joining this month is a free ticket SOAR! This is our annual convention. This year it's being held in Las Vegas in July. This will be my first one and I'm really excited about it. I had the pleasure of meeting a ton of other C+I merchies in Montreal and Paris on incentives trips and you won't find an opportunity like this anywhere else. Our jewelry is more beautiful than ever, our community is growing, and the future is bright!

Of course, there were a few requirements for both the $1 kit and the free SOAR ticket but I think they are kind of laughable. We seriously have THE most ridiculously easy qualifications for everything. You simply have to earn $250 in sales by June 30th. I mean, that's like selling 3 of these rings!

Let me share a few more quick math facts while we are on the subject of money:

For just $1 you get over $700 worth of free jewelry in your starter kit.  Click here to see it.

On average, merchandisers get 1 sale for every 30 emails sent. We charge $0 for the use of our website. A typical online boutique order is $75. Most merchandisers reach $1000 in sales when they hold their first Pop-Up.

We offer a minimum of 25% commission on sales, bumped up to 30% when you reach $800 PLUS $50 in jewelry credit for every $500 in sales! Did I mention the initial 50% discount? 30% everyday? 

So lets say you join today. You spend $1 (plus shipping). You whip up some deviled eggs on some convenient day for you. You send out email/facebook invites. Next thing you know you've made $350 PLUS a free SOAR ticket PLUS $700 worth of jewelry to play with PLUS additional jewelry credit for whatever you want. All for giving it a shot, $1, and the price of a dozen eggs.

I mean, maybe deviled eggs aren't your thing. Or free stuff, I don't know. But if they are, and you do, why not give it a try?

If you're anything like me, it's going to take a lot more than math and pretty pictures. Need more info? Browse the blog starting with the OG post, or better yet, join this information group I've created on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheChloeandIsabelOpportunity/

Disclaimer: This is a brand new group so bear with me if you're stumbling on this blog post before I get to organizing it. I hope to include all the facts you'll need to help you decide if this opportunity is right for you. 

If you've been mulling it over for awhile and waiting for the perfect financial opportunity to join, click here to join today!

I can't wait to get to know you, find out your "why", and share my love for this company and all it's done for me and my family with you. Better yet, I can't wait to meet you in Vegas! I'll probably be wearing this.

Until then, have a splendid day!

Montreal in the Fall and Other Things I Love about being a Chloe + Isabel Merchandiser

In truth, it's hard to find the time or motivation to write a blog post anymore so you've got to figure I have something important to say. This week Chloe + Isabel announced our next merchandiser incentive trip and I simply can't keep my mouth shut!

I thought when I got back from Montreal I'd jump right on here and tell you about how magical it was, and it was magical. But then life happened. But here I am with the details of the next trip thinking, can this really be true? How did this happen?

So naturally, to explain my excitement, I have to tell you about my first incentive trip. It was also my first time outside the US, and so many other firsts. I genuinely felt like a VIP, in my boutique hotel room in the heart of this romantic city with invitations to fancy dinner parties.

 

The company covered everything from travel costs to breakfast. I explored the cobble stone lined streets with my CandI sisters.

We bonded over Christmas shopping, architecture, jazz, and food.

Lots and lots of food. And yes, I had my first poutine and smoked meat sandwich!

I remember hearing about this opportunity and thinking, this is completely unattainable, surely they will give us outrageous goals to reach to earn it. Next thing I knew, I was planning baby sitters and packing my bags. I spent 4 days relaxing, building friendships, pampering myself and got my first taste of international travel.

While we were there, they hinted at Paris, France and sure enough we'll be traveling to April in 2018! And when I say "we" I mean, there's no way I'm missing out! This time we are going for 7 days, staying in another fancy hotel, visiting Monet's garden, The Louvre, and having dinner at Moulin Rouge!

So why do I think this is relevant to you? I figure whether you are a customer, friend, fellow Etsy seller, or you found me in your search for work from home income, Paris is always a good idea.

When I joined Chloe + Isabel, one thing that really struck me was this little blurb I read on a gal's website (the gal who invited me to C+I). It was her "why", why she joined C+I. She said she wanted to travel more. This awoke something inside me, wanderlust.

While planning for the trip a friend warned me, once you get a taste you'll just want more. Sitting atop the William Gray Hotel watching one of the most beautiful sunsets I've ever seen, she couldn't be more right.

Of course, it's hard work to get there. But you'll have a big supporter --> me! I've been in your shoes, I asked all those questions, and then I took the leap. I've reached every goal I've set, provided for my family, and grown in ways I wasn't expecting at all.

No doubt you have questions. Of course, I can't post all the secret sauce ingredients to how I got there here, but I'd love to talk with you one on one. Find me on Facebook or email me and let's see if this is something you can do alongside your handmade business or do for fun on the weekends.

One thing I don't mind posting, our amazing kit.

As if that weren't ridiculous enough, the kit currently includes this booster: 

***Update 11/10/17 for this month only, if I send you an invitation via email to join and you accept, both you and I receive an additional $150 in jewelry credit!***

I've created a boomerang so you can see previous merchandiser kits, the costs, fees (none!) and all that jazz. Start here and when you get back, send me a message on Facebook.

What have you got to lose? There's really so much to gain!

Let's wander, together. Meet me in Paris.

What's in the Kit: The Chloe + Isabel Merchandiser Starter Kit Fall 2017

If you've been following my blog for years, you may know me as an Etsy shop owner and handmade advocate. Let's be honest, few people have the luxury of surviving exclusively on this type of income. I'm also a merchandiser with Chloe + Isabel. If you've stumbled upon this post, you may be considering becoming a Chloe + Isabel Merchandiser. Either way, this post is for you.

I can't wait to spill the beans on the must fun job I've had to date. I'll take you through the most commonly asked questions Chloe + Isabel jewelry lovers have when considering this unique opportunity. You may have come across the first article I wrote on the subject before reading this. This post includes updates and special promotions for September 2017. For the latest kit, click here.

Let's begin with the Q&A:

1. What's in the Kit?

There's an easy one, here you go!

(Newest here: https://moderntypography.blogspot.com/2018/05/the-pinnacle-of-network-marketing-paris.html)

You'll noticed it's changed a little since I joined. They still include a carrying case, catalogs, and order forms to get you started. Also, a variety of metals, mix of classic and modern designs, our signature wrap bracelets and plenty of convertible pieces (a feature that is sure to win over new clients).

The overall value of the kit is phenomenal, $800 worth of jewelry for just $175 (plus materials). But wait....there's more! This month only Chloe + Isabel is offering new merchandisers additional perks for joining, 6 pieces from the fall 2017 collection!

With the bonus kit included, the retail value is ~$1200! I wish my kit came with all this goodness!

2. Does Chloe + Isabel have a sales quota?

We most certainly do but you have 6 months to meet it, and it's $600. You'll accomplish this with your first party, I guarantee it. But I'm sure you'll see in time that this number more than reasonable. (This number was $100 in 6 months previously, this post had an update)

At this point you're probably thinking to yourself, it seems to good to be true. I was skeptical. But I assure you, the risk here is minimal. For me personally, I didn't consider it any risk at all, given I love the jewelry. There are absolutely no hidden fees or expectations.

3. What kind of discount do merchandisers receive?

Perhaps you are a kit napper, as they say. You want the goods! We offer a 30% discount to merchandisers at all times. When new items are released and during the first 30 days after you join, merchandisers receive 50% off!

4. Talk to me about commission.

All of our merchandisers start out at 25% commission. This pretty standard across brands. Merchandisers who reach sales goals can earn as much as 40% commission. Commission is paid monthly, or bi-monthly during special promotions, via direct deposit. Merchandisers are responsible for paying income tax as applicable.

In addition to commission, there are incentives for hitting milestones and goals. These vary from cash to free jewelry. Read on to hear about a special incentive I earned.

5. Is the website provided for sales and training easy to manage?

Absolutely. You'll receive your own website for sales with a unique link at no cost to you. The academy online offers a variety of tools to learn and grow your business. Additionally, you'll be assigned to a team where you'll receive support and encouragement. Our Facebook community is my favorite of all of the resources we have. You have someone at your fingertips 24 hours a day to answer questions, give advice and share ideas with.

6. Why C+I?

Since joining C+I, I've learned a lot about what sets our company apart from the rest. Our product is high quality, made to last. It's hypoallergenic and nickel free. Women can shop your boutique confidently, knowing that each piece is thoughtfully and carefully made. Sometimes the unexpected happens and beloved pieces break or arrive flawed. Our lifetime guarantee protects our customers from buyers remorse in any and all circumstances. Our customer service is top notch. Customers also love having a personal shopper, unique styles, a constantly rotating catalog and styling ideas.

Our merchandiser community is buzzing with the phrase "best kept secret" and I've found this to be true. With just 6 years under our belt, our brand is often a pleasant surprise to new clients. Our product is not sold in retail stores or on other websites. Our customers love to parade their exclusive jewelry around the office, on the town and out and about.

At this point the only question you might be asking is, why not? If you are wondering about the investment of time or energy, just know that our community of merchandisers is women from all walks of life. The beauty of this opportunity is that your experience will be as unique as you are.

Ultimately, I decided the opportunity was just that - an opportunity! An opportunity to learn and grow, provide for my family and do something fun! It has done all of those things, and so much more.

About a year ago, a friend of mine in direct sales posted a picture of a car people had earned working for their brand. I thought, that's outrageous, it's just a bunch of smoke in mirrors. Cut to September 2017, I earned a trip to Montreal. That's right, Chloe + Isabel is paying for me to go on vacation and I couldn't be more excited! If you're following me on Pinterest, you may have recently seen an influx of pins with travel ideas for this magical destination.

I'm not suggesting everyone who joins will achieve this, but it's definitely a real possibility. Chloe + Isabel sent me the beautiful leather passport holder in the picture above, underneath the Sunlit Savannah necklace. For the first time in my life, I feel like I'm really going somewhere.

Thanks for stopping by. Feel free to comment publicly or anonymously with questions. Even better, let's talk, online or in person (if you are in Orange County, CA) and answer any questions you might have. You can find me on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ChloeandIsabelInsideScoopVIP/

Last, I'll leave you with this thought. What is life, but one grand adventure? Read on here.

My First Year in Direct Sales

Do you think anyone ever said as a kid, "When I grow up I want to work in direct sales!"? Probably not. In fact, even most adults turn their nose at the idea of network marketing. There's still this stigma out there about merchandising. Truly, before I became a stylist with Chloe + Isabel, I believed there must be a catch. I anticipated fees, quotas, team building, awkward social interactions and didn't anticipate real income. I was a typical "kit napper" as we say in the industry. I bought the Chloe + Isabel starter kit just for the jewelry, but not before asking a ton of questions. Ultimately, I decided I had nothing to lose. I'm so glad I took the leap!

While I didn't really intend for this to become an episode of myth busters, I do want to start out by saying SOME of the rumors are true:

We do work in teams. We sell a product we love, and our personal success is a direct result of the time and effort put into selling a well made product, not the dream. Teams are a place of encouragement, inspiration and celebration. I do benefit from inviting others to join, but I seldom do it. The company encourages us to send invitations to women with similar goals and interests, but doesn't every company?

We have quotas...$600 in sales in 6 months! Let's call that a personal order, not a quota.

We have parties! No quotas there. In one year I've had one in home party and participated in 3 vendor events. I didn't care for either format. I happen to love hosting Facebook parties so this has been the avenue for me. Initially I was shooting for 4+ a month but this became overwhelming. Now I'm hosting approximately 2-3 a month and this allows me time to plan and give each party and co-host the attention they deserve. By hosting online, I can avoid spending money on displays, refreshments and transportation. No house cleaning needed. This picture makes me laugh. What's a mom's night out with kids there?!

We have catalogs! This is not your Mamas Avon catalog. It's a big, juicy, modern lookbook in both print and digital/interactive format. Click here to see for yourself.

However, most of the rumors are just that. I think the biggest misconception/fear is that we will invest more than we make. I can attest, real money is to be made here.

But what kind of money you ask? The kind of money that's paid for food for a family of 6 in Orange County, California for a year. Some months the kind of money that pays for that plus gas, utilities, Christmas presents, band booster donations, soccer fees & uniforms, car parts, date nights, shoes, more shoes (I'm talking about kid's shoes by the way), AWANA store donations, and adoption donations. I've paid off a big portion of debt, too.

Best part? This opportunity has allowed me to be home with my kids.

Friday marks my 1 year Candi Anniversary! Come celebrate with me in my Facebook VIP group! I just might be having a giveaway (winky face). I promise, it's a fun and welcoming group with styling ideas, updates about sales & promotions, and many, many laughs.

Be sure and sign up for blog emails, too. I hope to share more about why I chose C+I, how to avoid overspending and focus on a profit if you're in sales, tips & tricks for online parties, and more about direct sales. I also plan to share more about my Etsy shop.

If you're considering taking a leap all your own, you can click here for more info. Won't you message me first? I'd love to get you set up for success and answer any lingering questions you might have: https://www.facebook.com/ChloeandIsabelMelanieRhoades/

Still have questions? Follow this link to a more recent post about what's in the merchandiser kit.


Just feel like shopping? That's welcome, too! Follow my link to shop anytime, day or night.

This blog contains my affiliate link. All opinions are my own. I don't recommend anything I don't love!