Featured Artist - HeidisHandmades

I was recently lucky enough to find myself in a position to trade with HeidisHandmades. She liked one of my handbags and she makes chemical free bath and body products. See previous posts for the history on my search for things that won't kill us. I was able to get shampoos, soy candles, and body cream. First, I must say that my trade was a delightful experience. Secondly, I would like you to get to know Heidi! Over the next couple of days, I will include my reviews of her products.

1. Tell us a little bit about who you are and your life up to this point in time.
I'm a Marine wife and mother of 3 children living in FL. I took a soapmaking class in 2000 and have been playing around with soaps ever since, and even started making lotions and candles too. :)

2. Besides your fantasy creative life, what else are doing currently?
I spend a lot of time hanging out with our neighbor friends, we live in military housing and the neighborhood is very fun and close. We had a humdinger of a St. Patty's Day party the other day! :)

3. What do you offer in your Etsy Shop?
I offer soaps, creams, lotions, soy candles, bath scrubs, massage oils, bath teas, sachets and cat toys too!

4. Where do you create?
In my home

5. Where do you get your inspiration from?
The different seasons inspire me to create different kinds of soaps or creams. I like to get creative with colors and scents. I also have customers ask for certain things, and they give me great ideas too.

6. How did you learn how to do your craft?
I took a soapmaking class

7. How do you promote your wares?
My husband and children are my first priority, so I do not want to get too big with my business right now. I mainly promote and sell on etsy for now and once I can juggle a bigger business I will sell at local craft fairs and shows.

8. What has been the most important lesson you've learned since you started selling your own creations?
Everything needs to be perfect, customs will notice the smallest little things. Great customer service is very important to me.

9. Is there any advice you can give others who are just starting out?
Enjoy it, and have fun. Keep your head up when sales are down, you will get sales and repeat customers in time.

10.Do you have any favorite Etsy artists you'd like to promote here?
Little Beans makes wonderful wooden children's toys.
Fair Lady Faye makes beautiful custom bracelets.

You can visit Heidi's shop at HeidisHandmades. She will also take custom orders and is in the process of developing new products. So check back often as she gets things listed!