Supporting local business.

Now, I know that I've taken the time before to get on my soapbox about supporting local businesses & freelance artists like myself, but I'd like to take a step back up onto that soapbox once more (just as a gentle reminder ;)).

I've been lucky enough to be hired as a full-time teacher, but I still photograph on the side, a) because I love doing it, and b) because it's nice to pick up some extra cash to put towards my hobby. In the past few weeks, however, I've acquired two new beautiful items from two freelance artists who sell their products on Etsy. I know that these two ladies whom I purchased these items from rely on business like my own to help keep them going--as we know, our economy is an ever-changing crapshoot. I also know that by taking the time to handcraft each piece that they make with love ensures me that the product I'm receiving in the mail is a quality product.

The first treat that I ordered was the necklace that you see in the bottom picture. Sara owns, runs, and personally stocks Heavens to Bessie, a Baltimore-based jewelry shop that's completely handmade and, let's face it, absolutely lovely. I've actually collaborated with Sara and took some promotional photos for her previous collections, and I had the pleasure of running into her on one of my trips to Baltimore at the end of January. We met through one of my best friends & college roommates, and we really hit it off. As compensation for my work, she hand-stamped this necklace for me. It reads "that doo-wop feeling", which is what I use to refer to that joyous flip my stomach does whenever a doo-wop song comes onto the radio (or when I see this guy :)). The point is, go to her Etsy store, browse around, and if something tickles your fancy, treat yourself. The best part? Sara's totally willing to customize a piece for you. 

So go! Go now! Support what she does & encourage her to keep up the amazing work! I know I am!

:)

Secondly, I finally took the plunge (after years of admiring her work), and ordered one of Hailey's scarves from her Etsy shop. Ozetta is one of the top names in handknit scarves, hats, & other products, and I've genuinely been interested in purchasing myself one of her creations for ages. I'm so glad that I finally did, because in all honesty, it's one of the finest scarves I've ever owned. The yarn that Hailey uses is top-quality, and even though the temperature has been fluctuating lately, I'm so happy to have it to ride out the last few weeks of winter. On top of the fact that she can make an amazing handknit scarf, Hailey is extremely personable & lovely. I ordered my boyfriend a scarf for Christmas and I was so impressed with how quickly she responded to my inquiries and how genuine she was about making sure I was pleased with the product. She's the type of person I'd like to sit down and have a cup of coffee with.

So please, I beg of you, walk the extra mile and look into supporting local artists (or produce stands, or hairdressers, or even plumbers). I know from experience that they appreciate the business as much as you'll feel great giving it.

xo