Gussy Sews

{7 pretty things on Sunday}

Gussy Sews — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 12:00:32 +0000

all photos via real couple home tour: emerson + ryan

i recently stumbled across this “real couple home tour” on emerson + ryan, of emersonmade, and seriously — i’m amazed at how fresh and organized using glass jars for storage makes your home look! absolutely loving it :] it makes me {almost} wish we had smaller materials inside the studio, instead of bolts of fabric. it’d be so fun to add a few dozen glass jars filled with all of our necessities and have that be it for our decorations!

ALMOST ;D

be sure and click over to read the full tour + story! their home is so pretty…

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SHARE WITH US: how do you stay organized? what’s your best tip for the home, studio, shed out back? ;]

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{noteworthy links — farmhouse wares, giveaway day winners + a DIY}

Gussy Sews — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 12:00:44 +0000

inspiration board DIY via ::gasp!:: Lowes

NOTEWORTHY LINKS FROM THE PAST WEEK:
* the TWO winners of the Nesting Place giveaway day are Kelly, kel_ _ _@gmail.com {comment #624} + Rachel, g_ _ _ _rachel@gmail.com {comment #537}. C O N G R A T S ~ both of you have won $50 to the Gussy shop. please watch your inbox for an email from us :]

* farmhouse wares

* i need this bicycle

* 100 golden “no’s”

* doily shower curtain DIY

wishing you a hip happy hooray weekend!
XO

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{my week in Instagram pics + a coupon code}

Gussy Sews — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 12:00:45 +0000

my goodness, i sure am happy that today is FRIDAY! {if only TGIF was still on TV and i could sip a chocolate malt, now that’d really be great, hah!}

the last few weekends this month have been spent working ~ getting ready for the Gussy shop re-launch that happened on monday. so, i’m looking forward to a relaxing weekend :] monday of this week was such an amazing day. i actually took it off work and pretty much watched the feedback roll in all day long. is that nerdy or what??? i rarely take days off, which is silly, especially when i work evenings + weekends on big projects. something to work on this year?!

monday morning i made zack breakfast before he headed off to work and then bauer and i snuggled lots on the couch.

thank you again for all the support you’ve given to my shop this week ♥ i’m so so soooooooo grateful. it’s such an incredible feeling!!!

monday night zack and i celebrated by going on a little date to california pizza kitchen, YUM! and do you like our matching shirts? ;]

ooops, how could i forget? bauer helped me edit photos over the weekend, haha! he’s a good little pup.

we also went on some great walks this week. his favorite is to run through the snow at the parks near our house. and i admit, they are pretty amazing! even though minneapolis is a big city they have definitely put some serious money into the parks/lakes that are at nearly every city block corner. they’re super clean and amazing, with fun little paths here + there, and playgrounds and/or little kiddie pools {for the summa time}. i LOVE how much park-land this city has!

oh, you sassy lil thing…

did you catch on monday that all items are now ready-to-ship? ohhhhh yes, and i think this is going to be life changing for Gussy Sews. from what i’m seeing online via twitter + facebook, nearly all items that sold on MONDAY have already been delivered. so fantastic, i can hardly stand it!

linking up with life rearranged today for some instagram inspiration!

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we have a few products in the Gussy shop that are almost sold out {crazy}!

not only is everything is ready-to-ship, our items are also LIMITED in quantity, which means once the print sells out we won’t be adding it back in. don’t miss out — save 15% today only with coupon code FRIDAY15 {code expires tonight at 11:59pm CST}.

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SHARE WITH US: what are your plans this weekend? i’m grabbing lunch with a friend saturday, and later that night zack and i plan to go ice-skating. i can’t wait!

{Bauer’s Daybook — 12th edition}

Gussy Sews — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 12:00:51 +0000

hi friends!

we went on a walk the other morning and good golly, playing + running in the snow is hard work. tires me right out! well, better get back to my nap…

woof!
-bauer

PS. my little red shirt has a deer on it and is from here.

{fabric –for– S A L E}

Gussy Sews — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 04:19:24 +0000

UPDATE: all 12 bundles have sold!!!

* * *

last weekend i took a peek inside the studio and realized we have A LOT of fabric in storage that we don’t plan on using. everything is new/un-washed — *but* some of the items above have been cut into and have uneven edges.

all fabrics are from Hawthorne Threads, JoAnns or Etsy sellers. many of the prints above are current/designer.

what you see above is FOR SALE! i’m selling them by bundles, everything is numbered above along with the price of the bundle. everything also ships for $10 s/h via USPS priority mail {2-3 days max}.

i’m turning the comments off on this post. please email me if you’d like to buy a bundle via PayPal :)

UPDATE: all 12 bundles have sold!!!

{a fabulous Gussy Sews giveaway via Nesting Place!}

Gussy Sews — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:00:29 +0000

this giveaway is now closed.

Yesterday was our super exciting shop re-launch, and today we have a super exciting, FABULOUS Gussy Sews giveaway via Nesting Place — yeow!

Today you have the chance to win one of 2 – $50 gift certificates to the Gussy Sews shop! {open to the US only}

ABOUT GUSSY SEWS + HOW MY RUFFLES CAME TO BE:
I started Gussy Sews a couple years ago after Zack and I were suddenly unemployed. We were living in Detroit at the time and were newlyweds, recent college grads… and unemployed. It was such a bummer time in our lives but we kept the faith and pushed through, spending all of our free time expanding on our talents and dreams.

Just before losing my job I had been given my first sewing machine. I sat at our kitchen table with 30 library books {no joke} and with the help of YouTube slowly taught myself how to sew. It seemed natural to make zipped pouches and tote bags, since HELLO! we are best friends. Then I thought, These babies need a signature look, so I made my very first ruffle and sewed it on. My style has changed a bit but the ruffle has been with me the whole time. After a few months of sewing and job-seeking Zack and I found work in Minneapolis, so we packed up our house and headed west. And that feisty fire — the dream to pursue Gussy Sews full time, grew a little taller. Finally, in May of 2010 I quit my day job for Gussy Sews — and ohhhh, the HAPPINESS!

Encouraging others to chase after their dreams + constantly learning about sewing/fabric/social networking are my passions. I’m so glad you’re here — and good luck to you on winning a Gussy! ;]

Click here to read the more detailed version of my story.

* * *

THE GIVEAWAY:
enter to win one of 2 – $50 gift certificates to the Gussy Sews shop! {open to the US only}

TO ENTER:
♥ visit my shop and tell me which item you HAVE to HAVE! {required}

for additional entries:
♥ “like” us on Facebook + say hello!
♥ follow me on Twitter
♥ browse my shop + click “like” or “tweet” on any item from my shop, shown here…

Don’t forget ~ visit Nesting Place for EVEN MORE fabulous giveaways!

xoxo

{the EXCITING Gussy Sews shop + ruffle re-launch!}

Gussy Sews — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 12:00:05 +0000

new, double ruffle headbands

THE GUSSY SHOP IS NOW RE-OPEN!

for the past 5.5 weeks we’ve been closed, finishing up Christmas orders and preparing for TODAY! but we’re now OPEN and we have some seriously amazing updates for you! i could cry happy tears right now! getting ready for today has been monumental, in the best possible way ever :] i am so proud of my team for helping me get to this point! we’ve totally revamped the site + all products. cambria, lisa + marjorie — you three are my power team! thank you for everything ♥.

NOW FOR THE FUN DETAILS!

here’s what you’ll find when you click over to the new site –
+ NEW, *lower* prices
+ NEW fabrics, so fresh + fun
+ a NEW ruffle style, oh my word i’m in loooove!
+ ready-to-ship on all items {minus tote bags + macbook cases}. the studio is bursting with ruffles!
+ EASIER sidebar navigation — shop by collection, price or color
+ all items have LIMITED quantities. since they’re ready-to-ship, ya know ;)

our items have a fresh new look and everything is adorable + sassy! and that ruffle, i just can’t get over how fun it is!!! it’s a totally new look and it’s exclusive to our shop! and about the prices, we took some time to really review them and because of this we’re able to offer spectacular pricing. seriously, it’s amazing! {go look!}

newer size, wristlets

shop “grab” buttons have also been updated, grab one for your sidebar and share Gussy with your online community!

we’ve yet to re-launch our tote bags + diaper/wipe wristlets, but know they’re coming soon. along with a few other BRAND NEW items. yeow! ;]

macbook cases

oh yes — we have macbook cases! three sizes: 11″ air/13″ pro — 13″ air/15″ pro — 17″ pro. they have extra padding, a zip closure and a sassy inside lining!

♥ visit the Gussy shop to see the rest!

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{7 pretty things on Sunday + linky party!}

Gussy Sews — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 12:00:43 +0000

photo sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

YAY — today’s “7 pretty things on Sunday” post is super special! It’s a collaborative post with three other fabulous bloggers and together the seven of us are sharing one photo each to total our “7 pretty things”: Molly, Illy, Jamie, Janae, Julianna, Jade and myself. I’ve been doing this Sunday series for a little while now ~ it was inspired by Elsie’s “10 things I love” weekly series. And y’all know how much I heart Elsie, right?! Anyway, the four of us are here to share with our online communities a little glimpse of the things that inspire us individually. And we encourage you to participate with us! See the end of this post for instructions on how you can add YOUR “7 pretty things on Sunday” post to the linky party {so much fun!} and meet other inspiring bloggers. ♥

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My photo is photo #3! I’m inspired by nearly everything you see: the girls beautiful brown hair {remember how I’m growing mine out?}, the darling poof skirt, the tights, the old beautiful door behind her, and of course her handbag. This girl is so cute and I just adore her style.

PS. Love light mustard + aqua pairing!

* * *

Join Gussy Sews, Matchstick Molly, Much Love, Illy + The Letter 4 for today’s “7 pretty things on Sunday” linky party! Simply add your blog below by linking to your post’s permalink. Your link will be automatically added to the other 3 blogs {hooray!}. Then, browse the other linkers to find even more inspiration. Happy Sunday, xoxo

{noteworthy links — the first rule of pricing, eating well, facing fear}

Gussy Sews — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 12:00:33 +0000

a beautiful mess

NOTEWORTHY LINKS FROM THIS PAST WEEK:
* registration for Build a Blog You Truly Love has been extended through Sunday at 8pm CST! and guess what? i’m a contributor to the ecourse! find more details here

* the first rule of pricing: make no assumptions

* sewing tips: basic sewing machine stitches, basic seams, basic hems, sew a simple cotton top, sewing sweater knit, sew your own mittens, tips for sewing stretch fabric {via a beautiful mess}

* budget bytes: on a mission to save money and eat well!

* there are no limits {via kelly rae roberts}

* i totally forgot about this website!

* angie smith: facing fear {video}

♥ Happy weekending! ♥

PS. two more days — see ya Monday for the BIG re-launch! xo

{…and the countdown begins [just THREE more days!]}

Gussy Sews — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 12:00:19 +0000

OUR EXCITING SHOP RE-LAUNCH MEANS:

* all items will be ready-to-ship {minus tote bags + macbook cases}

* all items have NEW fabrics + NEW ruffle designs

* amazingly perfect NEW prices

* NEW sidebar design

* plus, a few TOTALLY NEW products

♥

PS. sign up for our newsletter to receive VIP updates on monday the 23rd!

…yeow!

{Inspiration Workshop! — Bedrooms}

Gussy Sews — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:00:52 +0000

HOORAY — the Inspiration Workshop! is back in action! We took a few weeks off to spend time with family + friends over the holidays, but it’s now time to get back in the groove of sharing what inspires us, yeow! Last week I announced some I.W. updates ~ be sure you read it so you don’t miss any important details! We hope by making these changes it’ll make participating in the linky party easier for everyone.

Moving on to the scheduled prompt, bedrooms!

I’m absolutely LOVING these rooms and the color/airiness they have:

the color issue

poppy talk

dream green DIY

urban outfitters

A few more loves, just for fun: these lamps, this bench, fresh flowers + a reading nook. My wish list is now complete ;]

One thing I love about the home we’re renting is that our bedroom has two doors, one being a giant 6′ pocket door that opens to the living room. It makes us feel like we have so much extra living space because we use our bedroom so often. Plus, Bauer can nap on our bed and not feel so far away from me while I work in the other room –wink!

SHARE WITH US: Do you have a bedroom wish list? Or, is your bedroom already your dream room?

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This week’s Inspiration Workshop! prompt is BEDROOMS!
♥ Share your blog post with us by linking up below. I’ll be clicking through the links so I hope you join the party and share your inspiration!!!! You have until the evening of Sunday the 22nd to link-up your post! :]

Want even more inspiration? Read all previous Inspiration Workshop! posts by clicking here.

Sign up for our monthly Inspiration Workshop! newsletter to read about additional resources + ideas, plus other fun stuff you may not want to miss. The next email will send on Friday, February 3rd.

{Join us for a “7 pretty things on Sunday” linky party?}

Gussy Sews — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:30:25 +0000

YAY, SO EXCITED to invite all of you to participate with us –

Join the bloggers of Gussy Sews, Matchstick Molly, Much Love, Illy + The Letter 4 on Sunday the 22nd for a “7 pretty things on Sunday” linky party. All you need to do is link your “7 pretty things” blog post {click here to see past posts} come Sunday to one of our blogs {listed above} and it’ll automatically link to the other 3 blogs. So easy and so much fun!

What’s 7 pretty things on Sunday? Oh that’s a great question! It’s just a fun way to share inspirational finds with your blog community. And it’s easy: pick seven things that inspire you and include them in your link-up post via blog post ~ be sure to include a photo of each!

We love to be inspired and hope to see you Sunday! xoxo

The gals from The Letter 4 even created a cute grab button for us to include in our posts come Sunday:

Wanna know something totally nerdy? The seven of us — Molly {Matchstick Molly}, Ilene {Much Love, Illy}, Jamie, Janae, Julianna, Jade {The Letter 4} and myself — will be sharing one photo each via collage to make up our {7 pretty things on Sunday” post. We’re all super excited to share our inspirational finds and meet some new friends online ;D

Hope to see your posts Sunday!
xo

{re-working an old organization idea // finding inspiration from A Beautiful Mess.}

Gussy Sews — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:14 +0000

over a year ago i wrote this post, sharing how i stay more organized. the longer i blog and develop my own style {and how new ideas are formed} the more i realized i’m not even using this folder anymore. in fact, i had moved on to 2 other ways of idea-keeping, and i wasn’t using those EITHER!

then i read elsie’s post on organizing inspiration and *click* the bulb went on. my macbook is constantly scattered with post-its, as is my desk and wallet. they’re everywhere and seem to be the best way for me to track my ideas. i’m super excited to implement a few tips from elsie with what i already have been doing to create my own {better than ever!} idea book. yeow! i love that elsie uses sticky notes to track her ideas {cuz yup, i do that too}… i’m constantly nodding in agreement as i read her blog ~ seems like we have similar thought patterns ~ which makes me think that perhaps THIS will be the answer to my organized ways. i’m going to add a few more things to my book and i’ll share it here soon!

i was so excited about re-working this old idea that i started working on it last night ♥. and then i thought, some times the best way to stay organized and on top of things is to take a break from the norm and get started right away.

one reason why my original Gussy folder didn’t work was because i didn’t try hard enough. i also was using a method that didn’t go with the flow. instead of using this folder i found myself going back to my old ways {which weren’t even helpful!}. a beautiful mess is one of my favorite blogs ~ i’ve combined one of elsie’s recent posts with a recent conversation with the Nester and viola! i think i’ve figured it out ;]

PS. tomorrow starts the Inspiration Workshop! — the prompt is bedrooms. see you then?!

SHARE WITH US: do you feel organized with the ideas you produce? what are some of your favorite blogging tips? who inspires you?

{3 tips for selling your wares at a craft show // guest post}

Gussy Sews — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:00:54 +0000

Sharon of Shaggy Baggy is guest posting here today with her experience selling wares at various craft shows. Sharon and I first met through a meet-up or blog event or craft show, it’s hard to remember since we see each other around Minneapolis every few months ;] Naturally I thought she would be a great resource for today’s post — selling your wares at a craft show. ENJOY!

* * *

I am thrilled to be sharing this post with the Gussy Sews community. Welcome!

I have just finished a busy 3 months of holiday craft sales, boutiques and art shows. My season began in September at The Creative Connection Event. I sewed like crazy to re-build my inventory in October and had two sales in October and a sale every weekend in November. This has been my second year of holiday craft sales. Here are a few things I have learned:

1. Choosing a venue. Big investment doesn’t always result in big sales. Of the nine sales I participated in throughout 2011 the best organized, run and attended was done by volunteers of a local school PTA. Being a member of my local ETSY street team has been a great help in finding local sale opportunities. I also make the effort to connect with at least one person from this team at each sale I participate in. Living in the metro area of Minneapolis/St. Paul gives me lots of choices. Festivalnet.com is good online source as well as just doing a google search for sales in your area.

2. Tracking your expenses. This goes beyond participation fees. Things to consider: Display costs – keep these to a minimum if you are just starting out. Keep it simple at first, this will let you figure out what works and what doesn’t. How much time goes into to getting ready for a sale (tagging items, packing, transportation) as well as your time spent at the sale. Will you go alone or have help {and will you pay for this help}?

3. Stay positive. Often a slow craft show has resulted in future online sales or a great connection with a local shop for wholesale. This is also a great opportunity to meet other local artisans, and learn of other upcoming sales opportunities. Don’t show your frustration or join in a conservation with fellow vendors that may be disappointed with a sale. Be friendly, be proud of your work. Take advantage of this opportunity to show off your work and brag about your passion for your craft.

♥ Connect with Sharon on her blog | shop | twitter | facebook.

* * *

EVEN MORE RESOURCES:
* craft show tips + tricks via sunshine and carousels
* craft show display tips + must-haves via Etsy
* successful craft fair tips via Handmadeology
* 7 common vendor event blunders via craft show tips
* craft room organizational tips {great for displaying/organizing product at a show} via My Blessed Life

SHARE WITH US: Have you participated in a local craft show? Are you new to the craft scene? Are you a seasoned pro with years of experience? Have a question or tip to share? All comments are welcome!

PS. enter to win $500 in personal style/home decor services — {a Full Red Carpet Package [style] giveaway, via cupcakeMAG!}, yeow!

{a Full Red Carpet Package [style] giveaway, via cupcakeMAG!}

Gussy Sews — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 01:00:02 +0000

This giveaway is now closed.

Our friends at cupcakeMAG have a new, re-vamp’d site ~ along with cupcakeMAG styles and virtual styling services! If you’re like me and daydream about having a personal stylist {but can’t afford one?}, cupcakeMAG has got you covered! Thanks to their readers they’ve been inspired to put their styling skills to work and now offer many different options for all different budgets. They offer a full-virtual makeover, re-vampin’ your space + a la cart services for their clients. Fashion dilemma? Full wardrobe makeover? cupcakeMAG can help, YEOW!

This is so exciting to me! I love how a simple change {it’s all about your mindset} can change so many other things in your life. It starts with taking the first step, like creating an Inspiration Board and then it spirals more + more + more until suddenly not only your wardrobe is re-vamped but so is your office and business! I talk about these things in an indie biz sorta way, see here and here.

Anywhoo ;] guess what?! cupcakeMAG wants to gift someone from the Gussy Sews community with their Full Red Carpet Package, valued at $500!!! This can be used on yourself or to re-vamp your home/space. Read on for more info!

HERE’S HOW IT WORKS:
“The reader would send us photos + videos to build their portfolio and discuss their styling needs. We would go over this with them in full-detail to see what they need to change, what is working or what is not working. We will discuss their options, budget, and goal that includes personalized wardrobe and accessory styling — whether it is for a media appearance, specific event, occasion or they just needs some outfits put together for everyday use. It is a fashion forward virtual makeover. The services includes two 30-minute consultations, one before and one after we complete their portfolio — if they want to discuss options in detail otherwise everything is via email! Nice and easy. And, who doesn’t love a makeover?! Perfect for those looking to be transformed into the most confident + stylish version of their best self, they just don’t know where to start. The makeover will be customized to compliment their personality and lifestyle down to the eye shadow and earrings.”

MAYBE YOU’RE IN NEED OF A ‘SPACE’ MAKEOVER?
“Well, we’ve got you covered there too! Can’t decide on a theme for a perfect nursery? Office screams blah? Bedroom just isn’t cozy? Let us help make your space oh-so-stylish. We stay up on home trends so you don’t have too! Tell us your budget and we will make it happen! Everything from a detailed layout of your furniture to the colors on your wall to every accessory making the room pop. We can create the space of your dreams with a design layout, inspiration boards and links to shop. Let us make your space as stylish as you!”

cupcakeMAG styling — amazing + beautiful!

See WHAT’S NEW with cupcakeMAG here! –OR– follow along on twitter + facebook.

Lastly, cupcakeMAG is offering the Gussy Sews community 50%-off of all of their services if you mention “Gussy”.

* * *

Now for that giveaway I mentioned above ~

cupcakeMAG will be gifting someone from the Gussy Sews community with the Full Red Carpet Package, valued at $500. Wowza, can you even *imagine* what kind of styling $500 could bring to your wardrobe or home if you won?? Absolute gorgeousness, that’s what kind!

TO ENTER: leave a comment below! {that’s it!}

For 1 additional entry: “like” cupcakeMAG and Gussy Sews on facebook, then come back here and let us know. I’ll be announcing the winner via Facebook on Friday the 20th! And yes, I’ll be checking FB first :}

G O O D ♥ L U C K!
xo

{on getting too comfortable with my business.}

Gussy Sews — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:00:29 +0000

wild summer

last year i got too comfortable with my business.

i remember the months leading up to quitting my day job for Gussy Sews, which was almost 2 years ago now, and then the months that followed soon after — and how i was constantly engaging, learning, digging deeper + deeper to make sure things were getting done right, well, quickly. i was pretty tired, most of the time, but it felt good to be so engaged. time passed, and the busier we got the more help i hired. but at some point i know that i got too comfortable with all of this because as the end of 2011 neared i thought to myself, “it’s time for some serious changes. like, for real.”

of course this thought didn’t come all at once, but rather from feeling like i wanted to get my business back on track {nothing too serious, but a dozen or so ‘small things’ needed to be updated}.

in just one afternoon i had a to-do list a few pages long and i was EXCITED to start implementing them.

hello, shop re-vamp + new product designs launching monday, january 23!

in just one week we’ll be launching the updated Gussy Sews shop, plus new products + designs. it’s been such a beautifully intense month full of many hours spent cutting fabric, ironing, sewing. my studio is nearly stocked with new products and i’m so, so proud of what the Gussy Sews team has helped me accomplish. all because i didn’t want to be too comfortable.

so this tired feeling that’s taken over my body again — i welcome it, because it reminds me that i’m doing something right :]

SHARE WITH US: what have you gotten too comfortable with? what in your life could use some extra TLC? leave a comment below, let’s encourage one another!
xo.

{7 pretty things on Sunday}

Gussy Sews — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 12:00:39 +0000

hooray, it’s time to be inspired! here is my first 7 pretty things on Sunday of the new year; the series is inspired by the amazing Elsie:

photos 1, 2, 3

photo 4

photo 5, 6, 7

for most of these photos i searched my pinterest photo stream. i also keep a folder on my computer of posts + ideas that i think will be a little more timeless.

* my cousin Molly is also doing a “7 pretty things on Sunday” post — click over and see her version? {i think it’s posting at 10am cst}

SHARE WITH US: how do you organize posts you fall in love with? …and does that work well for you?
xo

{noteworthy links — promoting products on Pinterest, FB business banner + more}

Gussy Sews — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 14:00:15 +0000

via knot & bow

NOTEWORTHY LINKS FROM THIS PAST WEEK:

* promoting your products on pinterest {the right way}

* my favorite lip balm – ever!

* how to make a facebook business banner

* how healthy is your online information diet?

* 50 things to write about when you have writers block

* cream of tomato soup + grilled cheese {recipe}

Happy weekending!
♥

PS. two more Gussy shop sneak peeks: here + here {see more Jan. 23 when we re-launch!}

{reminder ~ next week the Inspiration Workshop! re-starts}

Gussy Sews — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 12:00:40 +0000

the Inspiration Workshop! — click photo for more info

One week from today the Inspiration Workshop! starts back up, hooray! We took a little break in December – the first part of January for the holidays + family/friend celebrations. Now that they’re over {sad!} we hope you’re ready to link up with us again :]

If you’re new here you may be wondering what the Inspiration Workshop! is? I started it back in June, it’s a monthly linky party where I invite YOU to link up with us by sharing your take on the scheduled prompt {changes each time}. How closely you follow the prompt is totally up to you. Maybe you only want to share photos, maybe you want to share A TON of photos? Maybe you want to write just one little word? Totally perfect! Just remember to give proper credit to the photos you share, if they aren’t yours.

Everything you want to know about the Inspiration Workshop! is shared here {how to sign up for the email list, how to link up with the linky party, etc.}.

But — there’s one big change starting next Thursday when we re-start the workshop: we’ll be linking up only ONCE A MONTH! I started the Inspiration Workshop! months ago thinking a weekly linky party would be perfect, but after some careful thought and collaboration with Cambria and Nester I think it’ll be the most successful if it changes to once a month. This week is an exception ~ all following I.W. weeks will be on the second Thursday of the month.

And, we’ve written the Editorial Calender for the next quarter!

Starting tomorrow, monthly emails will be sent out, elaborating on the following weekly prompts:
Jan. 19th: Bedroom
Feb. 9th: Organization
March 8th: Spring

*these dates reflect the actual linky party; the email notification [click to sign up] {which includes extra info about the prompt} will email the Friday before the scheduled monthly date.

My hope is that by sharing the weekly prompts months in advance you’ll have an easier time linking up/getting to know other bloggers.

* * *

Remember — SIGN UP for the weekly email newsletter here! We’ll be sharing additional resources + ideas, plus other fun stuff you may not want to miss.

Not sure if you want to sign up/participate? Hey, that’s cool… Click here to see past Inspiration Workshop prompts.

xoxo.

{let’s have a serious conversation.}

Gussy Sews — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:44:24 +0000

dear hair,

oh, how you can drive me crazy. some days you are good to me and you look great, other days i question why you decided to not live up to your full potential? {still waiting for an answer to that one.} i love the idea growing you out long {a few inches past my shoulders} but you don’t seem to want that for me. so most days i accept that and simply lust after other girls long hair on pinterest and how pretty it looks on them and the hairstyles they can create and how great their unwashed hair looks the next morning. don’t read too far into this ~ i love the volume you birth and the curls you create! ;] you do treat me well in those areas. but, you’re really testing me here. long hair or medium hair? how am i supposed to pick? after about 1 month of trying to grow you out i simply give up. happens every time.

here’s what i think: i’m going to try it again — the length thing, and i want you to do your best to work with me. let’s be a team :] i promise to wash + condition you with pretty-smelling shampoo and then maybe add a ruffly headband to you {if you stick with me}.

deal? OK!

xo, gussy

PS. tips + advice can be left in the comments ;]

{days 5 – 7: my personal challenge + recap}

{what’s on my mind? another uncut and fun version.}

Gussy Sews — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:25:43 +0000

source

yeow, what a PRODUCTIVE bunch of days this year has already been! it’s hard to believe we’re already on day 10 of the new year, dontcha think?! so far 2012 has been a busy // surprising // productive year. i’m learning so much and finishing so many projects {one of my goals for 2012} ~ it’s a fabulous feeling. staying on track keeps me happy.

i thought it would be fun to quickly share a little list of some behind-the-scenes things with Gussy and a few personal Maggie updates –wink!

okay, here we go!

* i have spent HOURS cutting fabric… hours! and it’s so refreshing. i’ve used this quiet time to really focus on the business and further map out some ideas. i also spend this time giving Thanks. this business is such a treasure to me.

* the new products we’re working on — SO FUN + FRESH! just 2 more weeks and then i can show them off, hooray! mark january 23 on your calender.

* when i’m not cutting fabric i’m organizing the studio. my oh my, what a labor-intensive task this has become ;]

* Pandora does a particularly fabulous job at selecting music for us, hah! every few hours or so i really focus on what’s being played and i’m like WHAAAAAT, who picked this station? then i remember i did and i feel super silly, hehe!

* i took Bauer’s red “deer” shirt off and he looks like a totally new pup. SO CUTE! such a handsome dog he is.

* have you taken my supa’ short quiz yet? here’s the link in case you missed it yesterday ;]

* i’m starting to wonder if Minneapolis will get any snow…? and i am totally fine if that doesn’t happen this winter. not having to wear boots EVERY TIME i go outside, not having to warm up the car for 20 minute before we head to the store, not having to put boots on Bauer so we can go on our daily walks. yep, it’s nice!

* didja know we’re offering sponsored giveaway posts a couple times a month?

* cutest goals list ever, right? {below}

goals list via julie ann art

* our cousin has been staying with us for the past week {and we’re hoping she stays with us much longer}. it has been great to have someone so close {tee hehe} to bounce blog ideas off of each other, plus she laughs at the funny things i do ~ errrr, i mean Bauer does.

SHARE WITH US: How is the New Year treating you? What are some things you’re excited about? What are you working on today?
xo

PS. see my first {what’s on my mind? the uncut and fun version} post here.

{design updates + a Gussy Sews community survey}

Gussy Sews — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:39 +0000

Over the weekend I finally did something I’ve been wanting to do for weeks: update my blog header with something a little more timeless. I love the idea of including photos but they seem to become dated as the seasons change {something I’ve learned over the last 3.5 years; more on this in an upcoming mini-series!}. And it’s hard to pick just a few photos when I take sew many every week {hah, Instagram!}. It’s been on my mind for a bit now to update my header with something a little more lasting so Friday night I made it my goal to design something I’d love! Even Zack helped out ~ he drew the outline of my first sewing machine, I love it!

The second design update I worked on is the “welcome” box in my sidebar. If you have a second, click through the tabs to see how we can connect online OR meet-up in person at an upcoming blog event ;]. If you’re reading this post in a reader be sure to click over to see what I’m talking about.

* * *

Twice a year I like to write up a short blog survey {10 quick questions} and then share it here in hopes to get to know the Gussy Sews community a little better. As soon as I hit “publish” I run off and say a quick prayer that most everyone that reads Gussy Sews takes it and that no one comes to hate me for asking what seem like silly questions, like “how old are you?” or “why do you read this blog?”. But the truth is, these questions are anything but silly. They’re actually incredibly helpful in many areas, including mapping post content, sidebar sponsor ‘guidelines’ and the like.

If you read Gussy Sews frequently {whatever that means to you}, would you take this survey? kiss kiss, smooch smooch

PS. All 10 questions are anonymous…

H A P P Y MONDAY!
Start the week off on the right foot ~ remember to check off your to-do list one item at a time. XO

{noteworthy links — indie biz, Pinterest, celebration cake}

Gussy Sews — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 14:00:48 +0000

DIY: succulents in a jar

NOTEWORTHY LINKS FROM THIS PAST WEEK:
* 10 tips for bloggers ~ how not to be a cookie cutter blogger

* Six ways to add value for your customers without having a sale

* When will you carve out time for your business?

* celebration cake {DIY} — yummers!

* Pinterest and Blogging :: The Good, The Bad and the Huh?

* The No Brainer Wardrobe by Tiny Twig ~ get dressed with more confidence and less fuss {ebook}

Happy weekending!
xo

{my week[s] in Instagram pics + a Gussy shop update!}

Gussy Sews — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 20:45:54 +0000

What a crazy + busy + awesome + relaxing few weeks we’ve had! Zack, Bauer and I drove to Michigan two weeks ago and spent nearly a full week with both sides of our families. It was so wonderful to be with them… so refreshing! Just what we needed I think :] Today I’m linking up with Life Rearranged, below are some photos from my Instagram stream {follow me! I’m “GussySews”}.

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driving on the Mackinac Bridge // family photos! // sparkly red holiday nails

cozy flannel sheets for those chilly winter nights {my mom takes such good care of us!} // Bauer kissing Collin, my almost 7yo nephew ♥

SKIP BO, a favorite at my parents! // Christmas pretties // wedding photos ♥ // silly Bauer, looking for his toy under the couch

Jack Riley, my almost 4yo nephew ♥ he’s soooo cute!

one night while in Grand Rapids, MI Zack and I met up with my high school friends to hear a local band ~ Round Brown Suitcase. It was so much fun…we must do this soon in Minneapolis!

snoozin’ in the car // driving around CHICAGO! // Wisconson-land // snoozin’ once we got home
{poor, poor, poor puppy –wink!}

Essie nail polish – my new FAVORITE! // back to work in the Gussy studio [happiness!] // hah, Bauer… he knows just how to pose! // baking sugar cookies with cousin Alyssa

a local to Minneapolis gift shop, Paper Hat Co, hosts happy hour + craft night from 5pm-7pm every Thursday. the first time I went we made paper trees out of a magazine. this time we made fabric-covered clothespin magnets*. so simple + easy, yet SO MUCH FUN! Alyssa {our cousin; she’s staying with us for a few weeks} and I made the cutest magnets :] // a yummy dinner: a monster salad with lots of vegetables + fruit on the side + tomato lentil soup + fresh bread.

*To make the magnets: use Elmers glue to adhere the fabric to the front of the clothes pin, embellish with a colorful pom. Add a strip of magnet to the backside of the pin, glue for extra durability. Place on your fridge & smile at their cuteness! ;]

Santa brought me a new pair of shoes for Christmas ♥ I love, love, love them, especially since the weather in Minneapolis has been so mild — I can wear them most days {instead of my boots}, hooray.

* * *

I’ve had a crazy week of working in the studio, which is quite a bit different for me — but I love it! We are elbow-deep making the new products and it’s making me super happy to see our new collection come together. Lisa and Marjorie have been sewing and I’m so thankful for their help. We are working hard to finish in time for the re-launch date: January 23! Not only will we have new styles but we’ll have new products! And an updated website! Everything is turning out to be just beautiful!!!

Here’s a little sneak peek of what’s to come:

The fabrics I’ve selected are fresh + new. I like to describe them as “lovely sophisticated”. After nearly two full years of chasing after this dream full-time I’m so ready for this product + design change, YEOW!

More photos + updates are to come…

HAPPY {almost} WEEKEND!
xoxo

{this little doggie…}

Gussy Sews — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:00:45 +0000

this little doggie… he is just the best. he’s the best companion, the best little traveler, the best snuggler! both ways, driving to MI and then back to MN for our Christmas vacation, Bauer slept on my lap in the car and hardly made a peep. when it was my turn to drive he would bark ~ i thought it was cute he wanted to be closer to me but Zack didn’t think so, tee hehe! this last month or so Bauer has been my little shadow. maybe that means i need to get out of the house more so he has time to explore outside of his crate? probably ;]

if Bauer’s tail isn’t wagging he’s probably chewing his bone or taking a nap. those are his three favorite things, and they make me happy!

do you have a doggie? tell me something great about him or her.