my miss ruby sue

Workouts for this week

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Sun, 25 Mar 2012 20:54:00 +0000

HI friends-many of you know that I have been posting my workouts on FB, MissRubySue, and I wanted to share them right here first. This is my Monday, Wednesday and Friday workout. Hope you enjoy your week! These are so quick, and easy to do. Everybody has at least 10 minutes to workout!

HI friends!

Business 101 When to ask for help

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Photo Courtesy of bendoverboy

Years ago, I knew I needed help when I said to Chad- I have GOT to have better pictures! I need a photographer!

Well, that dialog has developed into: " I have GOT to get someone to help me do Facebook. I need help with Twitter! I need someone to just sit and PIN my business! I need someone to answer emails! I need someone to edit all my bad spelling, and clean up my Etsy shop! I NEED HELP- I JUST CAN'T DO IT ALL! And if you are on the computer you aren't working, which means you have clients that don't have their packages yet, and if you're working, your not answering those emails or corresponding with your clients online. Such a headache don't you agree?

I finally got someone to help me, actually several people. I am fabulous at building hairpieces and decorating your hair, however, I really stink at doing everything else, and frankly I don't have time. So I hired a virtual assistant to help me run my Facebook, and she also helps with my Twittering. Then I hired 2 amazing graphic artists to help me with designing adds and banners, the other girl is redesigning my blog. I also have another great girl cleaning up my spelling in my Etsy shop, email marketing, pinning my products, and soon to be a guest contributor on my blog.

There really is so much to do, and you can't do it by yourself. I am so blessed to have an amazing team of girls who LOve my product as much as I do, and believe in my company. They also tell me the brutal truth when I need it.

Is it time to gather up a team to help? Are you going crazy doing this all by yourself?

You can start with the people around you. Take a minute to think about this next thing I'm going to tell you- do you have a client that is so crazy about your product that she's a returning customer on a weekly basis? Do you have a Fb follower that always posts on your page saying how great you are? Do you notice the fans who are first to say goodmorning?

There are your employees! There is your pool of potential team members! Don't just sell to them, HIRE them!

Can't afford to? These girls love your product and YOU so much they'd probably love to do a trade with you.

As you gather a team of enthusiatic friends who believe in you and your product, the work load becomes lighter, and who knows- you may even smile a litte bit more. Plus who wants to work alone anyways?

See you soon!

Daily Deals Jan. 30- Feb.3

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I hope you had a great weekend- I am certainly looking forward to February and all the pink and red everywhere. I just love it don't you? Who doesn't love hearts? and I heart YOU!

I picked something

Beyond the Playground 2 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 30

Coy in Crimson 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 31

Love at First Site 50% off 24 hours only Feb.1

San Fransisco Summer 50% off 24 hours only Feb.2

Favorite Colors 50% off 24 hours only Feb. 3

As always, we are here to add to your beauty! Just try one on!

Have a wonderful week my friends- see you in the studio!

Business 101- What to do when sales are down?

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Photo Courtesy of valentinadesign

I Loooooved this article when I saw it and wanted to share it with all of you! How many times have we said- "my sales are down- what can I do?" Now I don't feel helpless anymore, and I also feel I have more control over what I used to think I 'didn't ' have control over. I cut out the first 2 which didn't apply to me being a small business, but you can refer to the complete document at: about.com

1. Give your customers the inside scoop.

Recently I was shopping at a retail housewares store. I had picked out an item and was mulling over whether to buy it or not when a salesperson came up to me and said, “I see you’re interested in that blender. We’re having a sale next week and all our blenders will be 20 percent off. You might want to come back then.” Guess what? I did – and bought two other items as well. Lesson: if you have a promotion or sale coming up, tell your customers about it. They’ll come back – and probably bring some friends with them too. (And don't forget - you can give your customers the inside scoop by emailing or calling them, too.)

2. Tier your customers.

There should be a clear and obvious difference between regular customers and other customers – a difference that your regular customers perceive as showing that you value them. How can you expect customer loyalty if all customers are treated as “someone off the street”? There are all kinds of ways that you can show your regular customers that you value them, from small things such as greeting them by name through larger benefits such as giving regulars extended credit or discounts.

3. Set up a customer rewards program.

We’re all familiar with the customer rewards programs that so many large businesses have in place. But there’s no reason that a small business can’t have a customer rewards program, too. It can be as simple as a discount on a customer’s birthday or as complex as a points system that earns various rewards such as discounts on merchandise. Done right, rewards programs can really help build customer loyalty and increase sales.

4. Distribute free samples to customers.

Why do so many businesses include free samples of other products when you buy something from them? Because it can increase sales in so many ways. As the customer who bought the original product, I might try and like the sample of the new product and buy some of it, too. Or I might pass on the sample to someone else, who might try the product, like it, and buy that and other products from the company. At the very least, the original customer will be thinking warm thoughts about your company, and hopefully telling other people about your products.

Attracting new customers is a good thing. But attracting new customers is not the only way to increase your sales, and is, in fact, the hard way of going about it. Shifting your sales focus to enticing your current customers can make increasing your sales easier – and best of all, build the customer loyalty that results in repeat sales.

I thought these ideas were attainable and do-able. Within 1 week of using these tools, I had great customer feedback,

and my sales have gone up. I have also added a free gift in my packages and have had a great response from my clients such

as this from Malina:

Just received the best package!! Thank you so much you make it SO special to open!! And of course it looks fabulous on my little girl!!

You really make us feel special!

I'll see you soon!

Let's hear your business tips!

Daily Deals Jan. 23-27

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Wow it's getting closer to February, which happens to be my most favorite holiday, Valentines Day. I don't feel the pressure to HAVE to do something like Christmas; I give a gift because I want to. ( I never liked being forced to do anything anyways)
And lets do some pink shall we? Remember to use code DAILYDEALS for free shipping- think of that as the frosting on your sweet little deal at Miss Ruby Sue!

Lindi 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 23

Tell you a Secret 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 24

Love Joys Tea Room Pink 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 25

Sheer the Love 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 26

Breezy Bouquet 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 27

Have a sweet week my lovely ladies!

Business 101- Planning

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Every Monday, right here, just you and I can sit down together and talk business. I've been running Miss Ruby Sue for almost 4 years, and though I don't know everything, nor ever will, I think I've gotten better thru trial and error, asking questions, watching others, and observing successful habits of other businesses. I usually cringe when someone tries to give ME advice because my business of making headbands - producing a product, shipping it, promoting it, inventory, social media- all of that is so different and there is no cookie cutter business mold for you or me. But a few things can still apply.

Planning. Plan to be successful with your business, and your time. Last year I planned to reach 10,000 FB followers in 2011. By Christmas I had 6K, so I didn't quite make it. However, I am still aiming for high numbers, and giving it my best. Work on growing your FB numbers, getting more followers on your blog, and yet somehow not go crazy at the same time, will help your sales grow slowly but surely. Organize your time so you can do your FB, Twitter or your blog when the kids are asleep. Plan on being busy!

Another thing you can try is to make a vision board for yourself and don't be afraid to post the things that YOU want! When you see your goals up on the wall day after day, it gives you a silent path that you are quietly following.

photo by: elementsofstyleblog.com

I found a great article at About.com on Planning. I thought I would share it with you.

" Basic Management Skill #1: Plan
Management starts with planning. Good management starts with good planning. And proper prior planning prevents… well, you know the rest of that one.

Without a plan you will never succeed. If you happen to make it to the goal, it will have been by luck or chance and is not repeatable. You may make it as a flash-in-the-pan, an overnight sensation, but you will never have the track record of accomplishments of which success is made.

Figure out what your goal is. Then figure out the best way to get there. "

I'd love to hear your comments and suggestions. Remember to be nice!

Daily Deals 16-21

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Hello Miss Ruby Sue fans! This week I've got some of my favorites, and they will arrive just in time to welcome in Spring! I've really been having a great time creating all of these precious little heirlooms for all of you, and I hope you enjoy them for years to come. If you haven't purchased an original Miss Ruby Sue, now is a great time- each posted item is 50% off, with Free Shipping when you use the code DAILYDEALS at checkout! HOw cool is that?
Here's what's on the menu this week for all those curious minds!

Blossoms and Buttercream 50% off 24 hours Jan. 16

Crowning Glory 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 17

Style Me Pretty 50% off 24 hours only Jan.18

Cherry 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 19

Paula 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 20

Remember- use the code DAILY DEALS to sweeten your purchase!

Daily Deals Jan 9-13

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Goodmorning lovies! Most of you know we've made the decision to continue the Daily Deals and free shipping for the entire year, with a slight change. Instead of going 6 days of the week, we've shortened it to 5 days a week. We want every one, and I mean EVERYONE to have an original Miss Ruby Sue heirloom piece.
We also hope to show you some amazing changes here at the blog, something I've been dreaming of for two and a half years - it isn't easy trying to find someone! When we're ready, we're going to be hosting our first HUGE giveaway on FB and the blog! So be watching closely- and I will tell you when.
Thank you all so very, VERY much for your continued support and business- it allows me to continue to provide you with the BEST hairpieces EVAAA!

Rolling Tide 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 9

Plum as you are 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 10

Sweet Temptation in soft Pink 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 11

Traipsing in the Meadow 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 12

Mandy 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 13

My Blue Bell 50% off 24 hours only Jan. 13

Remember to use code DAILYDEALS at checkout for your free shipping!

Sarah Groundwater and Miss Ruby Sue in Tuscany Italy

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Oh boy are you going to Looooove this wedding! I was asked to make several hairpieces for Sarah Groundwater, and soon discovered this isn't your ordinary girl. Planning and working with Sarah was so much fun for me as I grouped her colors, and started building her pieces. The colors actually did all the talking and I listened- which made making them so much fun, and after making about 25 pieces, I still hadn't run out of ideas! It was a real treat to see all the photos finished, and I want to thank Sarah for allowing me to be apart of her beautiful Tuscan wedding!

Photography by: AubreyJoyPhotography.

Source: The Wedding Belles

Hairpieces: Miss Ruby Sue

How to find success with your Business Idea

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

I have to chuckle whenever someone asks me this. In fact I've been dragging my feet writing this because I am definitely more creative than I am "Business Savy"- whatever your definition of that means.
Today finding success isn't just what you do with your hands and fabric, or paint, or wood, or yarn, it's how well you can use the Internet as well as your Craft, such as Social Media- FB, Twitter, Blog, and now Pinterest to name a few.
Just to prove my idea with some of my own real statistics, and I mean REAL here, (just so you can see it ain't all roses here) I am sharing this information with you to show you the power of the Internet and how it's going to affect your business sales, (and your happiness as well). Again, I am not an expert, but learned the old fashioned way of trial and error, which means a LOT of you will relate with me on this!
MRS (Miss Ruby Sue) began officially in Oct. 2008

STATS for the 3 months: 5 items sold

STATS for 2009-2010

Not bad for ZERO FB or other social media outlets- just lots of ETSY Treasuries, Popular Blogges and being featured on Good Morning America, and The View. (I was featured because I was a stay at home mom, making a few bucks with an online store on Etsy. I fit the story they were looking for)
But then after awhile, your fame is long forgotten, and your sales drop.

STATS for 2010-11
This is what happens when you don't use media AT ALL....

Now look what happens when you learn how to use FB, use Twitter, start Pinning, and spending time on the computer when you can!
STATS for 2-11-12

Isn't that crazy??? CRAZZZZYYY!

Starting a business with little resources is like playing baseball with only you covering the whole field. You are the pitcher, the catcher, the first base, the runner and the umpire. Your store will start to grow, although at a snail-pace. Be prepared to face a lot of challenges, and patience and a lot of hard work will be your best allies.

Most start-up entrepreneurs even find that they need to shift to a simpler lifestyle as all their resources are channeled into the business. Even your time for leisure will be dramatically cut. Be careful in protecting the trust and support that you have earned along the way.
Total devotion to your business, honesty and sincerity to the people that you deal with, will take you to higher levels and allow you to branch out in a matter of time. There will be a lot temptations and pitfalls that you need to be prepared for. Starting a business is a complicated process.

So lets recap with the Microscope:
1. Start. .Quit thinking about it and just do it. Set up your Etsy shop, or whatever place you decide.
2. Get your FB page started. Start Twittering, Pinterest, Instagram, your blog. TODAY.Invite your friends, neighbors and family members to your store with all the social media you can handle.
3. Make sure you are the BEST at what you do. Prove it with pictures.
4. Be passionate about your work, and share your joy thru your tweets, your FB, etc.
5. Repeat every day!

Here are some great sources for help you can find right here:
http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2011/quit-your-day-job-son-of-a-sailor/

About.com

http://www.etsy.com/blog/en/2011/quit-your-day-job-eternalsunshine/

Good luck, and enjoy the process! It will change your life!
All the best,
Lori

Happy New Year!

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Hello and Happy New Year Lovies! Have you set your goals for 2012 yet? I will be doing mine later today, and thinking and reflecting on what I'd like to accomplish for the fresh year ahead. 2011 was just an amazing year for Miss Ruby Sue; in 11 months we went from around 100 FB followers to over 6,000. We went from 135 orders in 2010 to 690 in 2011. Wow! I don't know if Thank You is the right word here- but I am just BLOWN AWAY at your generosity and kindness and especially your SUPPORT as we go into the new year. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!
For the last 2 months I've been working on some new ideas and sprucing up the shop a little bit, and thought I might share a few things that are coming to fruition and which you'll be seeing really soon.

I'm so excited to be introducing these fun, simple and colorful creations- and I hope that you love them too. Over the last 3 years I've really wanted to get back to my 'roots' and create smaller pieces that show their greatness with an intense color palette and simple design. AFter doing such large and over the top creations,, I feel a little refreshed by working on smaller details- things that color your life everyday. I hope you are going to love them as much as I do!
Last but not least, a new blog look is in order, Thanks to my friend Kassie, and when you open your packages you're in for a big suprise as well!

May 2012 be even better than 2011! And I wish you success in your own journey towards becoming a better person and business owner!

All the best,
Lori

Daily Deals Dec. 26- 31

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 17:22:00 +0000

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas with your families! I enjoyed getting up at 7, and seeing my little 6 year old so excited for opening gifts. If it weren't for Kylers excitment, it'd be really quiet around our house. My 3 teens piled up on the couch and sorted their gifts, finally showing their enthusiasm! It was a beautiful day, spending an hour at Church, singing a solo, and later having my parents and brother over to spend the evening. It really isn't about gifts, it's about family, and I have Christmas every day when I have my family surrounding me.
Every night when I lay down on my soft bed and Company Store sheets, I thank my Heavenly Father for the wonderful people who support my business- for your friendship, your support, and your continued business. I am truely greatful!

This is the last week of Daily Deals, so I hope you enjoy these little goodies.
And I will also be intruducing a new line of products that are fun, and oh so colorful!
I know you're going to love these!
I love you all, and have a wonderful week!

Tyler 50% off 24 hours Dec. 26

Olivia 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 27

Pink Paisley 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 28

Eye-Catching Elegance 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 29

Loop-dee-Loop 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 30

Complete Joy 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 31

Oh, and here’s another gift: enter coupon code* “DAILYDEALS“ to get free shipping every time you purchase MRS DAILY DEALS. You can take advantage of great savings every day, making holiday gift giving this year the easiest – most fashionable – MRS holiday ever.
I"ll give you a weeks preview of what's to go on sale- Tell me, now WHO does that? WE do- so you can plan your purchases and tell your friends! I'll post 6 items and their dates for Daily Deals each week right here and on our missrubysue FB

Daily Deals Dec. 19-24

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:07:00 +0000

Goodmorning to all of you! It's a beautiful sunny morning here in Idaho, and just a skiff of snow. It's really fine with me if we don't have a "White Christmas"! My kids do not share my anit-snow sentiments, but never the less, I can drive at a decent speed without worrying about hitting college students on my way to the post office.
Without further adeu, let's see what is on the menu for this weeks Daily Deals.

Fairy Dreams 50% 24 hours only Dec. 19

A Full Life 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 20

Kamille 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 21

Flash of Foliage 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 22

Belle of the Charity Ball 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 23

ONe Big GiNOrmous SurPRISE! Watch the blog and FB Dec. 24 for special Details You WON't Want to miss!!!!!!!

photo curtousy of my modern met

Daily Deals 12- 17

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 01:07:00 +0000

We've got 3 weeks left of Daily Deals here in the Miss Ruby Sue studios, and I'm working on all of your orders feaverishly making sure they get to your home before Christmas. I want to thank you all for supporting Handmade, and for supporting MOI!

Happy Shopping!

Large Storage Suitcase 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 12

Red Your Mind 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 13

Frolic in Finery 2 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 14

Lillie 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 15

Just for Fun 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 16

Colorful Creature 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 17

A different hand-picked MRS headband design will be discounted, EVERY DAY (except Sundays) from November 7 – December 31. MRS DAILY DEAL will only be good for that day, so check www.missrubysue.com often.

Oh, and here’s another gift: enter coupon code* “DAILYDEALS“ to get free shipping every time you purchase MRS DAILY DEALS. You can take advantage of great savings every day, making holiday gift giving this year the easiest – most fashionable – MRS holiday ever.

I"ll give you a weeks preview of what's to go on sale- Tell me, now WHO does that? WE do- so you can plan your purchases and tell your friends! I'll post 6 items and their dates for Daily Deals each week right here and on our missrubysue FB

Ground shipping deliveries within U.S guaranteed to arrive by December 24 when placed before December 16. Expedited shipping for an additional fee is available through December 22

Daily Deals Dec. 5- 10

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:45:00 +0000

Well hello there ladeeeeeeeaz! I'm so excited at the response we've had with the Daily Deals here in the studio! I want to make sure everybody got what they wanted from Miss Ruby Sue, and so I posted a question on FB to see what you wanted the very most. Here they are, and I am guaranteeing their delivery before Christmas. Thanks so much for making this a success!

Cheerful Charm 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 5

Sweet Georgia Peach 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 6

Frolic in Finery 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 7

Truth or Lime 50% off 24 hours Dec. 8

Well Yellow There 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 9

Life So Sweet 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 10

I"ll give you a weeks preview of what's to go on sale- Tell me, now WHO does that? WE do- so you can plan your purchases and tell your friends! I'll post 6 items and their dates for Daily Deals each week right here and on our missrubysue FB

Ground shipping deliveries within U.S guaranteed to arrive by December 24 when placed before December 16. Expedited shipping for an additional fee is available through December 22.

Whitney Hartmans Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:12:00 +0000

AS you can tell I love giveaways; I think they are fun to give, and fun to recieve. I'm going to share with you which giveaways I"m doing so you can be apart of the funness around the internet world. I only featured a few items here , but go to the link and you will find all of the details and freebies.

Find the Giveaway Right here

EndsDec. 10

Daily Deals Nov. 28- Dec. 3

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 02:14:00 +0000

It's soo great to be with you and celebrate this wonderful and beautiful time of year! I hope this finds you excited and ready to enjoy more of your favorites- so many of you have thanked me for doing the Daily Deals, but it is I who must thank YOU for making this all possible with your faith in me by your purchases, your support and your friendship. It's just good to be thankful everyday, not just on Thanksgiving- and I am thankful for you!
Here are this weeks goodies- enjoy <3

PinkPaisley 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 28

Sweet Temptation 2 in white 50% off 24 hours only NOv. 29

Gall In a Goodie Store 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 30

Emme Claire 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 1

Paula 50% off 24 hours only Dec. 2

Beyond the Playground 50% off 24 hours only Dec.3

Daily Deals Nov. 21-26

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 02:31:00 +0000

Thank you so much for making Daily deals a hit! This week is sure to be another success with MORe beauties being discounted every day!
Here we go!

Cherry 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 21

Lorraine 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 22

Purple-Razzi 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 23

Sweeter than a Cupcake 2 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 24

Traipsing thru the Meadows 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 25

Mandy 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 27

Gift Certificates-- Q and A

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 10:00:00 +0000

"How do those darn Gift Certificates work?" You wouldn't believe how many times I get asked that, so I decided to FINALLY post your answers here on my blog, and I hope this helps anyone who is trying to encorporate GC into their shops.

Sue writes: "I'd like to pick your brain as a fellow Etsian. I want to start offering shoppers gift certificates but can't figure out the instructions I should give to the gift certificate recipients on how to redeem the certificate. Would you mind sharing the instructions you provide? I'd really really appreciate it!"

Well Sue, to make it brief and to the point, I set a dollar amount in different increments of 25, 50 and 100.00
The gift giver purchases the item and I agree to email the GC in the form of an email, or, I can print the GC and send it in the mail to the recipient, with a special code- either a number or a word so I know it's legit. Then the recipient contacts me by email and lets me know what item they'd like.

These are the instructions at my shop--
These gift certificates are great as last minute gifts! They are e-mailed to you or the recipient
so you don't have to depend on the post office for delivery! If you prefer, an actuall card can be mailed to the lucky recipient. Just let me know the recievers address, etc in note to seller.
These certificates are redeemable towards any item in our shop including shipping and can even be applied to custom orders. If the purchase is less than the amount purchased any remaining balance will be logged as a credit and can be applied toward future purchases.
You will receive a beautiful .pdf file via email within 24 hours of your purchase for the Dollar amount. You can then print it out and present it to your loved one as a special gift!
When purchasing a certificate please write in the message to seller:

Your Name
Your email
Recipient's Name

Same goes for the Surprise Headband:

I hope that helps! And if you have a better idea, I'd love to hear it and we can share it with everyone else.

All graphics were done by my good friends at Sweet Bee Design Shoppe-- because I suck at computer stuff.

Daily Deals Nov. 14-19

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 01:01:00 +0000

In continuing with our Daily Deals, I am happy to let you know that our first week was a success as more people learned about this amazing sale going until the end of December. Again, here are the details and sneak peaks for the week ahead of us. It's been really fun to hear how excited you have been to find and plan for your favorite hairpiece up for sale. I hope there is many more this week that you love and can't wait to have.
Here we go!

Tell you a Secret 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 14

Call of the Wildflowers 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 15

Sweet Temptation in Hot pink 50% off 24 hours Nov. 16

Gretta 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 17

Lindi 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 18

Merry Mademoiselle 50% off 24 hours only Nov. 19

Oh, and here’s another gift: enter coupon code* “DAILYDEALS“ to get free shipping every time you purchase MRS DAILY DEALS. You can take advantage of great savings every day, making holiday gift giving this year the easiest – most fashionable – MRS holiday ever.

I"ll give you a weeks preview of what's to go on sale- Tell me, now WHO does that? WE do- so you can plan your purchases and tell your friends! I'll post 6 items and their dates for Daily Deals each week right here and on our missrubysue FB

Ground shipping deliveries within U.S guaranteed to arrive by December 24 when placed before December 16. Expedited shipping for an additional fee is available through December 22.

My wish list......and growing

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Fri, 11 Nov 2011 10:00:00 +0000

I've never really put together a wish list before. Perhaps the last time was when I was about 5 years old. Maybe it's because I don't make the time to sit and think about what I"d like. But I'm completely bored with the weather turning cold and snowy and so I decided to sit down and make my OFFICIAL LIST for 2011
I've gotta smell good and look good at all times!

Burberry Perfume Yumm Yumm!

I recieved a sample in TEEN Magazine and fell in love instantly!

And No. I'm not a

teen. but I pretend to be one at home.

Hutton trouser in Silk Faille by JCrew (350.00 I might add)

I love the sheen on these gorgeous pants, and talk about dressing up a t-shirt! Sexy! I definitely would look hot going to the post office to ship my boxes!

Crystal Brulee bracelet by JCrew. Wouldn't this look great with the pants above? I love the chunky somewhat candy look to this grown up version of little girl charm decor!

Key Lime Cake Tissue box by TWINKIECHAN

Wouldn't everyone love a little Kleenex box in her room looking like a slice of PIE? This idea is Genious!

Gold Bunnies Bracelet by IADORNU

I would love to put 4 little bunnies with my childrens initials on them. I just loved the idea and hearted practically every item in their store! You need to check out her jewelry- it's so unique-and she sells to MODcloth!

Matryoshkas Earrings by FINEDOLLYLOLLY

So unique Right?

Roots and Feathers

And more earrings. I really do have simple taste!

Verry Cherry Earrings from ParisienneGirl

ShopRuche's Train Stop 15 Adorable Dress!

And to top off my simple taste-----

Last but not least, one of these please!

I hope you all have fun making your own wish list for the holidays! I did- and I know I'll at least get ONE item under the tree!

Daily Deals

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 16:15:00 +0000

I am sooo excited to start Daily Deals for Miss Ruby Sue! A different MRS discount every day in NOvember- December!

Miss Ruby Sue has grown like crazy in 2011! You’re among the tens of thousands of daily page viewers in our Etsy online store, and thousands of fans on Facebook and Twitter and Pinterest. Because of you, Miss Ruby Sue is a household name among the fashionable set. MRS wants to thank you for being so Fabulous this year with a special holiday shopping gift: MRS DAILY DEAL

A different hand-picked MRS headband design will be discounted, EVERY DAY (except Sundays) from November 7 – December 31. MRS DAILY DEAL will only be good for that day, so check www.missrubysue.com often.

Oh, and here’s another gift: enter coupon code* “DAILYDEALS“ to get free shipping every time you purchase MRS DAILY DEALS. You can take advantage of great savings every day, making holiday gift giving this year the easiest – most fashionable – MRS holiday ever.

I"ll give you a weeks preview of what's to go on sale- Tell me, now WHO does that? WE do- so you can plan your purchases and tell your friends! I'll post 6 items and their dates for Daily Deals each week right here and on our missrubysue FB

Ground shipping deliveries within U.S guaranteed to arrive by December 24 when placed before December 16. Expedited shipping for an additional fee is available through December 22.

Stay tuned for our after Thanksgiving event too…. Black Friday’s gonna be Totally Twisted indeed!

*free shipping only available with purchase of MRS's Daily Deal. No further discounts apply.

Love Joys Tea Room is 50% off 11/7/2011 one day only

Rock it Chocolate is 50% off 11/8/2011 one day only

Wish Upon a Flower is 50% 11/9/2011

Coy in Crimson is 50% off 11/10/2011 one day only

Hello Smartie is 50% off 11/11/2011 one day only

Haute Child in the City is 50% off 11/12/2011 one day only

3rd Anniversary= 30% off ALL items!

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:45:00 +0000

Goodmorning to all my wonderful clients and friends! Today, if you don't know it is October 24. And 3 years ago today, I opened up an Etsy account under Miss Ruby Sue. I had no idea what I was doing, but I had a drive to make something work. I started it without my husbands support, depressed and a total mess emotionally. Work for my husband which was so successful years previously was literally dying right before our eyes. *2006-07* I started with a cute little headband, purses, and a few bags. And then I started to realize what it was I really liked after doing a million necklaces. I loved headbands. I really do. And from there, my story has a happy inbetween- oh this isn't over yet. NOt even.

a cute little circle handbag

a few trinkets I made

fabric scraps

My first headband

Now I started having fun.

What are my dreams?

I never want to quit. Ever. I will do this until the day I'm buried in a Tiffany Blue Casket.. *i'ts really cliche, but I love what I do and believe that as long as there are little girls being born into this world, Miss Ruby Sue will live forever in the hearts and on the heads of all female creatures this side of heaven.
I could not have done this without good and loyal fans, family, friends and clients who helped me to believe in my own creativity, and to design without any fear and follow my heart. That my friends, is a dream come true.
So here's 30% off good until Halloween to celebrate with me 3 AMAZING years.
The code is MISSRUBYSUE30
Enjoy the sale, and enjoy your special creations from Miss Ruby Sue!

Fashion in Full Color

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 23:56:00 +0000

Now that Summer is gone (sniff sniff) and Fall is here, that means you're pulling out pants from the back of the closet, and trying to figure out what fits and what doesn't. ( Don't tell me I'm the only one)And I think dressing each morning should be fun. Yes. Really.

And how do you make dressing each day fun? COLOR! Color on your pants, your shirts, shoes and especially your belts.

I start with the pants first.

If I had to wear regular blue jeans every single day I'd cry. So borring! So Spice it up!

Some of my ABSOLUTE fav's for fall, winter, spring and summer are these gorgeous Vintage Matchstick Cord beauties from J.CREW availble in 11 different colors! Hows that for color? I ordered the Vibrant Flame and Grafiti Green-and don't believe the old Wive's Tales about Cordoroys making you look fat. These are so soft and thin and add wonderful texture to your outfits.

One of the things I really like to do, even before I saw it featured on JCREW models was tucking my shirt right at the top of my pants- or where your belt buckle is. It's like a slouchy, "I know I look good and I don't care" attitude. I found that instead of people looking at my fabulous breasts, the eye is directed to the belt. (Another reason to wear a brite, off the wall belt. I know, right?) So if you have big boobs, tuck in your shirt- just in the front, and watch people divert their eyes to your belt instead. Or maybe you don't mind that. But Seriously try it. And don't you dare match it either. Or I will jump out of my computer and grab you!

Then yesterday I found these little beauties at JoesJeans. I gasped and went strait to the internet to find my favorite most favorite color--I call it 80''s flourescent yellow--

I'll take one of each of the Fabulous The 55 Colors . Just get you one great pair and alternate between your Jcrews and blue jeans.

I'm also really loving blouses. That word sounds soo old, and I hate eating crow, but now I'm wearing these light fluffy see-thru pieces.

Delias, and Ruche

Throw on a cute sweater that DOESN'T match.

delias

Now I really want to stress this point I'm about to make. Don't worry about what other people think.You're probably wrong anyway. If this is the first time you've made a deliberate attempt to be colorful you will be a little self- concious. But that will go away with the compliments that follow you around all day long.

. So wear some color, walk away from the mirror, and absorb the happy hormones that color gives you.

Next time we chat I'll show you my shoes, and my belts. I'm sure you can't wait!

Business 101- better clients

noreply@blogger.com (lori) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 15:28:00 +0000

I recently had a friend ask me: "I'm getting feedback that my items are now "too expensive", even though the quality is better than it used to be. I know I probably won't "convince" them that the quality is worth it, so where do I find the fans that DO want higher quality?"

That brought me back to when I first opened my shop Miss Ruby Sue in 2008 when everything was so new to me, and the thought of pricing all these hairpieces had me really nervous. I had some homework to do! Questions like " What is the going rate for something that looks like this? Is this a fair price? If I price it too high, people won't by it, and if it's too low, will they think my work is too cheap?"
A great place to start it to Read Etsy's ART OF PRICING series. That really helped me understand how to do it from the Dollars point of view, but what about MY point of view?

Since you're here, I'll tell you my point of view.
I didn't know what the heck I was doing back then. But I learned something about the stuff I made. When I introduced my Bib Necklaces, I charged 35.00 dollars per necklace because heck- they looked wierd and I wasn't sure if anybody would like them. I sold one, and another, and another, and ANOTHER, but they took forever to make with all the beading, details, etc. and I HATED making them. Guess what I did? I upped the price. I upped it 4 times until I felt they were worth my time to make. ( $99.00 if you wanted to know.) Now I EnJoy making them because I could make it worth my time. And I was being payed what I felt my time was worth. Now please understand that the demand was there-- if there was NO demand, the price would have stayed right there. But I was selling several a day and was able to still get what I wanted.

Now back to the question about " where do I find the fans that DO want higher quality?"
Before you jump to that, Ask yourself these simple questions.
* Do I offer something unique to the market?
In other words, Is what I'm selling, what everyone else is selling?
does it look just like my competitors?
* Is my work my very own?
Do I use someone elses work to base my own work off of?

* Do I enjoy working? is it worth my time?

* Will I be focusing on little sales, or bigger ones? My mentor Sherry, from BABYPOP taught me this and I've NEVEr forgotten that simple little advice that brought bigger $$$ to the studio, because I chose to go bigger and be different.

* If you offer something unique to the market, you can charge for that. Future clients are looking for something that is different and catches their eye- they want to buy something that they have never seen before. Why make something they can do themselves?????
I can't stress this enough- Why spend money on something that everybody else has?

*If your work is your own, charge accordingly. If it's copied, you aren't worth it. But if someone inspires you to add a little something different, or try a new skill and apply it to your work, then charge accordingly.Don't copy, it makes you fat simply because you aren't using your brain, or your hands, or your legs.

*Do You enjoy making your work, or is it a pain in the butt? Maybe you are not charging enough? Maybe you should reread the story above.

So a little review:

Name your price and stick to your guns.
Don't lower them except for a sale.
Get better pictures to make yourself look worth every penny.
If you stick to your guns, you will sift thru the cheap clients, and attract the ones who will pay.
Stretch yourself as an artist and create beauty and THEY will come.

Remember: this is my experience. If you have something that works better, Share it!
missrubysue@gmail.com

Photo credits: Tasha Price @ Reflections