Bella Mia: Anything involving ribbon: bows, clips, bowholders, cards, scrapbooking, etc.
How long have you been in business?
Bella Mia: Officially I opened my etsy store in June of 2009, but I have been making bows for friends and family since 2008.
Do you have formal training?
Bella Mia: Nope, learned how to do most of my crafting projects through trial and error.
What's the best part of having an Etsy store?
Bella Mia: Meeting other people who have the same passion for handmade as I have. I have found some great gifts and personal purchases on Etsy and you can see how much heart and soul goes into each handmade piece. And getting my name and product out to people who live on the other side of the country is pretty cool too -- I'm not gonna lie :)
What surprised you about having your own business?
Bella Mia: I really didn't calculate all the time that needs to be invested in marketing and promotions. When I first started I thought I'd put my items up on etsy and I would be bombarded with sales. (LOL). In reality, most of my sales have come from the chat rooms and forums and getting to know other etsy sellers.
How would you describe your style?
Bella Mia: Chic and affordable. That goes for my items as well as my own personal style. I love finding great things at a good price! I am a sucker for a sale and the highlight of any shopping trip is to see how much money I saved or how many great things I got at a good price! I <3 fnding those diamonds in the rough!
What one item should everyone see in your store?
Bella Mia: I love my ice cream cone clips. So cute and fun to make!
Thanks for the awesome interview, Rosamaria!
