Member Feature: Damask Diva

Tell us a little about your shop.
For the most part, I sell damask votive wraps for votive candles. I can do wraps for almost anything though such as vases, pillars, favor boxes, etc. I also create custom I Do letters, and lately I have added a seating chart design and matching table numbers. I plan to expand on those collections greatly in 2010.

What brought you to etsy?
My shop came about because I was really frustrated with the lack of affordable damask items for weddings. If I did find a damask item, it would usually be expensive or I could only find one or two. Then I decided to use my love of damask plus my love of being cheap (or thrifty!) and combine the two.

How long have you been crafting?
For a very long time! I’ve always been the creative type, and I like to think outside the box. I believe beautiful damask items can be a lovely décor piece in weddings, showers, and even in the home. Crafting is a way to be productive and keep my mind going. Plus, it’s something I can do while drinking cheap wine!

What is your favorite item in your shop right now?
My favorite item would have to be my Spring Elegance Variety Pack. This winter was really cold in South Texas, so this variety packs reminds me of the lovely spring that should be arriving soon.

What is your "day job?"
I am a Student Advisor at a Community College. I enjoy helping students, but I really want to make my Etsy store my full-time job in the next 2 years or so.
Where do you find inspiration?
I tend to stay away from magazines and such because I don’t want to copy anyone’s ideas. Mostly I walk the aisles of Michael’s or Hobby Lobby, and I ask myself how I could “damask-ify” that. Yes, that’s a word.

What is one thing you wish you could do better?
I wish I could get my orders out the very next day, but it’s difficult because of my “day job”. I do strive to get orders out ASAP though.

What is one crafting tool you couldn't live without?
My laser printer. I LOVE IT!

What is your favorite book/movie/song?
My favorite book is The Great Gatsby. So classic! My favorite movie is The Wedding Planner, because Matthew McConaughey is GORGEOUS! But besides that, I’ve always wanted to be a wedding planner and it’s a cute movie. Song? Anything by Britney Spears. (Don’t laugh!)

Where else can we find you? I am all over the place!
Blog: http://www.monicabenavidez.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/thedamaskdiva
Etsy: http://www.damaskdiva.etsy.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/damaskdivadesigns