Friday, August 19, 2011

Men. What Are They Thinking?

Me: (yelling to the other room) Hey, come get this plunger out of the bathtub!

Husband: (walks into room looking confused) Why?

Me: Because I want to take a shower.

Husband: No, you gotta let it rinse off while you shower.

Me: Wait. What? You're kidding right?

Husband: ::blank stare::

Me: Oh my God, you're not kidding. You want me to shower WITH a plunger?

Husband: ::blank stare::

He cannot be serious right now. Please tell me I am not the only one who refuses to shower with a plunger? Does he want me to wash it with our body wash and puff too?!? lol. Men.


**Update: Plunger was removed from bathtub by the time I finished writing this post and went back to shower. There will be no showering with plungers....today.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

DDD Designs For You!

Its no secret that I love creating clothes for your kids--well at least I hope its not, lol. I hear all the time about how lucky I am that I sew and how I have such a talent; I really appreciate the compliments--and if you have any more compliments about how amazing I am feel free to add them in the comments below, lol. Many of you have shared with me that you have ideas for outfits that you wish you could make but you don't know how to sew. I try to encourage everyone that has the dream of sewing to pick up a sewing machine and just start! I'm self taught myself, so I know how intimidating it can be, but there are amazing resources on the Internet just waiting to show you how to sew! Unfortunately, not everyone has the time, energy, or money to teach themselves to sew. For those of you that don't have time to learn to sew and have what they believe to be an AMAZING clothing design, I have a solution! Say it with me.....CONTEST!

So here is whats going to happen, you are going to email me your best sketch of that adorable FALL outfit you've been dying to see made for your child(ren)--I don't do adult clothing and yes, it can be boys. It cannot be an outfit that you have seen anywhere else, it must be of your own design! You do not need to pick fabrics because we will do that together if you are chosen. Along with your sketch, be sure to send an explanation of your design. Trust me when I say that this will not be chosen on your drawing alone, I am no Picasso...although perhaps he is a bad example because my drawings probably do look rather Picasso-esque. lol. Here are some children croquis templates you can trace to help you sketch your design.

So now, I'm sure, you are wondering "What's in it for me?" Great question! Not only do you get to name the outfit, BUT you get the outfit made for you for FREE! How exciting is that?

Starting this evening and going until Sunday, August 28th at 11:59pm, I will be accepting entries. I will choose a winner within a week and the outfit will be created within two months. We will work together choosing fabrics and put the whole ensemble together which will take a little time, but the outcome will be fabulous!

I look forward to seeing all the wonderful designs headed my way!!! If you have any questions or to send in your entry please email me at DashinglyDainty@yahoo.com

Monday, August 15, 2011

How to Care for Boutique Clothes

I figured I should write a blog about this topic as I have never discussed it before and caring for a handmade garment requires special care from what you purchase from a store.

I use 100% Cotton Designer fabrics. Why? Well, first, I demand quality products for my customers. I use these fabrics because they are thick, sturdy, and can hold up to toddlers and young kids. Secondly, cottons are a great choice for wash-ability and, hello, they are cotton so they are breathable and perfect for all seasons! Finally, the choices in fabric designs are far superior to that of other fabrics. And if there is anything I know about my customers, they LOVE choices!

For the past couple months by daughter has been wearing about 90% boutique clothes and I have been following this regimen when I wash the clothes. So far her clothes still look brand new and are not faded.

1. I only wash the clothes in cold water. Warm or Hot water has a tendency to shrink clothes and fade the colors. This is especially true with boutique clothes.

2. For stains you may get, I spot clean using Shout where needed. My daughter has been very BAD to her boutique clothes, but no one can tell thanks to Shout--no this is not promotional, although I could help them make an awesome commercial starring my daughter. lol. I have also used Resolve with great success!

3. Now the MOST important part. I hang dry all my clothes and highly recommend it! Oh dryer, how I love thee, but let me count the ways as to why you are never to see my boutique clothes again:
  • You toss my hard work around  like you don't give a damn! You've even been known to snag some things. Did you ever think about what this does to the seams on my heart the clothes ?
  • When you toss the clothes around, you create static cling. I wish to wear my clothes not have my clothes wear me.
  • You are too sexy HOT for my boutique clothes and they can not handle you. All that heat causes them to fade, and worse yet, shrink. I know you don't have any children--that I know of--but they grow like weeds and boutique clothes are too expensive to take that chance. Oh and that piling. You can keep it!
  • Did I mention you are expensive to keep up?
But what about the stiff feeling I am left with when I air dry? I know that's what you are thinking right now. Well I have a couple solutions.
  • You can use fabric softener in the washing machine. 
  • You can use vinegar in the washing machine.
  • Fluff dry on cool for 10 min. when they are done line drying
If you simply must dry your your clothes in the dryer dry it on the absolute lowest heat setting and take them out immediately.

I hope this post was informative and helpful...if nothing else at least a little entertaining! Let me know if you have any tips or tricks you do!


So Lucky to Be A SAHM!!!

"Mom, Charlotte's putting sunscreen on" One little sentence that changes your day. That's what my son yelled to me through the bathroom door as I was taking a minute for "Mommy time".
"Awesome" I think as I prepare myself for what I'm about to walk into. Boy, was I unprepared.
When I open the door I am greeted with a "pleasant" smell of garlic. What? She is in fact covered with sunscreen. Wait...thats not sunscreen ::sniff, sniff:: that is hummus. Great. Did I mention I hate hummus?
"Charlotte put sunscreen on to go into the pool! She is silly" says my 3 year old.
"Ummmmm....unless she's swimming in a pool of pitas she's not going anywhere."
I immediately grab the wet wipes since they are the closest thing--and I am NOT picking her up--and start scraping off the hummus. Yes, it is caked on so I must scrape. My kids are SOOOOOO never eating hummus again for lunch. Let's just say, I've cleaned hummus out of places hummus should never be--and when I say that I really just mean in between toes--all while violently gagging because, as I mentioned earlier, I hate hummus.

Rewind, 2 hours. I'm walking to the kitchen to get something to drink and look over to see my 3 year old using the bathroom. Okay, nothing wrong with that. Wait. Why is his pee going in the opposite direction from the toilet? So I walk up to him and stand there watching him pee not only on our wall, but also across our entire shower curtain. He cannot be serious right now. When he finally noticed me, no words needed to be said. Straight to his room he went. I played the mother role very well for about 10 minutes and then I lost it when he stopped taking it seriously and told me he was washing the shower curtain.

These are the things I have to deal with as a mother of a 2 and 3 year old. I'm still not used to it. Why did they think these were good ideas? lol. The world may never know. Kids...

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Clean Up, Clean Up...

everybody, everywhere.
Clean up, clean up everybody do your share.

If you're a mommy of a little one, you probably know this song. If you're NOT the mommy of a little one and/or you do not know this song, you probably think I am crazy. Well, maybe I am!

It's that time of year! Fall clean up in my shop. This means all the summer stuff has got to go; its all going to be discontinued! I have no idea if I will be bringing any of it back. I guess it mostly depends on if I am able to get the fabrics again next year. I won't know until I try then. So now I say "Get it before its gone!" You have until Sept. 15th--figured I'd give ya'll a month to round up the money if there is something you HAVE to have! After that, no more, not even a custom order for one of these outfits will be accepted.

So, without further adieu here are the items you can kiss goodbye!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

I'm Here Still

You know when you get so far behind on something you don't even know where to start? That's how I feel with this blog. I'm ashamed to say it, but I actually SUCK at keeping a blog. I used to be so good...then my kids became mobile and Myspace was no longer popular--that's where I used to keep a blog that I posted in regularly.

A lot has happened since I last posted on here: the main thing being my fall line has been released, well most of it anyways. Things are going well which is a big turnaround since this SLOOOOW summer. People are really liking my fall line which feels great because I put a lot into making this line amazing so its good to receive such positive feedback.

I'd like to thank Creative Pose Photography, A Day In The Life Photography, Emby Photography, Tammy Cedar Photography, Artistic Cliques Photography and MiaMoo Designs for supplying me with some Ah-Mazing photographs that really display my products well.

Additionally, I'd like to thank Shake-Up Snow Designs, Blooming Hairlooms, Lily Bean Bowtique, Positively Whimsy Hair Accessories, and Little Lady Accessories for making some beautiful hair accessories to match my outfits that were even MORE beautiful than anything I imagined.

I still have more photographers and hair accessory people that need to be thanked but that will happen when those items are released!

The BIGGEST and most exciting news I have right now is that I have added a NEW tab to my blog! If you place an order you are now able to check your order status through here up until it is shipped! Now there is no more wondering "Has she started working on my order yet?" or "How long is the wait time?" All the answers are right there ready and waiting for you! It kinda gives you a sneak peek into my production and allows you to see how many orders I am working on at one time. lol. Plus, it keeps me honest because you can see EVERYTHING--not that I'm lying, its just a phrase people use....or at least my husband uses. lol.

So sit back, relax, and watch those numbers change on my Order Status....exciting.

Monday, June 20, 2011

This is it...

this is my time to shine! Today is my official first day as a full time boutique! Of course, I've spent WAY more than 40 hours a week on my boutique before today, but I've always done it as a SAHM. Not anymore...we have a full time babysitter for the kids and today is her first day which means...today is my first "official" day as a full time boutique owner. YAY! I am so so so excited. My husband told me this summer is my chance to prove that I can do it. And so I will. There is nothing I want more in the world right now. I eat, sleep, and breath boutique clothes.
Speaking of clothes...I am sending out a huge chunk of my fall line to the photographer this week. Remember Terra from the Photographer's Challenge in February? She finally gets to photograph my clothes and we couldn't be happier! I hope you guys are ready for my best clothes yet. I have been creating these outfits and finding the perfect fabrics since I chose Terra all those months ago. If I don't get rave reviews from customers on my Fall Line, I probably never will! lol.
So anyway, I have to go back to work. Wish me luck and thank you from the bottom of my humble heart for being a fan!

Friday, June 17, 2011

Reevaluation...

The past two days I have been in talks with a boutique that is opening up soon and wants to sell my stuff! I am geeked!!! Nothing is final yet, but things are looking good! Anyway, certain circumstances have arisen from this opportunity that have forced me to reevaluate certain areas of my business...mainly prices. It sucks. I hate despise raising prices, especially because I don't want to make my clothes unaffordable for anyone! I am proud to offer affordable boutique clothes for everyone. However, with the prices of supplies rising paired with my demand rising--I am only one person and can only make so many outfits a month--some prices have to be adjusted. Not only all this, but I must admit that I've never actually figured out exactly what it costs to make an outfit and I was very surprised because I was underpricing myself. So now, I must raise prices on certain items, not because I want to bit because if I want DDD to survive I NEED to.
Interestingly enough, I came across some inspiring articles while trying to research HOW to price my items "correctly". This one in particular made me really realize how much we undervalue handmade items, myself included. I NEVER buy handmade items because I never think they are worth it, yet I sell handmade and want people to pay for my items. A few months ago, I went shopping for some clothes for myself at Target. I got everything out of the clearance section (just like the article) and what do I have to show for it not even 2 months later? A bunch of clothes with holes in them! Seriously, its maddening! I might as well have spent the extra money on a shirt for myself from a seller on Etsy that WON'T fall apart after 3 washes.
I really feel that this article hit the proverbial nail on the head when it comes to buying handmade. I also hope that everyone can understand why I am raising the prices of some of my items. Now go out there and buy something handmade!!! I know I am right now...

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

In Case You Missed It...

My friend Tiffany, from Whimsical Willows Couture, decided to go back into business together--we used to own Cookie Crumbs Couture together with another friend--to make patterns! After both of us getting emails from people requesting patterns for our personal designs, as well as having many more pattern ideas we want to see come to fruition, we finally decided to do it! And it only took a year...lol. Seriously.
We are hoping to open up shop in the next two weeks as our first 3 patterns are out to testers as we speak. We have gotten a couple reviews back from testers and so far (surprise of surprises) their stuff is turning out and they love the pattern! You don't know what a relief it is knowing that the hard work on these patterns shows!
Here are the first 5 patterns Create Kids Couture will be offering:

Chloe's Party Peasant Dress
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Anika's Peasant Romper
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Ruby's Cap Sleeve Sun Top & Gaby's Side Ruffle Capris
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Penny's Patchwork Twirler Dress
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I hope you love them and they inspire you as much as they inspire us!

Sunday, June 5, 2011

How to Tie the Perfect Bow

Yes, I realize that this is a video of someone tying a bow on a chair, not a moving toddler. But it gives you the basic idea. It took me a long time to find a video of someone tying a bow that actually turned out good so I'll take it! I Get asked all the time how I tie my sashes and bows so here ya go!


Friday, June 3, 2011

It's That Time Again...

time for Prom!!! How does this effect me, you ask? Well, my husband is a high school teacher in Detroit so we get to go "chaperone" every year! That means going to an AH-MAZING place in Detroit--yes, these DO exsist--eating delicious food, and sometimes dancing. This part is a little harder since we're at a Detroit High School dance and they like to listed to mainly rap music. Although, I cannot believe I'm going to admit this, I really like rap music. My husband "has" to listed to rap music everyday and it has grown on him; it has since transferred over to our car music and has grown on me. SOME of it, not all of it. Regardless, as much as I'm sure his students would LOVE to see us dance to some rap music at their prom...it ain't gonna happen! lol.

I got off course though because I wanted to show you some gorgeous places in Detroit that I have been--places I can assure you I would have never been to had we not been "chaperones" (I always put that in quotations because its used very loosely).
-The first year we went to Prom we went to Sinbads at the River. What a view! I don't actually remember much except the view. Oh well...
-The second year was at the Hotel St. Regis. One word to describe this place would be...ritzy? lol. Actually, I don't think I can do it in just one word. The decor was modern and trendy, but the architecture was breathtaking; it was an interesting combination that they got to work.
-The third year (last year) was at The Detroit Yacht Club. This place in to die for. I actually wish it was there again this year. DYC is actually on Belle Isle which is an island in the Detroit River. The view was incredible we could stand on the balcony and watch the sunset--which was beautiful that day. The food was impeccable and it was fun exploring the building and grounds. They actually have a members only room which I was dying to go in, but it was all men in jackets. lol. I think I would have been detected. I'm sure the price of the banquet rooms is ridiculously expensive but I would have LOVED to have got married there had I known about it!
--Finally, this year we are going to the Antheneum Suite Hotel as far as I can remember. I can't tell you about it because I haven't been their yet, but I'll be reporting about it tomorrow I'm sure.

SO right now, I having a mini-meltdown deciding what to wear tonight. Why must we always have this challenge? I wish I could just through on a suit and call it a day like men do. Life would be easier and as a stay-at-home-mom, I need easy today because I can already tell its going to be a loooooooong day.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Treasury Example for Challenge 2

I just made a treasury a little bit ago. Here is an example for all of you who are still confused. It is very simple.
Just had a thought: Wouldn't it be funny if I got myself on the front page with this treasury? lol. That would be ironic. Luckily for you, I put myself in it so  I doubt it will even get looked at! lol. Its a good one though. Definitely evokes feelings of vintage summer picnics as the name says. Good luck!



Do You Accept? Challenge 2

Okay, so I admit it, I like competition and challenges I think that's why I'm doing so well as a boutique right now. Of course, I support my fellow boutiques--at least the good ones--but I really enjoy trying to better my boutique (aka kicking other boutique butts!* lol) There is nothing wrong with a little FRIENDLY competition. Keeping this in mind, I've decided to try out some little "Challenges" for my fans so they can try to win my clothes! I'm done with freebies these days. To be honest, I'm tired of making things to get my name out there and not receiving even a "thank you" in return! Crazy, I know! So now, if you want a "freebie" from me...you gotta at least work for it! Which leads me to my point of this whole blog....

I want to be on the Front Page of Etsy. Who is gonna get me there? Hopefully, one of you! lol. In return, you will receive the outfit that makes it to the front page in the size of your choice. Here is a little info on how to get me on the front page of etsy. First, you have to make a treasury. You can see the past treasuries I was featured in here (none of which got me to the front page). Second, you have to include ME in the treasury. Third, well, there is not third. That's it.

The front page treasury on etsy is changed every hour. Thats 24 chances a day for you guys to get me there. I recommend doing a little research about getting your treasury on the front page first because there does seem to be some "rules". For example, I'm pretty sure that you cannot put an item of yours in the treasury because they want you to spread the love.

Oh yeah! And here is a website to check to see if your treasury made it to the front page. It shows all the treasuries, BUT I will most likely know before you so no worries! Feel free to leave a link to your treasury in the comments so everyone can see them!

This blog will self destruct in 10 seconds. lol. Good luck everyone!


*hopefully, you know me well enough to know that this is, of course, a joke. 

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

A Match Made In Heaven....

That's what Dashingly Dainty Designs and Model Source Magazine are! I pitched them my "British Rock" line that I was planning on putting out this fall and guess what? They LOVED it!!! They are putting out a casting call for models in their area and I am sending them the outfits in July for the photoshoot! I also have Shake-Up Snow Designs, Belly Bell's Bowtique, and possibly a jewelry boutiques working with me on this to make sure that these kids are dressed to the nines!
I am beyond excited right now! It's so nice when hard work pays off!

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Help Wanted!!!

I posted an add on Craigslist looking for an intern the other day. I've had a couple responses. But I figured, I should post it here just in case...

"Childrens clothing designer looking for an intern to work one or two days a week--possibly more if interested. I am currently working on my Fall 2011 Collection as well as current orders. You will be able to help in all aspects of the company including but not limited to designing, construction, and marketing. This is for boutique-style children's clothes--mainly girls.

Requirements:
Candidate must be 18 years or older with at least a high school diploma.
Basic sewing skills highly recommended

This will be a great hands on experience! Please state "intern" in the subject line of your email and please include your resume. Candidate must reply directly through email: DashinglyDainty@yahoo.com"

I'm in the Southeast Michigan Area if anyone is seriously interested. If you'd like more info please email me at the address stated above.

If you don't live in Southeast MI wish me luck! lol. Let's just say my door isn't getting knocked down with applicants. But if I saw this ad, I would totally apply. lol.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

Did I Mention...

that my life is sometimes odd? Who does this happen to?

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In case you can't tell... Yes, that is my grill! Yes, that is a birds nest complete with eggs inside of said grill. Awesome. Hopefully, these eggs hatch quickly because I want to bbq!

I Have Exciting News....

but I can't share it with you all yet. lol. I don't want to jinx it! It seems I've been saying this a lot lately. Yes, things are going well for me. I am bursting at the seams--a little seamstress joke for ya--and I wanna scream from the rooftop about all the things coming up in the near future. But I can't. Not yet anyways. Stay tuned though because there are some exciting new things coming up and I want to share them with you all.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

Thoughts?!?

First, I'm working on my 4th of July outfit and I am this close to being done with it! I am beyond excited because it is turning out just as cute as I imagined! Maybe even more so! I want to send a HUGE shout-out to Little Boats for being so generous and sharing where she found the pattern for this top at many months ago! I finally got around to using it and I cannot wait to show you guys (a little hint at my 4th of July outfit). You many not believe this, but MANY boutiques are not willing to share any information on anything let alone where they buy their patterns. ::gasp:: Shocking, I know. So PLEASE go friend her on Facebook and tell her I said thanks! And by the way, her stuff is adorable, so you won't be sorry.

Second, I have a confession. I am a serial lurker. I am obsessed at seeing what all my favorite boutiques are up to. I never steal ideas...I just see if there are any new techniques or styles I'm missing out on OR, my fave, seeing what fabrics to avoid or definitely use in the future. But that's it. Scouts honor. But after constantly seeing some of these boutiques almost daily I must admit I'm getting pretty bored with some of them. They are all different, but the same. They never take any chances! They found their little dress style(s) niche and they are sticking with it! I would be going out of my mind if I were them! I need change--other than just fabric. I like to push myself and test out new patterns or ideas I have. Do you guys appreciate this in a boutique or do you only shop at certain boutiques for certain styles? I'm just curious seeing as how I own a boutique and my business is YOUR business (Like that nice play on words, ehhhh?) Besides, some of these boutiques have very loyal customers and many, many sales. Please don't get me wrong, I'm not knocking their business practices or styles, I'm just curious if you get bored at seeing the same outfit over and over with just different fabrics?

I look forward to hearing what everyone has to say. Hint, hint. ::wink::

Friday, May 20, 2011

What an Evening...

Just when I was catching up on orders and getting things accomplished a night like tonite happens! I knew having a boy was going to be fun, but I didn't know they were so darn accident prone! My gosh! Today, my husband took the kids to the park with their cousins so I could work. Its really a win-win situation because he can hang out with the kids one-on-one who he doesn't see all week because he works two jobs, they get to see "daddy" and their "friends", and I get a quiet house to work in.
While they were taking a "Milk Break"--did I mention my kids are milk-aholics? A gallon a day over here--on the bleachers, my son stood up and fell right through them. He cried a little but seemed genuinely okay. That is until his cousin started freaking out about blood. Come to find out somehow he split the back of his head open. Again! Thats the second time in 8 months. Ugh... Poor kid. So we had to take a trip to the hospital where he got staples without numbing stuff because they said it doesn't really work well for that area. I felt like a horrible mom, but he was fine 10 minutes later.
All is well now. The kids are in bed after big bowls of ice cream--because ice cream heals everything--and I'm gonna try to sneak up stairs and work for a couple hours.
All I can say is "I told ya so!" My life is crazy...

Are You Up for the Challenge???

Okay, so I bought some fabric that I loved last year without knowing what I was going to make with it. Now I finally figured it out! (Hint: think an entire line including matching boys clothes) BUT guess what? I can't get anymore! NOOOOOOOOOOOO! That is so my luck. I've been scouring the Internet searching for anywhere that may have this fabric from eBay to etsy to fabric.com. Still, no luck.
SO...here is my new challenge. Find THIS fabric and get your choice of outfit from this line when it is made. Believe me when I say that this line will knock you socks off! I already have Shake-Up Snow Designs and Belly Bell's Bowtique working on hair accessories and A Chosen Few will be making a bracelet and did I mention there will be BOYS CLOTHES?!? lol. Whenever you find it (or think you find it) Post a link to it below along with your email address so I can contact you!
Good luck!

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Gotta Have One of These!!!

Well, I WAS done posting for the night, but then I came across the most adorable shirt ever! I figured a lot of you mommies out there who have kids that model on Facebook could use one of these. Shoot, I want one for myself. I mean my boutique is getting well known on Facebook so why not? Then. On second thought, people who don't know me, probably won't think very highly of me! lol.


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Be sure to say "Hi" to Jessica over at Cute Little You Bowtique and tell her DDD sent you!

Time For A Change...

Well now that the new FB rules ARE being enforced, I guess it's time for me to make my move to this blog. I've been wanting to really get it started for awhile now, but vacation threw that plan off course--as it so often does. I'm back now--ahem...been back for awhile now, whoops!--and ready to blog! I got my blogging fingers on as they say. Wait, do they say that? lol. I doubt it.

You will be seeing a lot more posts from me on here blogging about work, blogging about orders, blogging about clothes, blogging about motherhood...all the basics. I think I'm pretty hilarious too so hopefully I can get some laughs...or at least some head shakes.

So put your seatbelts on ladies because this is gonna be a (new) adventure for all of us.*



*Note: I sure know how to set my expectations high, huh? lol. I have a feeling this is going to go poorly.

Monday, March 21, 2011

Breathe In, Breathe Out...

Wow. Its been a crazy couple of weeks. Not only have my business been booming, but my daughter turned 2 this past weekend so I was super busy celebrating! I can't believe how big my "baby" is! Here she was two years ago today and today! Its amazing how much they grow in just two short years!!!
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If you haven't checked out my website in awhile, you will be pleasantly surprised to see that I have added some new outfits--most of them brand new designs not just new fabric. In fact the romper from the picture above was the newest and was listed today. Definitely go check out everything and see what I've been up to!

As far as FB goes, things are going well still. I just can't believe what an amazing asset FB is to anyone with a business. I have "met" (and now worked with) some amazing people that I would have never had the chance to connect with had there been no FB. Also, because I have been receiving so many orders--most recently for my Easter Dress--I have decided that in order to stay better organized, ie stay sane, I will only be taking orders through Etsy. It really stinks because they take a chunk of money out of every order, but it is so much easier to keep things straight. In the end, its best to have everything in one place so I don't have to search on FB or PayPal to find out all the info I forget to write down.

The last thing I did on FB today was deleting a majority of the boutiques I was friends with. I tried to keep my boutique friends on there, but basically everyone else was out. When I first started "liking" all of these pages I was in a different place. I enjoyed looking at pictures to see what everyone was creating; I love seeing how creative people are and genuinely wish their businesses the best. However, when I am trying to focus on MY boutique and MY "fans" it gets overwhelming seeing what everyone else is doing. Lately, I have been comparing what I do to what everyone else is doing and its just not healthy for me! I have been psyching myself out and thinking that "I'm not good and I'm just like everyone else". Sometimes its so frustrating to just sit back and wait for my boutique to grow naturally when there are so many amazing boutiques out there. However, for every amazing boutique there are about 3 bad boutiques that should NOT be doing what they are doing--that's another rant for another day. So anyway, if you happen to notice that I am no longer a fan, please don't take it personally, take it as a compliment instead: You're too intimidating! lol.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

I'm In Print!!!!!

It's official! DDD made it into the Spring 2011 PREMIER issue of Bebes & Beaus Magazine!!! I'm super excited too because there was a huge mix-up and I didn't even have to pay for it. It was very generous of them and I am SO thankful. Unfortunately, in order to see it, you have to order the magazine--I know I'm getting a copy for sure!
Its just an amazing feeling and nothing is bringing ME down this week! This is just a confirmation that all my hard work is paying off and no matter how small a step, it is a step in the right direction! Hopefully, I get lots of new fans from this :o)
Here is the picture that is used! It was taken by the amazing Melodi Brown of MB Photography. Given the fact that I sent her an email at like 10 or 11 o'clock the night before and I stayed up until 5 am making the outfit, I think we did an excellent job! How cute is my daughter Charlotte?!?

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Sunday, March 6, 2011

Woohoo...

So I know that 8 followers are not a lot, but I'm pretty excited about it because I didn't ask a single one of you to "follow" me. I haven't done a giveaway or a contest. Nothing! So thank you to all 8 of you; you made my night!

Dreams...

My mission statement: To create beautiful, handmade clothes that lack neither beauty or quality and by doing so, become a household name.
Everyday I work hard on my designs and try to live by this mission. I don't see the end, but I dream about the end. I want to be big. I don't want to be another nameless children's clothing designer. I fully believe that if you work hard for what you want you WILL achieve it. I may be far from where I want to end up, but at least I'm working towards something!
I hope you have a dream that you are working towards because it feels good to have something to work towards and to aspire for. We can all be great we just have to work hard and believe in ourselves!

Friday, February 25, 2011

And The Winner Is....

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

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Congrats to Terra Yates at Creative Pose Photography. Your picture was hands-down one of the best submitted AND the pictures on your websites are just as gorgeous. I spent an hour just watching the slide shows on your website. Your work is amazing and I cannot wait to see what you do with everything!


Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Top 5 in Photo Contest!!!

Well I narrowed down all 47 entries to just 5 so far. It was SO hard because I really did love so many of them. Let me also say that I was expecting mmmmmm....maybe 20 entries so 47 was just amazing! It was a little overwhelming to say the least, but I am so grateful that 47 people found my clothes worth photographing! It still blows my mind that I make children's clothes and am--somewhat--successful at it. Now if I could just keep this fabric addiction under wraps I might actually make some money....but that's a different post for a different day.
Back to the Top 5 Finalists (in no order):

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Angels Among Us Photography by Joie Dawson. Creative and unique name and adorably unique photos. How cute is this photo? I mean really?!? Can this little boy be any cuter? Visit her Facebook Page here.

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Jennifer Marie Photography by Jennifer Stoehr. This was the second entry I received in the contest and I fell in love with it immediately then. The colors are perfect the girl is beautiful and I really love the photo journalistic style this reminds me of. Visit her Facebook Page here.

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Forty Toes Photography by Jennifer Anderson-Wiggins. I love that her name comes from her four kids and she uses her too-cute-for-words daughter to model clothes. And let me tell you this girl can model! She is definitely no amateur! I can't tell you exactly why I love this photo--maybe because there is too much to write about--I love the clothes, I love the colors, I love the rustic background...I'll stop there. Visit her Facebook Page--where she is ALSO having a HUGE a giveaway for hitting 3000 fans--here.

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S.Dawn Photography by Sindi Parent. She just has a way with capturing these kids personalities! I look at her photos and I feel like I know what the kids are like. And how does she get them all to smile?!? Oh yeah, best part?!? From Michigan! Woohoo! Visit her Facebook Page here.

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Creative Pose by Terra Yates. ::sigh:: Love her! She is so gracious and her photos really speak for themselves. This photo is beyond gorgeous and she went against the norm of sending in a photo of kids...that was gutsy! I like it :o) But honestly, this photo is practically perfect and I completely understand why she sent this in as her favorite photo. Visit her Facebook Page here.


So that's it! That's my Top 5! Check back on Friday when I announce the winner!!! Good luck to the five photographers you all are amazing and I swear to you it's gonna break this little heart to choose just one.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Photo Contest

As it turns out deciding on just one winner is HARD! Way harder than I ever thought it would be. Not to mention that I have over double the entries I was expecting....Pretty good for my first one! I decided that I'd like to do this as an annual thing. A way to support other businesses and hopefully, I'll only be getting bigger so maybe I can bring some people with me?!? I only wish I would have though of it last year! lol. Oh well, better now than never.
Anyway, I had some amazing entries and it was SO hard to narrow it down to my Top 10 and its only going to get harder as the week goes on!!! I will be announcing the winner of the contest on Friday! That is, the person who wins $200 worth of free clothes to photograph! My ENTIRE Fall 2011 Collection. I may be biased but they are AWESOME!
Stay tuned....tomorrow will be narrowed down to my Top 7.

Oh yeah, here are the Top 10.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Flashback Fridays!!!

So I was looking at some different blogs today and I saw someone doing posts every Wednesday that were titled "Wordless Wednesdays" and just included a cute picture as the post. I was thinking to myself, "Hmmmm...that's and adorable idea! I should do it!" BUT then I didn't want to be like everyone else so I came up with "Flashback Fridays". I'm sure if  I Swagbucked* I would learn that its probably not all that original of an idea, but it WAS original to me! lol. So, thus begins my "Flashback Fridays".
Here is one of my most FAVORITE things I've ever made--and no my daughter is not what I'm talking about, although in reality she is one of my favorite things I've made, lol. This pettiskirt was the very first thing that I "made". I put it in quotes because I didn't exactly make it alone. The night before these pictures I begged convinced my good friend Christy (hi Christy!) to help me make it. Really, it just included me sitting next to her while she did most of the sewing and I watched...although, I do remember gathering 60 feet, yes you read that right 60 FEET, of nylon chiffon to make the beautiful ruffles. I believe we were up until 2 am or thereabouts! Haha! I'll tell you what though, it was worth it! Although, I promised her that I'd help her do the same for her daughter who was just turned one at the time and just had her 3rd b-day! (I think you should cash this in Christy because I OWE you :o) )

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Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Please Go Vote....

for my beautiful Love Me Knot Natalie Dress (#7) over at whimsycouture.blogspot.com. If I win I can get a bunch of free patterns! Yay!

Monday, February 14, 2011

It's Contest Time!!!

So I've been figuring out my fabulous Fall line and I'm so excited because I have some GREAT styles coming up that I'm excited to show off to everyone. Only thing is--in case you haven't noticed--I am NO photographer. So that's where YOU come in! I'm looking for some photographers with some serious style! So without further adieu here is my challenge...

Contest: Send me your very favorite photo that you have taken. EVER! It can be whatever subject matter you so choose. Just be sure to make it something that will WOW me.
Prize: The winner will receive upwards of $200 worth of Dashingly Dainty Designs products to photograph for me AND will be promoted on my Facebook page, blog, website, and just about everywhere else I can post! Even if you don't have any daughters to wear my clothes they would make great props for you! What little girl doesn't want to be photographed in boutique clothes?!?
How to Enter: Mail ONE photograph to DashinglyDainty@yahoo.com by 11:59pm on Sunday, February 20, 2011. Please put "Photo Challenge" in sugbject line and be sure to include a FB Fan Page or website so I can advertise all the entries! That's it!

Good luck to everyone who decides to enter! I look forward to seeing all of your entries :o)

And just for giggles...here's an example of my stellar photography!
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Check out the entries HERE!

Friday, February 11, 2011

So its Decided...

Well, I've been scouring the Internet and as it turns out finding a good art show means that it will be juried. Being juried means they will ask you for pics. And when they ask for pics, chances are they are going to ask for a booth display. Those sentences remind me of the book "If You Give A Mouse a Cookie", except in my version it'd be "If You Give A Girl A Sewing Machine". HA! But I digress...I was able to find one art show so far. Although it isn't a big one...it's actually the inaugural one. It is right on the water in a nearby town so it has high hopes! The bonus, for me since I'm such a procrastinator, is its not until the end of July so I have plenty of time to build up stock and buy everything I need for the perfect booth display...or even more time to hold off until the last minute. lol. However you want to look at it...
I already kind of have the set-up in my mind. Nothing too crazy or exciting since the clothes are the main attraction--if you will--but it will be white, with clean simple lines and a little shabby chic thrown in!
Now I have to decide what pics to enter. Here are the ones I was thinking but I really need some input since I've never applied for one of these things before. Thoughts?!?
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Wow. Sorry the pics are so large. I obviously need to work on formatting this kind of stuff still. Anyway....so I wanted to show some pics of my clothes on kids, but maybe I shouldn't? Maybe I should just show only pics like the third one. Anyone else have any professional pictures of my outfits on their kids? I would LOVE to see them, who knows, maybe you'll even see them on my blog one day.... Email me :o)
This is going to be a long process with my decision making skills!
 

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