Becky OH!, one of my favorite handbag designers, is our next featured shop in the ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’. Becky of Becky OH! designs and hand makes the loveliest fabric bags. Contemporary in design, they are totally elegant and look completely haute couture. The fabric choices are stunning and you will be hard pressed to pick just one as a favorite. The fabrics run the gamut from woven flax and silk blend, rich velvet, canvas and woven cotton to silk dupioni, italian wool, wool crepe and satin. There are also plenty of styles to choose from for yourself or your fashion diva gift recipient. There’s the great little wristlet called the Apropos, the Bolsa Clutch and the larger shoulder bag called the Intaglio among other charming styles. This is one handbag designer who is on her way up the fashion ladder!

Treat yourself or surprise your fashion forward friend this seasons and save 20% off all Becky OH! bags with the coupon code 12days. This offer will expire November 30th.

Leave a comment below with the name of your favorite Becky OH! style for a chance to win a Bolsa Clutch. One random commenter will win a designer’s choice Bolsa Clutch. This contest will end November 24th at 11:59 am EST. THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED.

Happy Thanksgiving Day to all of my U.S. Readers and Happy Thursday to all my international readers. Today’s featured shop in the ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’ is Bidwell Botanicals. Bidwell Botanicals offers luscious bath and body goodies that do your body & soul good.

They offer lots of showstopping gifts like the Sugar Cookie Body Scrub, Peach Sorbet Scrub, Hydrating Body Milk, Shea Butter Body Wash, and Pomegranate Sugar Scrub. Plus, the Peppermint Foot Soak and the Silk Shake Bubbling Milk Bath look to me like the kind of gifts you just might not be able to part with. Bidwell Botanicals also offers some great gift sets, including the Honey Bamboo Spa Box, the Chocolate Obsessions Set, and the Mojito Gift Pack among others.

Help someone de-stress this season with a gift from Bidwell Botanicals and use the code HOLIDAY for 20% off until December 15th.

Instead of gorging yourself on pumpkin pie today, leave a comment below for your chance to win a Spiced Pumpkin Spa Set from Bidwell Botanicals. This contest ends November 23rd at 11:59am EST and one random commenter will be chosen as the winner. THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED.

I never understood the Thanksgiving holiday when I was a kid. I thought it was the worst possible holiday…being stuck in a car traveling, having to kiss smelly old relatives, eating yucky turkey, and there were no presents, bunnies, elves, jellybeans or costumes. It’s only as I’ve gotten older that I understand the allure Thanksgiving had for all the grownups in my life when I was a kid. It’s exactly because there are no presents or bunnies or costumes that made Thanksgiving significant for them. I realize now that there is more to life and some things in life are fleeting and some things remain.

This Thanksgiving, I am thankful for the things that remain. Family, who take you as you are and who help you through tough times and who you in turn can help through the rough spots. Friends who you can pick up with after losing touch for months or even years. Good jobs and leaving bad jobs. Things that make you feel alive, in the moment and totally aware of how awesome life, the universe and everything really is. I am thankful that I am able to spend my time doing something that I love doing and I am thankful to you, dear readers, without whom that would not be possible.

I hope to spread a little bit of joy to you all this Thanksgiving by sharing what I am thankful for and to hopefully help you remember those things in your life that you have to be thankful for. Have a lovely, peaceful and thankful day.

XOXO,

Jen

Today’s Reader Fixx top ten indie pixx were submitted by Tala of Corvus Corax. Tala came up with a great themed list she calls “well-dressed.” I call it well done. Thanks, Tala for a great indie list!

Here’s Tala’s top ten indie pixx. If you would like submit your pixx, read how here.

1. I firmly believe that everyone should have at least one crown or tiara in their wardrobe, and wear it as often (and with as much regal pride) as possible. Pavoreal of Etsy makes absolutely stunning tiaras. Check out the rest of the store too; she’s got some very gorgeous and unique stuff.

2. Next up, decoration of the neck: these necklaces by Neile use real butterfly wings to create eye-catching and stunning pendants.

3. Your neck is decorated, but what if it gets cold? I’ve been lusting after a Lulette scarf for years. You can pick your own colors, your own fonts, your own words or designs and create a scarf that’s all you.

4. While we’re at it with the whole “make it your own” idea, why not make it yourself? For a shirt, pick up your scissors, turn on the sewing machine, and cast your eyes upon the designs at Fitzpatterns.

5. And what about something for the wrist? I Love Blocks has some great and clever bracelets.

6. Like necks, arms/wrists/hands can not only be decorated, but kept warm. Again in the spirit of doing things yourself, check out Hello Yarn’s tutorial for making thrummed mittens, and then pop over to her store for great handspun yarn and the fleece to thrum with. So very toasty.

7. I suggest next heading over to Etsy’s Pink Lemonade and picking up a bag, so your braceleted-and-be-gloved hands have it easy handling all your stuff:

8. At this point, our proverbial indie dresser is still naked from the waist down. Made With Love By Hannah can take care of that, with absolutely charming skirts. I lust madly after the apple pickin’ skirt.

9. Again returning to the handcrafting skills of the ultimate indie do-it-yourselfer, those skirts would go wonderfully with socks hand knit from Cookie A’s gorgeous patterns. I will make myself Twisted Flower socks someday, I swear.

10. And finally for shoes, check out these versatile shoes handmade from birch and recycled tires in Chicago by Mohop. The ribbon possibilities are endless.

Today’s featured shop for the ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’ is Lucky Ducky Designs. Whether you are shopping for your own kiddos, your nieces and nephews or your friend’s little tot, you will find handmade indie goodness for the little ones on your list.

I am a regular customer of Lucky Ducky Designs and when I need a baby present, I like to get one of their cuddle blankets. They are super soft and aren’t made with your usual boring pink & blue prints, but have a little more pizazz. They are always a big hit with the kids…since they are so soft and are kid-sized they make the best ‘blankies’. If you are looking for more than just a cuddle blanket, there are Blanket Sets, Bib & Burp Cloth Sets, Diaper Bags and more. The quality of the products and the customer service is first rate at this shop too.

Use the code ifixx12days for 15% off at Lucky Ducky Designs through November 30th and check those tots off your holiday shopping list.

Also, leave a comment below to win a winner’s choice cuddle blanket set, a $40 value. Make sure to mention who you would be gifting this prize to in your comments, whether it will go to your own little one, a niece or nephew or your godchild and maybe the Indie Fixx elf will pull your name out of the hat. This contest ends November 22nd at 8am EST. One random commenter will win the prize. THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED.

This week’s Indie Artist Fixx is with Jill Bliss of blissen. The very talented Jill creates useful artisan goods made from recycled or sustainable fabrics and papers. All blissen goods are designed and made by jill bliss in her studio, or in collaboration with other indie businesses. Many of her goodies are inspired by the nature found in her Pacific Northwest home… and happen to be among my very favorite goodies.

Jill is also an accomplished artist and designer and she is available for freelance work. Her art & design portfolio is available here. She has done such varied projects as creating custom illustrations for weddings invitations, murals, web design and more.

I am in love with Jill’s dreamy artistic style and I am so glad that I was able to virtually sit down with her and ask her a few questions.

See my interview with Jill of blissen below.

1. What’s the name of your business and what do create and sell?

blissen is my business. i make artisan goods from reused materials, mainly useful items from fabric and papers.

2. When did you get your start and what made you decide to take the plunge?

blissen is a hobby-gone-crazy. in 2001 i was a freelance designer, illustrator and website designer when i launched my website to showcase and maybe sell things i made from left-over materials in my studio.

3. What’s the design creation process like for you?

most of the things i design are useful items that i, friends or customers need. the artwork that appears on some of the items is inspired by my love for the forest and the beach.

(Continued)

The next featured shop in the ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’ is Laurel Denise. Laurel creates delicate glass art jewelry embellished with inspirational sayings and/or unique illustrations. Each piece is handmade using translucent glass, small drills, thin paper, and her creativity.

I think her creations make the most memorable gifts and they are great for those special gift-giving occasions when you want to really make a statement with your gift. Choose the Simply Stated Collection if you have someone to say with your gift…choose from hope, forever, love, simple joy and more. The Art & Soul Collection features simple yet inspirational illustrations…like the heart, teapot, raven, and a maple seed among others.

Use the coupon INDIELOVE for 20% off everything at Laurel Denise until December 30th and make some special person’s holiday one that they will never forget.

Now a gift for you, leave a comment on this post for your chance to win the Laurel Denise Silent Night Necklace in sterling, pictured below and valued at $78. I will pick one random commenter to win the necklace and the contest will end at 9am EST, November 21st. THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED.

Congrats to Amy from Rhode Island who won the Bella Lucce gift set!

The first featured ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’ shop is Bella Luccè, one of my all-time favorite bath & body shops. Bella Luccè products are made with high quality all-natural ingredients and that makes all the difference. They are among my favorite luxurious decadent treats and their products make the kind of gifts your friends will never forget.

There’s the Wildberry Silk & Honey Lotion and Body Wash, which is light, sweet, fruity and extra softening and moisturizing–I really love the fruity, but not overpowering smell that lingers on your skin all day long from this scent. The Gingerbread & the Cranberry Fig Lotion, Body Wash & Sugar Scrub combos are the perfect holiday themed body delights. The Peruvian Chocolate Bliss Crème is very accurately named and will make the perfect stocking stuffer for your favorite chocoholic. The Vanilla-Coconut Whipped Shea is the ultimate skin-softening luxury and you should totally wrap this one up for yourself to put under the tree. Finally, the Chianti & Grape Seed Crush Body Scrub, which is my all-time favorite Bella Lucce product, will totally wow your giftee with its luxurious mix of Mediterranean olive oil, crushed grape seeds, blackberry fibers and luscious red wine.

Use the discount code INDIE12 from November 19th-30th for 12% off your Bella Luccè purchases. Bella Luccè is also offering free shipping on orders over $75–no code is necessary.

Plus, leave a comment on this post for your chance to win the Bella Luccè Cranberry Fig Deluxe Holiday Gift Set, pictured below and valued at $75. I will pick one random commenter to win the Gift set. This contest will end at 11:59 PM EST, November 19th. THIS CONTEST HAS ENDED!

The ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’ is here just in time for you to begin your indie holiday shopping. “What’s the ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’?” you ask.

Well, every day between November 19th - 30th I will be featuring one of my favorite indie shops and highlighting those products I think would make good gifts. Plus I will be sharing an exclusive coupon code and offering a product or gift certificate giveaway. Every day a different shop…and every day a coupon code and a contest. EVERY day for 12 days! The gift ideas and coupon codes are to help with your shopping and the contests are to keep your spirits up and merry.

Make sure to check back each day between November 19th - 30th for your chance to win goodies from Becky OH!, Super Maggie, Dejarnette New Orleans, Kailo Chic and more!

The ‘12 Days of Indie Holiday Shopping’ will start tomorrow, November 19th.

Check out My Holiday Wishlist. It’s filled with goodies I hope Santa leaves for me under the tree…that is, if he doesn’t check his naughty list too closely.

Whoops a little late on my Mintd Friday posting—but, better late than never.

This Le Lapin pendant necklace is totally redonkulisciousally cute! You know I love me some bunnies.

Those cool moms have struck again and put together their coolest holiday gift guide yet. Take a look for the ultimate gifts for babies, kids, tweens and even some pretty cool stuff for the adults on your list. There’s even a few indies on the list…see if you can spot ‘em!

Love this Victoriana Pendant by Alison MacLeod and available at Papa Stour. I also love, love, love Papa Stour. Created in 2005, Papa Stour is an online shop which is dedicated to showcasing the very best artisan made products made in Scotland. The products are truly lovely and range from jewelry, scarves and homewares to sculpture, paintings and photography.

I love all things Scottish, Ewan McGregor is my secret love crush, so it is no wonder that I love Papa Stour. I think you will to. Here are some other wonderful Papa Stour offerings.

I participate in a couple of secret santa gift exchanges this time of year. One in particular, for an online community of women indie business owners I’ve been participating in since 2004. Well, I just received my gift from my secret santa, who is not so secret anymore, and I was totally blown away. Carol from Kimono Momo sent me one of her awesomely gorgeous kimono silk scarves and a coordinating obi clutch. They are now the most beautiful accessories I own and I am dreaming up occasions for which to wear them—although, I will most likely end up wearing them in my home office while I’m in my jammies.

Seriously, if you are looking for a truly stunning gift this season or you want to treat yourself to a little Memoir of a Geisha/Madame Butterfly fantasy, visit Kimono Momo. Just let me know if you want me to drop an email ‘hint’ to your significant other, because some things are just way too important to leave to chance.

Carol also sells lovely Japanese fabrics.

This week’s Reader Fixx top ten pixx were put together by Jennifer of Hambone and Jennicakes and the Sampler. Jennifer makes lovely vintage-inspired and retro kitschy aprons, snarky eye quilts, and cupcake cute quilts among other stuff, which she sells at Hambone and Jennicake. She also works over at the Sampler and is the hardworking chick behind the Samplergram and is responsible for promoting the Sampler and all the great crafters and designers who contribute. Needless to say, Jennifer and I communicate via email a lot.

Here’s Jennifer’s top ten indie pixx. If you would like submit your pixx, read how here.

The Sampler - there’s always so much great stuff going on in Sampler Town!

Felt Club - the coolest craft fair anywhere!

Cate Anevski - I have two of her prints in my living room!

Letter Writers Alliance was founded by crafty stationers, and is the coolest club I’ve ever joined!

Brocante Home Chronicles - Not a craft blog per se, but it inspires me so much!

Motormouth Press - I’ll be sending her ornament cards for Christmas this year!

Needlecrafter Pattern Library is a great source of free vintage embroidery patterns

Sew, Mama, Sew! - I love the selection in the shop, and the project ideas on the blog!

Lavish is one of my favorite places to shop in San Francisco!

CraftyPod - always a great listen!

Do you ever order drinks just for the cute swizzle stick that usually comes with it? Okay, me neither, but they are always a nice bonus to my margarita or cosmo. Especially, the more outlandish, kitschy or retro ones that you find.

If you like your swizzle sticks, you will definitely like the new line of jewelry called Swizzlet by Nina Dinoff. Swizzlets are made from making molds of vintage plastic swizzle sticks and cocktail picks and casting them in metal. Then they are formed and altered into bracelets and pins. You know your girls would like one of those bracelets pictured above.

Jennifer Perkins is one busy lady! She is the creative force behind Naughty Secreatary Club, writes a popular blog, is a founding member of the Austine Craft Mafia (the momma to all the other Craft Mafias), a Stitch organizer, is writing a book (Naughty Secretary Club: Jewelry for the Working the Girl…due out summer 2008) and has a show on the diy network called Craft Lab. Whew, I’m tired just listing all her jobs…I don’t know how she does it all.

Jennifer is a real inspiration to me and I am so happy to have been able to interview her for the Indie Artist Fixx this week.

See Jennifer’s interview below.

1. What’s the name of your business and what do create and sell?

Naughty Secretary Club - I make kitschy, crazy, extra large jewelry most times using vintage bits.

2. When did you get your start and what made you decide to take the plunge?

5 years ago or so when I was debating on whether to take the plunge and make Naughty Secretary Club my full time job or not I carefully weighed my options first. I was at the point where I was working as a secretary from 9-5 and then coming home and pouring resin and putting together orders until midnight. When my jewelry started paying me the same salary as answering the phone did it was time. I had a feature in Bust magazine right at that point that produced so many orders there was no way I could fill them if I didn’t quit my job so that was the final push I needed to take the plunge. I have done Naughty Secretary Club as my full time job ever since.

3. How do you come up with the concepts for your designs?

Geesh I’m not sure I start with a concept, I just kind of go. Yesterday my younger sister brought over a psychedelic print 60’s dress she had painted Abe Lincoln on for the Stitch Fashion Show. My job is to make matching jewelry. I studied the print and colors of the dress and made a whole slew of baubles just based on this. We can choose which pieces we use with the dress later, but the concept started with a piece of fabric.

4. What’s been your biggest, or one of your biggest accomplishments, so far?

I have a book coming out called Naughty Secretary Club: Jewelry for the Working Girl in summer 2008 on North Light Books. That makes me really want to put a star on my chart because writing books, especially ones with secretarial jewelry spins, is not as easy as it might look.

5. Tell us one funny/goofy/silly thing about yourself.

I think Grease 2 is way better than Grease 1 and at any given time I might bust out and start singing “Cool Rider”. I want a C-o-o-l R-i-d-e-r.

(Continued)

Discovered in my Greenjeans newsletter this morning…Lulu Smith. Lulu creates contemporary resin and sterling silver jewelry that really belongs in my jewelry box. I like the Kapow earrings, ring and bracelet designs the best. Her emphasis is on line and color—her resin colors are even hand-pigmented. Just beautiful!

New in the Indie Fixx today: Smoking Kangaroo and Carrot Envy notecards from Pistachio Press, etched copper and illustrated acrylic necklaces from bumble sea, flora journals from Artful Sentiments and faux suede Deer keyrings from In My Backyard.