Chalkydoodles Blog » What to Wear http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog Living the best, erasing the rest. Fri, 03 Sep 2010 18:31:12 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 en hourly 1 I see London, I see France… http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2010/07/i-see-london-i-see-france/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2010/07/i-see-london-i-see-france/#comments Mon, 12 Jul 2010 20:21:26 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/?p=1077 Cute just does not adequately describe these adorable, earth-friendly upcycled dresses.   Handmade right here in the U.S.A. using repurposed and vintage materials, these darling frocks take eco-conscious to a whole new level!

 Check out our amazing collection of Children’s Handmade Upcycled Clothing! 

And enjoy FREE SHIPPING on all children’s clothing, including our ever-popular Chalkboard Tees - perfect for Back-to-School.

]]> http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2010/07/i-see-london-i-see-france/feed/ 0 Just Like Dad… http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2010/06/just-like-dad/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2010/06/just-like-dad/#comments Tue, 15 Jun 2010 23:19:19 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/?p=958 It’s not too late to order our “Chalky Tie” Chalkboard Tee for your lil’ man to wear on Father’s day!  Order by Wednesday, 6/16 with standard shipping or contact us about expedited shipping options! 

Can’t think of anything cuter to go with Dad’s new tie!

]]> http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2010/06/just-like-dad/feed/ 0 “How It’s Done” with Modern Frills http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/05/how-its-done-with-modern-frills/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/05/how-its-done-with-modern-frills/#comments Sun, 10 May 2009 19:41:00 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/05/how-its-done-with-modern-frills/
Happy Mother’s Day to all of you wonderful, creative
and enthusiastic moms out there!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Since most every mommy likes frilly stuff, today I want to introduce you to one of my favorite, brand new Etsy shops – Modern Frills. And, as a first in our “How It’s Done” series, we’re focusing on an Etsy start-up shop as well as a sister-to-sister business team!

Modern Frills was created by two of my fellow mommy friends, Jennifer and Kristina – who are also sisters! Our kids go to the same elementary school, and we’ve gotten to know one another by hanging out in the school yard each day when we pick up our kids from school.

Modern Frills offers truly unique designs created with appliques from some of the most popular designer fabrics on girls, boys and womens shirts, tank tops, onesies and tote bags. They also offer darling “couture” bows made with the designer fabrics that you can custom order to match your shirt!
Modern Frills has had a great debut on Etsy, with steady sales, and is already receiving trade show and wholesale inquiries. Plus, Jennifer and Kristina already have a small cult following here in Dallas! You should see all of the little gals running around the neighborhood in their Modern Frills!

I love their take on children’s clothing, because they combine the most popular designer fabrics from Amy Butler, Michael Miller, Anna Maria Horner and Joel Dewberry, with interesting, modern layouts. The colors really pop against the solid tanks and tees, and the fabric combinations just shout sweet and sassy at the same time!

Like most sisters, Kristina and Jennifer are definitely a lot alike, but their differences are also what makes their business partnership the perfect match. Kristina is more on the creative side – she comes up with many of the designs and ideas for new products. Jennifer focuses more on the practical, business side of things – and also helps hold her sister back just enough so that she doesn’t go completely nuts on a creative streak!

Jennifer is also great at reminding Kristina that they want to grow slowly enough that they are still able to focus first on their kids and families.

Some of their newest designs are these adorable tote bags. The little girl silhouette style is my absolute favorite! I love the contrast of the black against the modern fabric, and it’s just so darn sweet.
What I consider to be one of their most genius ideas is their couture kids bows. They’re made using designer fabrics – the same fabrics that you probably already have in your child’s closet! You can custom-request a bow to be made in a fabric to match an outfit you already have, and to go with your new Modern Frills shirt! I love finding accessories that you can mix and match. So, we know that Jennifer and Kristina are definitely creative, and definitely make a great business team. But, how have they been able to launch a new clothing line while juggling 2 households and 5 kids between the two of them?

I asked Jennifer and Kristina to tell me more about their new business, their relationship and how they are keeping things running smoothly at home while nurturing their growing business. So, let’s find out “How It’s Done.”

~~~~~~~
Kristina:

~When people ask you what you “Do” how do you respond? (i.e., work, business, blog, mom, etc.) I usually say that I stay at home with my kids. That is what I do. I may mention Modern Frills as a side note, but I don’t consider it my job. I try to limit my working to when the kids are in school, napping or sleeping. It is tricky sometimes.

~How old are your kids?
Ava Kate is almost 3 and Aidan is 6.

~What are your top goals for your business, career or blog?
Ideally, I would like our business to grow slowly over the next couple of years. Once both my kids are in elementary school, I would like to take up about 20 hours a week. If it becomes more than that, we will have to find help. My kids and my husband are and always will be my top priority.

~What are your top goals for your family and marriage? My top goal for my family and marriage is to always put them as a priority in my life. We are raising our kids in a Christian home with lots of love and happiness. We choose to live every day with lots of laughter together. We have a lot of fun together and I want it to stay that way.

~What are the top 1 or 2 things you do to keep your life in “balance” while you work toward these goals? Slowing down. It seems that we are always have things to do or places to be. We limit the amount of extra curricular activities for the kids so we have time as a family to “just hang out”. We also have date night with our kids individually.

~What is the greatest obstacle or challenge you face in reaching these goals? Not letting the crafty side of me interfere with my family time. When I get an idea, I obsess. I want to make it right away. My sister holds me back. I can be scattered because I want to do 10 things at once. Jennifer helps me stay focused.

~What resources do you use (books, blogs, websites, people) to help encourage and educate you? I get ideas from everything and everywhere. I love, love, love fabric, trim, paper and all things cute. I am just trying to incorporate them into clothes and accessories.

~What do you feel is your most important characteristic in helping you live your life well and keeping things in balance? Attitude. I try to live life with a positive attitude no matter what the circumstances. Sometimes life stinks, but there is always tomorrow.

~What advice would you give to another working/blogging mom if they asked you for it? Don’t let it take you away from your family time. Your family should always be the most important thing in your life. Oh, and also….love what you do and have fun doing it.

~~~~~~~

Jennifer:

~ I am a stay at home mom of 3 kids – was an elementary school teacher for 8 years before our 1st child was born.

~Madeleine is 8, Jacob is 6, and Dylan is 3.

~For our business, I would like for it to grow slowly. Once our youngest child is in kindergarten, I will have more time to devote to the growth of our business so that one day a buyer from Nordstrom or Neimans will see our stuff and want it for their store! :)

~When thinking about our family, we are doing our best to raise caring, confident children in a loving and supportive home. We enjoy spending time together as a family and supporting the kids at whatever it is they are doing…a sport, piano, and school projects.

~To keep a balance, we do not over-schedule our lives. Each of our children typically picks one extra-curricular activity and that allows us time after school and on weekends to relax, go to the park, or go for a walk together. Also, my sister and I belong to a moms group at our church and I really enjoy this time with fellow moms!

~I think the greatest obstacle right now is time. I want ou business to grow, but not to the point that it interferes with being there for my family- so it is a fine line and I have to keep it in check.

~Kristina really is the creative one and she comes up with so many of our ideas. I think for me, an idea can come from so many places…the other day, I got an idea from a pair of shoes that I love.

~Not worrying is a big thing for me. That doesn’t mean that I never worry about something, but I really try to let things go, say a prayer, and focus on what I can change or influence instead of all those things that I can do nothing about.

~Make sure you keep a balance in your life with work and family and enjoy what you are doing!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks, Kristina and Jennifer! We love your Modern Frills and can’t wait to see your success grow (slowly, but surely!)

]]> http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/05/how-its-done-with-modern-frills/feed/ 0 “How It’s Done” with The Handmaiden’s Cottage – Part 2 http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/04/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage-part-2/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/04/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage-part-2/#comments Thu, 02 Apr 2009 02:21:00 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/04/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage-part-2/ Tonight, I’m wrapping up our time with Lynn Jeffries of The Handmaiden’s Cottage on Etsy.

I found this Bible verse on Lynn’s Etsy shop home page tonight: Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaiden of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38)

What I love most about this particular verse is what comes just before it in the passage. Why does Mary feel so confident in her role as the Lord’s “handmaiden?” And why is she so willing to put her own will aside in order to fulfill God’s will for her life?

“For nothing is impossible with God.” (Luke 1:37)

If nothing is impossible with God, then anything is possible if we are following His lead. Thank you for this reminder, Lynn.

Besides sewing, quilting, gardening and, of course, Etsy-ing, Lynn also keeps a sweet little blog entitled “Notes from the Handmaiden.” You can read more about the handmaiden herself here http://handmaidenscottage.blogspot.com/

Read Part 1 of my interview with Lynn here and read below to find out more about her life and her work:

~What resources do you use (books, blogs, websites, people) to help encourage and educate you? I’ve used all those things. I get a lot of inspiration from my customers, also, which is great. So many times, I’ve been asked to create something new and it turns out to be a great seller!

~What do you feel is your most important characteristic in helping you live your life well and keeping things in balance? Making sure your have your priorities straight, because what really matters are the people in your life that you care about.

~What advice would you give to another working/blogging mom if they asked you for it? You can’t be everything to everyone, just take comfort in the fact that you are doing the best that you can. If you’re doing what makes you happy, it will have a positive effect on everyone in your world.

And that’s “How It’s Done!” Thanks again, Lynn.

]]> http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/04/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage-part-2/feed/ 0 “How It’s Done” – with the Handmaiden’s Cottage http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage/#comments Wed, 01 Apr 2009 02:32:00 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage/ This week in our “How It’s Done” series, let’s step into the Handmaiden’s Cottage with Lynn Jeffries. Lynn is the mother of twins – and a grandmother of three!

I first got to know Lynn when she lovingly designed a layette set for my niece (hand quilted and embroidered baby booties with a matching bonnet – so very sweet.) And, as I’ve gotten to know Lynn better while working with her on this feature, I have truly been inspired by her creativity and simplistic approach to her work and her life.

Lynn’s Etsy shop features handmade clothing, quilts and other delightful things made on her “no-frills” sewing machine in her home studio – in an actual cottage!

Here’s what Lynn has to say about her cottage home in her Etsy profile:

“… I love living the creative life! I am inspired by our little cottage that sits on over two acres only a stone’s throw away from the City limits of our small community. I grew up in the country near my Grandparent’s dairy farm only five miles away from where I live now. I have managed to travel a little in between!

I have a liberal arts degree from a Jesuit University and my career was in finance. I am so lucky to have found my true passion now. I’ve been doing all types of needlework since I was a child and feel like I’ve finally “come home.”

It was Lynn’s needlework that first drew me into her shop. With her “Child’s Artwork” custom quilted pillow, she transforms your child’s drawing into the perfect gift. Her quiltwork is also hand-done and and adorable – especially on her children’s clothing and accessories.

Lynn is also a volunteer Master Gardener through the Ohio State University Extension Office in (her) area and gardening is also one of (her) great loves, especially flower gardening.

Lynn says, “My mother (whom I dearly miss) had a very, very green thumb! I love selling on Etsy because it is one place where your creative efforts are so appreciated. My customers, well they’re the best! They challenge me, they design with me, they become my friends.”

So, let’s get to know our new friend, Lynn a little better:

~When people ask you what you Do how do you respond? I used to hate that question before I started my own business through Etsy, because I took an early buy out from my government finance job, so I was technically “retired” at 47! Now I say I’m a business owner..it feels a lot better!

I think I work harder now than ever, but I love what I do, so it’s hard to call it work!

~How old are your kids (or grandkids)? I have 32 year old boy (man) and girl (woman) twins and three grandchildren, Brianna 6, Alivia 2, and Noah 4 months. They all live in Florida and we live in Ohio.

~What are your top goals for your business, career or blog? I guess I haven’t set any lofty goals for myself, just wanted to bring some extra money in and in the meantime be able to create something that has a heirloom quality and provide a way for people to bring their own visions to fruition through a creative partnership.

~What are your top goals for your family? I guess that would be to remain as close to my family as possible. When I make things (other than custom orders) I make them in sizes that fit my grandchildren, so I’m thinking about them when I’m creating.

~What are the top 1 or 2 things you do to keep your life in balance while you work toward these goals? Take time out for exercise and prayer, which I don’t do perfectly!

~What is the greatest obstacle or challenge you face in reaching these goals? Because I love what I do, I could “work” nonstop. It’s easy to get caught up in working constantly because you control how much you do.

Wouldn’t you like to hear more from Lynn? Stop back by tomorrow for Part 2 of our time with Lynn Jeffries from The Handmaiden’s Cottage.

]]> http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-the-handmaidens-cottage/feed/ 1 “How It’s Done” with Devon Rose – Part 2 http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose-part-2/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose-part-2/#comments Wed, 25 Mar 2009 04:04:00 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose-part-2/
Today, I’m wrapping up our time with designer and mommy, Emily from Devon Rose.

Read on below and here about her life and business and how she keeps everything in balance. Then, check out her brand new Etsy shop, The Payne where you’ll find her eclectic and comfy take on women’s ready-to-wear.

~What resources do you use (books, blogs, websites, people) to help encourage and educate you? Devon and I spend a lot of time at the bookstore. I’m constantly checking out whats going on with women’s and girl’s fashion. Mostly, I enjoy Japanese and British fashion mags.

As far as books on the subject, I highly recommend “The Fashion Designer Survival Guide” (an insiders look at starting and running your own fashion business)by Mary Gehlhar.

~What do you feel is your most important characteristic in helping you live your life well and keeping things in balance? I’ve always manged to keep a youthful attitude (I would say almost to the point of immaturity up until the birth of my daughter) but, I feel that it really helps me to put things into prospective and not “sweat the small stuff” all the time.


A youthful attitude..its one of the many things that I love about my husband, who is always curious about everything, can turn the most mundane project into a ridiculously funny moment, and always knows how to make me smile.

~What advice would you give to another working/blogging mom if they asked you for it? Try to keep things in perspective. Don’t beat yourself up if you weren’t able to complete everything on your “to do” list for today. Remember to take time for yourself to just chill and be happy :)

And that’s How It’s Done – thanks, Emily! Now, I’m going to do a little more window shopping at The Payne…

]]> http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose-part-2/feed/ 0 “How It’s Done” with Devon Rose http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose/ http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose/#comments Mon, 23 Mar 2009 21:22:00 +0000 Lyn Pollard http://www.chalkydoodles.com/blog/2009/03/how-its-done-with-devon-rose/ This week, let’s get to know Emily of the wonderfully innovative Etsy shop, Devon Rose. Emily is a clothing designer and full time mom to one-and-a-half year-old Devon Rose.
I stumbled onto Devon Rose a few months ago, and immediately fell in love with the classic, yet quirky line of children’s clothing.

I bought a pair of these “Long-Winters Nap Leggings”for my 3-year-old (which she wears with absolutely everything!), as well as a sweet white lace “Sundays Blouse”. Both were darling and very well made. Emily was also willing to work with me on the sizing (my daughter is extra-long and extra-lean).

I browsed the Devon Rose spring line today and am now eyeing the “Sixties Spring Shift.” Make sure to take a peek at the shop (and you’ll get to see more pictures of Emily’s muse, Devon Rose, too!)
~ What Emily has to say about her Etsy Shop: Devon Rose makes handmade treasures for the free-spirited, firey and creative soul that is your beautiful child!

~What Emily has to say about her inspiration: Devon Rose, born August 30th 2007 is our inspiration and our model for our new baby’s clothing line. We are proud “30 something” parents that love to create beautiful and lasting things. We know that you cherish your baby and we want our pieces to be your favorites to dress her in!

So – I know you must be asking – how does Emily design amazing clothing, run a successful Etsy shop, blog and still have time to nurture little Devon Rose? Let’s find out…

~What are your top goals for your business? I’m slowly (but steadily!) building a successful design company for Devon to take over as the Designer when she’s ready.

~What are your top goals for your family and marriage? It’s so important to me to make sure that Isaac (my husband) and I never let all of the everyday drama of life diminish the romance in our relationship. Isaac works a lot, so I really try to work on keeping things light and cherishing the time that we do have together. I spend ALL of my time with Devon and she is awesome at keeping things light and happy. To her, everything is hilarious and amazing!

~What are the top 1 or 2 things you do to keep your life in “balance” while you work toward these goals? I make sure to take a lot of breaks though out the day (from all of that cutting and sewing) to just focus on Devon. I take her to the park or to the bookstore (she LOVES to look at books) We just have fun and goof around together. It also helps to break up the monotony I sometimes feel from sewing too much. I also make sure to give myself some “me” time -so important! I recommend nightly bubble baths!

~What is the greatest obstacle or challenge you face in reaching these goals? Sometimes I have the habit of falling into the slump of focusing too much on the negative instead of all the positive aspects of my life. My husband is amazing at pulling me out of that negative mind space.

Well, I’m inspired already. Check back tomorrow for more questions and answers from Emily of Devon Rose and for the scoop on Emily’s new line of women’s clothing! Yes, she makes women’s clothing, too!

Our “How It’s Done” series focuses on women who balance work, mothering and family.

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