Etsy Interview with All Things Tinsel

I've always collected vintage jewelry. Everywhere I see it I'll grab anything that catches my eye...yard sales, estate sales, antique fairs, elderly peoples' homes...just kidding, but I'm always tempted! When I was pregnant with my last baby I couldn't move and was too sick (and large) to do anything, so I started making jewelry to feel creative (also it was all I could do in a horizontal manner). I bought a few supplies here and there, mixed them up with my vintage pieces, and then listed a bunch of things on etsy.com. It just sort of took off from there! I make a lot of bridal jewelry because I think today's bride is looking for unique pieces her bridesmaids can wear again and again. Like I said, I'm absolutely in love with Christmas, both for the history and the decor, so All Things Tinsel was a natural name for it all.

When and how did you originally find Etsy?

My parents are artists and I'm always looking for ways to get my mom's work out there. She's amazing and seems to create something with every breath...I call her Midas (always reminds me of the creative side of God). When I stumbled upon etsy I freaked out! It was like artist land! I told her she had to open a shop. Her shop name is NJPDesigns.etsy.com and I want everything she makes.

What is unique about Etsy and what about the website do you like the most in regards to your shop?

Etsy is so much fun for both artists and admirers! We buy each others' work and are able to support the artist community while simultaneously promoting our own work. Also, blogs, shops and boutiques can find you easily and they come to you! It's definitely a lot of work, but with my shop All Things Tinsel, I can decide how much work I want to put into it at any given time. It also allows me to stay at home with my kids (although I can't call myself a homemaker right now because my home is NEVER clean. Ever).

What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?

My mom, a.k.a. Midas. Everything she touches turns to a sparkling, magical piece of wonderment. There is no one in the world like her...and my dad, who's crazy talented and can build anything out of nothing (and everything). My entire house is filled with things I've either stolen from their house (they weren't using them), or snagged out of the trash because they didn't think they were good enough to keep. I beg to differ.

What is your favorite piece you've created and why?

I love the Glammy Sparkleson Necklace and the Pink Mechanic Necklace. I've sold several different versions (and kept one for myself). It's a tangled mess of lovelies and sparkles. There are roses, rhinestones, birds and chain...what's not to love? It goes with anything and doesn't look like something everyone else has.

What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?

At first I just wanted to make enough to buy myself some new clothes after my last baby. Now I'm on a mission to create unique, one of a kind pieces that help women feel as beautiful as they are. Jewelry doesn't accomplish that but it helps...like tinsel! It brings out the tree's natural beauty and adds a little glamour. Cheesy yes. But also true.

Do you have any new creations in the works? If so, what can shoppers expect to see from you soon?

ALWAYS! Right now I'm going crazy for anything asymmetrical with vintage metal and lucite flower necklaces woven through them.

Here are a few to start:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53031196/lilac-lovelies-necklace
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53032916/wreath-out-and-touch-someone-necklace
http://www.etsy.com/listing/53032351/belle-of-the-fall-necklace?ref=v1_other_1

All different colors - especially pastels - are coming soon. Look out for more tangles (representing my crazy life) and pearls and rhinestone twisted everywhere!

Where can readers find out about more information regarding your jewelry and other creations and possible special offers (including additional websites, blogs, facebook, etc)?

My pieces were recently featured on the blog stylemepretty.com in a French Inspired Bridal Shower. Absolutely gorgeous event!

You can find me on facebook where I post every new piece I list for the fans so they can grab them first! I also post exclusive sales and upcoming shows for facebook fans every now and then, as well as every etsy treasury, blog and website where All Things Tinsel pieces are featured.

The new bridal boutique called Style By Soca is carrying 3 exclusive pieces I created just for them!

They can also send me a message on etsy or facebook if they're looking for something specific and request custom pieces that are affordable and one of a kind!