Well, since I launched the Daily Artisan Spotlight on April 28th, it’s popularity seems to have grown every day. Yesterday I had 28 submissions for the largest day yet! More and more people are dropping by to check out the various artisans as well and yesterday this blog had over 200 unique visitors! I think that’s fantastic success and a tribute to the wonderful artisans that have been in the spotlight so far! I’m also happy to say that with the current submissions, the feature is already booked into July so if you want to get scheduled, you’d best get in line quickly!

Of course, all of this success comes at a price. Namely, that I spent about an hour tonight just getting a weeks worth prepped and scheduled to run! It’s a price I’m perfectly willing to pay to help give exposure to all of the great artisans out there but I wanted to let everyone know as I like to notify everyone of their run dates and since it’s taking me a while to get things scheduled, you might not get an email until this weekend!

Another thing I am considering is automating the spotlight process so that when the form is submitted, I get the emailed results but the system automatically generates and schedules the post then sends out the email to notify the artisan of the date. I used to be a programmer in my previous work life, so I can get this done but to be honest, before I put the work into it, I want to know if it’s worth the sweat and tears! So please place a comment here and let me know that you appreciate and pay attention to this feature before I make the final call! After all, if no one really appreciates the effort, I can use the time to work on my own crafting projects!

Let me know how YOU feel!

Recently, I’ve been seeing an increase in Etsy forum postings regarding neutral feedback. These posts are generally from those who have received neutral feedback with no descriptive text associated with it. These posters are also generally upset that they have been given neutral feedback without having been contacted by the seller to resolve an issue first. While I have never left neutral feedback for a seller either on Etsy nor anyplace else, I find it mildly perplexing that sellers seem to get so bent out of shape over this. As such, I thought I’d put forth my views and see if there are others who see it like I do. Read More

The ‘Daily Artisan Spotlight’ is a regular feature on Mindless Pursuits intended to provide insight and exposure to the tons of talented artisans working today. Please comment and give them some encouragement and check out their work! If you would like to be considered for the Spotlight, click on the ‘Free Press’ link above!

What is your shop?
Beaux Bangles (http://beauxbangles.etsy.com)

What is your art/craft?
My signature pieces are my ornate one of a kind belt buckles. In our shop you will also find handmade glass, and jewelry in different styles. There are two of us and we both have split personalities.

Describe your style in 2 words:
Baroque Bling

What is your favorite piece and why?
At this moment I love white and gold Baroque Bling belt buckle in Gemini. It is just soooooo fancy! Of course my next piece is always my real favorite - right now I’m working on a Pisces buckle using real shells along with the blingy stuff. Coming soon!

What is the most memorable piece of advice you’ve ever received?
You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can point yourself in any direction you choose.

What is the one piece of advice you’d give?
Housework can wait.