Jillian's Handmade Jewelry

SALE!

2009-08-09T14:56:00.007-04:00

I have a sale going on in my shop RIGHT NOW!!

10% OFF the purchase of 1 item.
20% OFF the purchase of 2 items.
30% OFF the purchase of 3 items.

Check out some of the items currently listed in my shop...

Stop on in!

Elite Blog Artist Award

2009-08-01T10:40:00.003-04:00

I'd like to thank my friend Duni of Lovely Purses for giving me this award. It is quite the honor to know people enjoy reading my blog!

I'd like to honor Andrea of Andrea C reates with this award.
I'd also like to honor Mary Grace of Mary Grace ...6 Kids and Jewellery

Last weekend was a success! I appreciate Etsy Admin for including me in their email and because of it I had A LOT of sales. It was a busy week packaging everything, and getting it ready to ship out but I got through it. Next time I will be better prepared, I didn't know what to expect.

I am all caught up and now I need to work on restocking my shop with some new items. And to do that I needed to do some shopping for jewelry supplies. I've spent the last through days going through my stuff and see what more I needed. I've had fun buying from other Etsy sellers and supporting their burgeoning businesses.

Off to do more shopping...have a great weekend!!

A lovely weekend!

2009-07-26T08:47:00.006-04:00

This has been a wonderful but busy weekend! I was featured in one of Etsy's weekend deals emails which increased my sales. I was so excited when i received the convo from MaryMary letting me know I was going to be featured.

I also did a lot of jewelry making this weekend. Trying to keep my shop full, to keep customers coming...it's a lot of fun trying to keep up w/ the demand. Here are some of my new items...

Have a great weekend everyone!

GREAT SUPPLIES!!

2009-07-20T19:02:00.005-04:00

I just wanted to spread the word...there's a great place to get hand formed ear wires and circles. I've visited there many times and each time I am NEVER disappointed. The website is http://metamorphsupplies.etsy.com/ . Seriously beautiful items, check her out and give a fellow Etsy-ian some love!

Those are just a few of her items...stop over to her shop to see more!!

Way Too LOOOONG...

2009-07-19T13:28:00.003-04:00

I can't believe I've been away from my blog for so long. A lot has happened though, which is why I've been away.

I believe in a previous post I mentioned I got a new job...the job is quite demanding and I absolutely love it but it keeps me away from the computer in the evening. I want to relax and unwind, but things should be settling down, I'll still be crazy busy but I shouldn't have as much to do all at once. Hopefully I can bring my attention back to what needs it... Thank you to everyone who stuck around and didn't abandon my ship, I promise I'll be around more frequently. :)

I'm currently have a Christmas in July sale, hence the Santa in the swim trunks. My items are currently BUY 1 GET 1 50% OFF, or 10% OFF 1 item and Free shipping within the US.

BlueNostalgia!

2009-05-24T22:39:00.007-04:00

BlueNostalgia, one of my good friends on Etsy is having a Memorial day sale! I am absolutely in love with her shop and would love for you all to go check out her sale.

Here are the details of her sale: Every single order this Fri-Mon weekend will get a FREE pair of earrings!!! (Unlisted and One of a Kind)

She is also offering 20% off anything on the last page in her shop.(enter code "Weekend Deals" in notes to seller at checkout)

The first picture shown is taken directly off the last page of her shop, so it is something you could purchase and receive 20% off.

The rest other two images are just beautiful items from her shop!

Stop on by http://bluenostalgia.etsy.com/ for some beautiful items!!

Jessica London

2009-05-20T07:55:00.001-04:00

Just wanted to comment on my last post. I love Jessica London clothes and just did a review for a top I bought, you can add it to your blog so I did.

Okay time to work!

My Review of Linen Blouse With Puffed Sleeves

2009-05-20T07:50:00.001-04:00

Jessica London

J.G. Hook® Linen Blouse. The season's must-have new blouse with pretty puffed sleeves and shirred details in pure classic linen. 28" long. Machine wash. Imported.

Very cute!

Jillian Western NY 5/20/2009

Sizing: Feels true to size

Length: Feels true to length

Sleeve Length: Feels true to length

Pros: Good Fit, Stylish, Great Color, Comfortable

Best Uses: Casual Wear, Wear To Work

Describe Yourself: Casual, Sexy, Bargain Shopper, Trendy, Classic, Career

I love the blouse, it is a great color and fits very well everywhere but the sleeves. I have larger arms, but even with the cap sleeves unbuttoned they are a little snug. Not so much to be uncomfortable or keep me from wearing it, but that is my only complaint.

()

Update!

2009-05-16T21:02:00.005-04:00

So my sister's prom jewelry both earrings and necklace were completed and taken to her for her prom tonight. I was worried she wouldn't like it or it wouldn't match well...and I worried for nothing, she LOVED them! She had seen the pictures but because a camera can only do so much with sparkles she wasn't sure what it was actually going to look like. When I pulled them out of their packaging she went 'OOOOOOHHHH'. And seemed very happy!!! Here's a couple pictures of the earrings, they're not great pictures...but hopefully it shows okay.

I also have to report that I FINALLY got my creative vibe back. It's been missing for the past couple weeks due to my new job, I've just been so pooped. Today I sat down and got right to work, I made about 6 pairs of earrings and 1 necklace in just a few hours. Idea after idea popped into my head, I was thrilled. I didn't get a chance to take any pictures because I didn't finish until it was nearly dark...but hopefully I can work on that part and listing some of them tomorrow.

Okay, it's time to eat some dinner! Take care everyone!

Senior Prom.

2009-05-10T16:35:00.006-04:00

Hello everyone! As always, I apologize for disappearing for a few days. This new job is really beating me up (not literally) and I just do not feel like doing anything but relaxing when I get home.

A few weeks ago I told my youngest sister that I would love to design her prom necklace and earrings for free so she could be my walking advertisement. This is her senior prom, and I remember how it important it is to have one of a kind everything! My plan was to get it done early so that when she excitedly showed her friends her dress she could also show them her jewelry...there by selling another necklace or two to her friends. WEEEELLL that didn't exactly happen, I finished it this morning and I'm pretty proud of it. Here are some pictures...

So what do you think?? Do you think an 18 yr old girl will like it? I sent her a picture via text and haven't gotten a response yet, but she may be working. Not sure! I'm also making her earrings but haven't done those yet...maybe tomorrow.

Her dress is a very yellowy tangerine color so the beads I found will hopefully match the dress. But the reason I used mainly clear beads was so that it would match well.

Okay, off to make some meatballs for dinner. BYE!

My First Treasury!!

2009-05-02T22:31:00.002-04:00

I created my first treasury...I want to do a print screen of it, and will work on that for tomorrow but for now here's the link check it out!
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=55938

There is some real talent on Etsy and it took me a long time to decide who to choose. Give them all some love! Thanks everyone!

FEATURED IN A BLOG!!

2009-04-28T19:15:00.004-04:00

Yay! Little ole me is featured in a blog!

Dragon's Den has been kind enough to feature me in her blog. It is a wonderful article and I appreciate it sooo much! Be sure to head on over and check it out.

You should also definitely check out her shop, she has lots of yummy candles, soaps and lotions!

Thanks sooo much Amanda!

My Work Space.

2009-04-26T17:53:00.006-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone know today is the last day for my BUY 1 GET 1 50% OFF SALE!! Check my shop out http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

So I've never shown or blogged about my work space and decided that I would today. It's nothing exciting, just a card table with 'stuff' on it. But I've made it my own. I'd like to get more organized, so that I don't have to search through bins but for now I can only do so much.

Here's something I'm currently working on...

I think I'm going to try and do more work in progress pictures...why not!?

I've also just posted these in my shop...

They are called Tulipes, and are perfect for this Spring weather! It's gorgeous here in Buffalo and I decided to go to Home Depot to get some gardening supplies, and that inspired me to make those.

Okay, that is it from me!!! Have a great day everyone!

Good Morning!!

2009-04-21T06:09:00.008-04:00

I have a little extra time so I thought I'd do a little blogging!

Did you all see the post I made from my BlackBerry yesterday? I've had it for awhile, (since November) but I definitely haven't used it to its full capacity. It's like a tiny little laptop, there are some restrictions because you need 'java' for certain things but I can get to the important pages...like Etsy, and Blogger. :) So I think I might start doing that, if I know I'm not going to have the time to blog that evening because of prior obligations or a bout of extreme creativity I think I'll start doing short little blogs during my lunch or something. What'dayah think? :)

Remember that bout of extreme creativity I mentioned a moment ago, well I was definitely hit with it this weekend and now even into this week...and I'm loving it. I love when I sit down at my 'work' table and ideas come soaring into my head! Here are a couple of items I've recently added in my shop.

This necklace, in my opinion, is stunning! It is simple and basic and would match anything but also so very beautiful...It's called 'Irise'. Check it out in my shop!

And these are very fun...they're called 'Corail' which in French means Coral, and I'm sure you can see why I named them that.

Okay, well time to leave for work...BYE!!

PS: Don't forget about my BUY 1 GET 1 50% OFF SALE, it's still going on!!! http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

SALE!

2009-04-20T07:12:00.000-04:00

I'm adding this from my blackberry!

I just wanted to let you all know I added a bunch of new items this weekend! Check them out... http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

Oh and my BUY 1 GET 1 50% OFF sale is still going on.

As always I'm willing to work with you to design anything you might be interested in.

Thanks everyone!

SALE SALE SALE

2009-04-18T10:16:00.007-04:00

Happy Saturday morning to you all!!

I wanted to let everyone know that my sale is still going on! BUY 1 ITEM GET 1 ITEM 50% OFF! I've added some new items in my shop.

That one is called 'Sabine'. They are Swarovski crystal rhinestones set in silver oval settings....check out my other pictures on my Etsy site they are sooo stunning!

Those are a really unique color, they an orange or tangerine type color, they have an AB coating so they sparkle everywhere! They're called 'Hyacinthe', check out the other pictures in my shop.

I have several more pairs to add over the weekend, so keep checking back!! And remember my BOGO sale!!

Thanks!!

2009-04-17T11:18:00.001-04:00

I want to thank everyone who made a purchase so far during my birthday sale!! It's still going on so feel free to head on over and check things out.

I have some new items that I'm going to be listing a little later today or tomorrow, so if you don't see anything you like now be sure to come back there might be something later.

Thanks again!!! :)

SALE SALE SALE!!!

2009-04-10T21:19:00.005-04:00

The big announcement is here!

Beginning April 13th I will be having a BUY ONE ITEM GET ONE ITEM 50% OFF birthday sale. This sale will include all of my items! To take advantage of the sale you can buy any two of my items, and the 50% will be taken off the 2nd item of equal or lesser value. The refund will be provided to you through PayPal.

This sale is in honor of my birthday next Thursday, April 16th. I will be 28 years old!! So, c'mon and help me celebrate!! Here's the link to my site, be sure to check it out and tell your friends all about it.

I will be trying to add more earrings throughout the week, so keep on checking back.

I also have very low shipping costs!! It is $1.50 to anywhere in the US with no extra charge for additional items. $2.00 to Canada with each additional item .25 cents and $3.50 to everywhere else and .50 cents for each additional item.

I look forward to seeing you all there!

Loving it!

2009-04-07T20:35:00.003-04:00

I've made a decent amount of sales in the past week, which means I have more money to spend on supplies. Right now every extra penny I have is going into my craft. So when I make a sale it is going right back to the wonderful sales people of Etsy. It feels REALLY good to make sales and it feels good to buy from the other shops.

I've located a few new shops I hadn't found before...and I'm excited to search through them. Here's one of the new sellers I found... santabarbaradesigns, I am really loving all of her vintage charms. I think these might be my favorite! They are Sterling silver over brass filigrees Moroccan drops
I'm REALLY loving this shop! Head on over and check it out if you love vintage jewelry supplies.

Be sure to check in on Friday when I will be making my big announcement....
*wink wink*

A productive weekend!!

2009-04-05T18:09:00.006-04:00

I had quite the productive weekend! I made a necklace and seven pairs of earrings...I took pictures of them all and got them ALL posted. I am very pleased with myself.

I will show off some of my new items...

That's three of the seven pairs I made... There are more pictures and more earrings on my Etsy page.

New items!

2009-04-03T21:21:00.008-04:00

First let me apologize for not posting in awhile. Life gets busy sometimes and unfortunately I haven't been able to blog OR sadly make jewelry. However, I took Thursday and Friday off of work and was able to get in a bunch of jewelry making. I was seriously on a roll yesterday morning...one after another, just pumping them out.

So why have I been so busy??? Well to be honest with you, I don't know. It simply has been one of those weeks where you just have a million things to get done. This was also a very good week for sales. I sold 3 pairs of earrings this week, I was sooo happy and very grateful to my buyers!

I posted some new items in my shop today...a necklace and a pair of matching earrings. Check them out!! This is the necklace called 'Vert' which is French for the color green...

And the matching earrings called 'Eclat' which is French for bloom...I named them that because they remind me of the blooms will be seeing on the trees soon!

Like I said, I have a bunch more to get up...I have the pictures taken so hopefully I'll get a chance to work on that tomorrow.

And here's a little secret....but the it's the kind of secret you can spread to all your friends...I am planning a really great sale!! It's not for a few more weeks, it's going to be a birthday sale for me since my birthday is April 16th. There will be more details to come!!! :) So keep checking back.

Not MIA!

2009-03-26T20:52:00.003-04:00

Nope, not missing in action, just been really busy...with life. Nothing in particular, I just haven't had any time to sit down and blog or create. Both sadden me...I'm hoping to do both this weekend!

I thought since I haven't, I'd share a picture of myself with my lovely boyfriend Seamus.

This was at the Rochester Museum of Science. We had a nice time that day, we went because they have a butterfly exhibit...and I love butterflies.

I have also talked more with that friend from high school about designing her wedding jewelry and I think we have most of the logistics figured out. It's going to be a TON of fun...only thing left for me to do now is design it and figure out costs...and then get down to it!! I can't wait. I will be sure to share everything with you all.

Okay, I think I might try reading tonight. :)

Holy Cow!!

2009-03-23T18:54:00.006-04:00

I am featured in another blog!! I am super thrilled and honored!! Laurie of Elle a Belle Designs, chose to feature me. Please check out her blog as well as her Etsy shop, her jewelry is really spectacular. Thank you so much Laurie!

I also had a wonderful email through Facebook, from an old high school friend. She had noticed one of the links I had put in my status of a pair of my earrings. She commented on how pretty they were, I responded and thanked her and then received an email asking me if I'd work with her to design some bracelets for her July wedding. I'm thrilled!!!

What a good day!!!

A few of my favorites!

2009-03-21T22:21:00.011-04:00

I was thinking, this evening, that I have never done a 'favorites' blog post and decided that tonight would be my first.

I'm going to start with sweets, because I am craving some Oreo's right now...
In ellesweets shop you can find many MANY different delicious goodies! My personal favorite? Reeses Peanut Butter Crownies, don't they look delicious!?
I am obsessed with all types of jewelry supplies, I just can never seem to get my hands on enough. One of my favorite places to get ear wires is RockisSupplies! They are all handmade and an absolute delight to work with. I've made a couple of pairs of earrings so far and can't wait to make more. My favorites are her Elfin Ear Wires - Artisan Oxidized Sterling Silver.

There are MANY talented jewelry makers around Etsy, one of my favorites is elleabelle designs. Her jewelry is always absolutely stunning!! One of my favorites is her Tidal Pool. Urban Luxe Necklace. It's gorgeous, but go take a look-see yourself!!

These are just a few of my favorites....I have many more, and hopefully will be doing more 'favorites' lists in the future.

Enjoy!

A custom order...

2009-03-19T21:08:00.006-04:00

I had my injection today, which I found out is actually an epidural. It was not pleasant, quite uncomfortable. I am not feeling any differently but they told me it could take 3 - 5 days to feel a difference...here's hoping. I suppose if my back, leg and foot go back to normal I can handle the pain I felt during the procedure and the pain I am feeling now.

But on to more exciting news...last week Seamus handed out some of my business cards to the women he works with. One of the them jumped right online and found a pair of earrings she liked and wanted a necklace to match. I was thrilled, it was my FIRST custom order!! So her and I worked out the details. My mind has been stewing on what to create for the last week, I finally decided on a design and made it for her this afternoon. I was very happy with my creation...now I'm keeping my fingers crossed that she will be too. Below are the earrings and a picture of the necklace...I enjoyed making it sooo much that I might make another and put it in my Etsy shop. Here are some pictures...

I also worked on another new pair of earrings, but didn't finish with them until it was dark so I'll need to work on pictures tomorrow.

I also wanted to quickly mention that Mia of Miabeads and BeadsAnonymous is holding a giveaway on her blog, check it out!!!

MRI

2009-03-17T21:18:00.003-04:00

For those of you who don't know, I've been having back and leg problems since a few days after Christmas. It got pretty severe in early January and I went to my family doctor and they did the usual things testing whether this and that hurt and then prescribed me Ibuprofen 3x's a day...and nothing got better. I went back for another visit and they sent me for an X-ray of my lower back. That was done and my doctor told me that I had a narrowing of my lower spine which usually indicates a herniated or bulging disc. Unfortunately due to it being just a regular X-ray it was not a definite yes or no. Now with my insurance, I am required to go through some PT before they'll approve an MRI which is just fine with me, I am horribly claustrophobic. I went through some PT, things were more manageable. I was able to sit at work and do my job without being completely preoccupied with the pain in my leg.

I went back to my family doctor, and since things were not yet 100%, and I still had numbness in my left calf and foot she sent me to a back specialist. He performed a few physical tests on me, checked if I had reflexes in both feet and I didn't. My right was fine, the left was not! I was unable to stand on my tip toes with only my left foot, a task that was simple with my right. He said that he could with almost definite certainty determine that my L5 lumbar disc was herniated, but I'd need an MRI to determine this.

...soooo today, I went to Buffalo MRI and had one done. It was a VERY unpleasant experience, not due to the staff there...they were amazing. I had to have a washcloth over my eyes so that I didn't open them while in the machine. I actually had an open MRI too! But it is open in the on the sides, but it is still right there in your face. It took 30 min to do the scan, but I survived. But I can not explain to you how fast my heart was beating because I was so nervous.

That's what it looks like...
Thank goodness it is done, and they said all my 'pictures' came out well, so I shouldn't need a repeat visit. Now I will go in for a cortisol injection in my back, in the lumbar that is herniated. This is supposed to alleviate the pressure on my nerves, which is causing me the pain and numbness down my leg. This, so I've been told, is NOT pleasant, but is usually quiet successful. I sure hope so! I've been walking with a limp for 3 months because I can not bend my toes without forcing them, it feels like they are constantly sleeping. I will have to reteach myself how to walk once things are fixed.

Anyways, sorry for the woah is me story...I just thought I'd share with you, what I've been going through. Thanks for reading!!

New Blogs!!

2009-03-16T21:09:00.004-04:00

Well I happily just spent the last hour going through a ton of different blogs and following them. Here's the link to the Etsy forum where you can find plenty to follow... There were sooo many, I haven't had a chance to read them all yet, but that's the beauty of blogger is that you can follow them and catch up when you have time. It really is so fun!!

Added another new pair of earrings...what do you think? Check out my Etsy store to see more!
http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

So check those blogs out and follow!! I love getting to know all sorts of people from around the world that I would have no chance of getting to know otherwise, it's wonderful.

Jillian :)

Featured!!

2009-03-14T22:32:00.005-04:00

I'd like to send a BIG thank you out to PamperingBeki for featuring me in her blog! I am so excited to have been chosen. She did a 'love list' so be sure to stop on over and check out what else she has featured.

I also posted 2 new pairs of earrings. These 2 are my new favorites...I love the oxidized silver with the dark beads.

If you want to check out these two, and everything else I have listed stop on over to http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

I few more pairs that I need to get up and I'll hopefully get to that tomorrow.

I have a pretty decent week. I picked up my new car Thursday and have driven it around everywhere. I really love it and I'm very happy with the choice I made.

Alrighty, I believe that is it for me for tonight!

Sick...

2009-03-13T23:27:00.002-04:00

I haven't been feeling really great the last few days...stomach problems! It could have been a virus or a new medicine I started taking this week...either way I am feeling better and will be hopefully doing some blogging this weekend. I have a bunch of things to share, for now I am going to head to bed and get a good night's rest.

Be sure to check out my Etsy page!

Jillian :)

A title?

2009-03-10T20:29:00.004-04:00

I have no idea what to call this blog so I gave it the best I could come up with. lol Not to bad, right...hehe

Anywho--I got a bunch of new goodies from Etsy yesterday and I got a chance last night to work with them, man was I in the zone! Seriously I was pumping pairs of earrings out right and left...I created 5 new pairs. I have yet to take photos yet, it was too cloudy here today...but definitely within the next few I'll get some taken.

I am absolutely 100% addicted to Etsy. This includes my shop as well as shopping everyone else's sites, especially the jewelry suppliers. I can find a million things that I'd like...the problem is that I keep putting money into my business but I'm not getting that much out. I don't mind, because I really do love making jewelry but my bank acct is hurting. :( Oh well, I will keep on creating and spending my time doing what I really enjoy.

Those are a pair from my last uploaded batch...I promise, some really great ones to come!!

Okay, now I am off to visit everyone else's blogger-rooney! :)

Super Sunday!!

2009-03-08T12:48:00.005-04:00

No idea why I named today's blog that, other than simply it popped in my head and I went with it. haha

So... I got my new car yesterday! Well technically I didn't get it, but I chose it and filled out the preliminary papers now it is just a matter of time. I need to get the loan from my mom's credit union and then bring it on in, and the car is mine!! I was thinking of getting a brand new Chevy Cobalt because there were good deals but previously I had test drove a Dodge Caliber and really loved it. The dealership we were at had a 2008, with low mileage and the right price and a clean carfax so I took it. I will probably pick it up late this week!! The picture isn't of mine, it's a stock photo...and mine is Silver, but it gives you an idea of what it looks like.

This morning, I got up early because of the clock change and I went and cleaned out my current car. So that's all done and ready to be traded in.

I also posted 3 more pairs of earrings....I'll share one of the pictures with you.

Okay, my parents should be calling me soon! We're meeting them for lunch today.

Yummy dinner!!

2009-03-06T22:32:00.004-05:00

Seamus and I went for a delicious dinner tonight!! We went to this place called The Irishman.
It's in Williamsville, NY, and if you're from around this area I HIGHLY recommend it. I go there pretty frequently for lunch and such and I always enjoy it sooo much. The food is always delicious and they hand-cut their fries and they are sooo yummy. I tend to always get the Reuben, and the best part is that they do not use seeded rye...I hate fennel seed. BLAH! So yup, it was yummy!

Tomorrow is car shopping, I'm really hoping for some good deals!! Keep your fingers crossed for me.

Okay, I think it is bedtime for this lady!!

MORE earrings!! :)

2009-03-05T21:20:00.003-05:00

Ahhhh...nothing feels better then getting a batch of earrings up and posted! I just finished with that...it was a batch of four, but I always feel so successful after I finish. I also always hope that when I post them they make it to the newly listed scroll and they get some views! :) I included a picture of a pair. They are called Marguerite. Check them out if you want to see more pictures and different angles.

I also made it to a treasury this week, I was very thrilled and honored to be a part of that!

Those are my earrings in the third column second item down!! Unfortunately it expired already, but I always feel so special when someone chooses to include me and thinks my item is special enough.

I've had a pretty busy week so far, Monday is my physical therapy for my back which doesn't take all night but is just one more thing that keeps me from creating and/or blogging, Tuesday is laundry night because unfortunately I do not have a washer or dryer. :( Wednesday I had a bunch of errands to run and didn't end up getting a chance to relax until about 8:30 or 9. PHEW! Finally today I had a chance to sit down and spend time with my jewelry. :) Oh well, tomorrow is Friday and I have to say TGIF. This weekend I need to go car shopping, because my current car was totaled by a plow earlier in the winter, it's still drivable but won't pass inspection. It's almost 10 yrs old anyways, time for a new one. I'm hoping with the economy so bad that it'll be a buyers market out there. Wish me luck!! :) Sunday, I hope to do nothing but grocery shop and make jewelry.

Alright that is all for me for tonight, I'm going to go peruse the internet now.

.....Oh yah, visit my Etsy shop...http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

Okay, now time for night night! :D

One pooped lady!!

2009-03-03T21:58:00.002-05:00

So I've spent the last two hours working on jewelry...the two hours prior to that at the laundramat, and then the 8 hours prior to that at work. Needless to say I am pooped!

I am happy though, I sold another piece of jewelry yesterday. I was at work when I got the email from Etsy on my BlackBerry and man O man was I excited. I shipped it out today so hopefully the buyer will have it by the weekend. It was actually the earrings pictures in my previous blog. I also quickly made another pair and got them right on up. They're one of my favorites that I've ever made! Check out my site if you want to see additional pictures of them, http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

Okay, so I'm super pooped and now off to bed!

:)

New earrings!!

2009-03-01T20:29:00.004-05:00

I just got finished adding three new pairs of earrings to my website on etsy. Check them out, http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

So my weekend was kind of a bust, yesterday I was supposed to go to a Buffalo Bandits game which is indoor lacrosse. We did go, but it stunk! The people that we were sitting by were obnoxious and completely ruined it for Seamus and I. Oh well! Today I worked on my Etsy shop and grocery shopped and that's about it. Nothing too exciting, I just wish there would have been more relaxing because I don't wanna go to work tomorrow!! :(

I just got an email from my sister who lives in Atlanta...they had snow today and quite a bit of it. She said her and her boyfriend went out and played in it. For her, it isn't an exciting thing (since she's a native of WNY), but her boyfriend is from Atlanta and rarely sees much snow. Luckily for us in Buffalo we had a beautiful sunny day with no snow...I'm hoping for more of the same in this coming week!

Okey dokey, that's about all for me for tonight. See yah all soon!!

TGIF!!

2009-02-27T22:30:00.003-05:00

Thank God it's Friday!!

I'm pooped and need a nice break from work. Well my day job, not the jewelry making, I'm sure I'll be working on that all weekend...but I enjoy that, it brings a smile to my face.

I think that's about it for me today, I'm tired and definitely want to just hit the hay. I still need to work on those pictures of my new earrings. LOL Soon...I promise!!

Night!

Spring!?

2009-02-26T20:35:00.004-05:00

I think Spring may have sprung in Buffalo...maybe. I don't want to say that and have it snow tomorrow, but being that this IS WNY that is exactly what will probably happen. Oh well, I'm kinda used to it after 27 yrs (almost 28)!

I worked on a new pair of earrings tonight, I couldn't do more even though my brain is overflowing with ideas, because of my leg. It's been awful for 2 months and even with physical therapy it isn't completely better yet. Anywho -- I made this gorgeous pair of filigree bronze butterfly earrings. I haven't gotten any pictures yet because it was dark when I finished, but I promise I will get some this weekend and get them posted. I also made a couple pairs yesterday, which I will also get pictures of and get up online.

I was telling Seamus the other day how my brain is CONSTANTLY thinking of jewelry. Predominately earrings, but I do have some ideas for bracelets and necklaces, I've just been having a lot of fun with earrings. But I go to bed and I'm thinking about it, I dream about, I wake up and as I'm showering and getting dressed for work...I'm thinking about it, I sit at work and I think about it. No joke, jewelry is on my mind nearly 24/7 lately. I don't mind, I just wish I had more time to create and a leg that did not hurt!

Okay, I think that's it for me...I'll try and get some pictures of my new items up very soon!

http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

Take care all!

Spring!?

2009-02-26T20:35:00.001-05:00

My first sale!!

2009-02-24T21:31:00.004-05:00

I'm so happy to say I had my first sale!!! I had some time in the evening yesterday and decided to go into one of Etsy's chat rooms. I found a featured seller room, and ended up making my first sale. I was thrilled. I got it packaged up and made it all pretty and got it in the mail this afternoon. I hope it gets there safely...I'm overprotective of them (it was a pair of earrings), like they were my child. HAHA I just hope I continue to make sales or that people continue to find my site. I'll include a picture of the pair that sold...

If you're interested you can check out the rest of my items at http://jillianmackowiak.etsy.com/

Okay, I'm off to read for a bit and then off to bed...have a good night all!!

A nomination!!

2009-02-24T20:03:00.004-05:00

I've been nominated for a lemonade award!! I want to thank Andrea Creates for nominating me!! I feel very honored.

The rules are as follows:
1)Put the lemonade award logo on your blog or post.
2)Nominate 5-10 blogs that show great attitude and or gratitude.
3)List and link your nominees within your post.
4)Let them know they have received the award by leaving a comment on their blog.
5)Nominate your favorites and link to their post.
I decided I would nominate the following individuals:
http://artsytartsyjewels.blogspot.com/
http://mindygjewelry.blogspot.com/
http://bijouxdesignsforyou.blogspot.com/
http://bjohnsonjewelry.blogspot.com/
http://workathomedesigns.blogspot.com/

Take a look at these individuals blogs and give them some love!!!

New earrings!!

2009-02-22T21:32:00.003-05:00

I added some new earrings to my Etsy page. I always have sooo much fun making them, I struggle with taking the photos though. I think I'm pretty good and getting better but it takes about 15 pictures per earring to get it right. Oh well! As long as I capture it, to show it's true beauty...here's the website. Check them out!!

I can't believe it is Sunday night already, that means I have to wake up tomorrow and go back to the real world and I certainly don't want to do that. :(

Anyways, I need to do a few more things before I head to bed so off I go to work on that!

FEATURED IN A BLOG!!

2009-02-20T20:08:00.003-05:00

I wanted to thank bijouxdesigns for featuring me in her blog!! She posted a thread in the promotion forum of Etsy and asked if any undiscovered newbies would like some free publicity. Since I have yet to make a sale (and I'm getting antsy...hehe) I jumped at the request. I was very happy that I did, I gained a couple hearts from it and a bunch of views on that pair of earrings, and I'm sure some of my others too. Check out her blog at http://bijouxdesignsforyou.blogspot.com/ and her Etsy page. Thank you sooo much for featuring me Bijoux!!!

I made about 4 pairs of earrings tonight, and will take photos of them tomorrow and hopefully get them up and in my store sometime over the weekend. Be sure to check them out here.

About me!!

2009-02-19T18:25:00.003-05:00

So I decided today that I would write a short little blog about me, tell you a little about me and my life.

Well my name is Jillian Mackowiak and I'm 27 yrs old, actually I'll be 28 in April. I'm not looking forward to that, it means 1 more year closer to 30. Not that I have a problem with 30, I am just not where I'd like to be when I hit 30. I have a wonderful boyfriend named Seamus (pronounced Shay-mus), we've been together about a year and 6 months. We have plans to be married, but money is tight and things just haven't happened yet. I am patiently (kind of) ;) waiting. I do adore him, and the wonderful things he does for me.

I work for a health insurance company in the area in their Medicare division, reconciling problems between our company and Medicare. I will have been with the company 3 yrs come March, that is a long time...but not the longest I've been with a company. I was with McDonald's for 5 yrs when I was in highschool/college. I loved working there because of my manager (he was very awesome) and the people...and I sure did learn a lot while working there. You'd be surprised what you can learn while working fast food. It's a tough job, so treat those that are the counter politely, chances are they're doing their best!!

I've been making jewelry since grade school, but stopped for awhile. When I was in college I just didn't have the time or the resources to make it...however I am back in and going strong. I enjoy it soooo much!

I am currently dealing with a slipped disc/pinched nerve in my back and leg. It is not fun, but I am attending PT and hoping things will get better.

I love reading, absolutely LOOOVE reading! Books are my friends. haha I also enjoy messing around on the computer, shopping for jewelry supplies and play a video game called World of Warcraft with Seamus.

Anyways, that is a little bit about me!

Oh and PS: WHERE IS SPRING!! :)

Followers

2009-02-17T21:24:00.001-05:00

Please remember if you read this blog and enjoy it and want to return to keep up with me and my adventures in jewelry making (while also working a full-time job). ;) Please click on the followers link in the left side bar!

Thanks!! :)

Newbie!

2009-02-17T20:42:00.000-05:00

Soooo, I am new to the jewelry making and selling world but I'm trying to make it. I'm Jillian Mackowiak and I have been in love with jewelry since I can remember. I remember when I was in grade school my grandma or my mom would take me to the craft store to buy some materials. Back then (say about 11 or so yrs ago) my style was much different and of course simpler but I still spent so much spare time doing it.

Probably sometime around October/November of 2008, I discovered the site Etsy. I'm not sure where I'd been hiding because apparently it's been around for awhile, but it reminded me of my love for making jewelry. So I decided that after the holidays (I had to save all my extra money for Christmas gifts) I'd start making it again. And I actually did! My wonderful boyfriend Seamus (pronounced Shay-mus) got me a bunch of books and a $50 GC to a local craft store so I could start my collection of jewelry making supplies. I had so much fun just looking everything over but I had a very difficult time choosing what to purchase. My supplies have probably tripled in the 2 months that I've been working on it, but it is just as exciting everyt ime I go to make a purchase on Etsy or some local craft store.

I absolutely love this craft and hope to continue for a good long time. I've created a website for myself where I have begun to sell my jewelry, I hope you'll go check it out. http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6556194 My user name is jillianmackowiak, if you happen to forget my website...or you can just type in jillianmackowiak.etsy.com . Any of the above should work for you. Check it out and let me know what you think!

....and I will keep you all posted in my experiences of jewelry making!