The journey hasn't always been metal roses and birds nests, however. Though I technically opened my shop for business on August 19, 2008, I initially only put up a measly 2 items for sale: a glasses lanyard and these green earrings, made of pearls I bought in China. And though I posted them for sale in August, it took me over 2 months to make my first sale (of said green earrings)! I was SO thrilled that the earrings finally sold that I still have the little "thank you" note the buyer sent with her payment (before the days of Paypal)! And come to think of it, my mom is the only one who has ever "bought" the glasses lanyard. Figures!
Now, 2 years and 200 sales later, I am thrilled to say that I consider my work on Etsy both fulfilling and successful, if you will. Though my sales aren't in the thousands, my ratings are a unanimous 100% satisfaction, which is one of the few things I take great pride in :) Add that to the hundreds (literally, hundreds) of sales I have made in person and off of Etsy, plus that one order of 200 custom necklaces from earlier this summer, and you have an average of about an item sold a day. I like those odds.
So with that, my faithful Bead Up readers, I can only thank you for all the support you have provided me -- whether it is through actual sales or your comments here on this blog. There are few things in life that make me feel like I am using my talents wisely, and with your help, this happens to be one of them :)
And what is a proper "thank you" without a GIVEAWAY? Bead Up is offering her most valuable - and most popular - giveaway yet: A Wire-Wrapped Birds Nest Necklace! Choose from the classic:
Or the twist:
Or the yet-to-be-released, twist on a classic!
To enter: just leave a comment on this blog post listing your favorite item in Bead Up's shop - the Fall Line is growing in numbers and I would love to hear what you do (or don't!) like!
For additional entries: "like" Bead Up on Facebook, "favorite" Bead Up on Etsy, or follow this blog (please leave an additional comment for each extra entry you make)!
Oh, and don't forget to include your e-mail address too so I can tell you when you have won! Giveaway will end on August 26th :)
Here's to another 2x200 years of Etsy-ing!
I have to be honest, your birds nest is my favorite item. Though it is tough to say since everything you make is so beautiful! I love to just look through your shop.
ReplyDeleteI really love your 'twist' version of your wire wrapped bird's nest, but after taking an etsy stroll through your shop, I also have a big smile for your Jade and Gemstone Bronze bracelet & earring set. Your creativity has been flowing and growing. Congratulations on two years and a thriving etsy shop!! :>
ReplyDeleteAnyone else having a hard time posting comments? Any advice from those who have successfully done so? :)
ReplyDeleteYay, happy 2 years! I love all versions of the birds nest necklaces...so pretty.
ReplyDeletehollygolightly0831 (at) gmail (dot) com
I like Bead Up on facebook!
ReplyDeletehollygolightly0831 (at) gmail (dot) com
I (of course) already follow your blog!
ReplyDeletehollygolightly0831 (at) gmail (dot) com
Bead Up is one of my favorites on Etsy.
ReplyDeletehollygolightly0831 (at) gmail (dot) com
I adore the brass birdy. I've been eying that one since the first time I saw the shop. I actually put it on my birthday wish list (coincidentally, the 26th!)
ReplyDeleteI like Purple, Gold, Brown, Black, and Wood Ribbon Necklace.
ReplyDeletejanetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
I like Bead Up on Facebook - Janet Fri
ReplyDeletejanetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
I faved Bead Up on Etsy - janetfaye
ReplyDeletejanetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
I follow on GFC - janetfaye
ReplyDeletejanetfaye (at) gmail (dot) com
I really love the all of the Birds Nest wire wrapped. The wire and beads look great together, more of that kind of jewelry would be stunning!
ReplyDeleteFollowing your blog!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the success! I love the Cerulean Blue Crystal and Gold Loop Wire Wrapped Earrings. Jewelry that showcases both beads and cool metal finishes really catches my eye :)
ReplyDeleteI love goldleaf and gemstone earrings.
ReplyDeletee.estt[at]yahoo[dot]com
what an awesome shop. i love the mix of bold jewelry with simpler jewelry. my favorite is the bird's nest necklace - so fun and sweet at the same time. :)
ReplyDeletejill.m.roberts{at}gmail{dot}com
beadup is an etsy favorite.
ReplyDeleteetsy name: jillojillo
i follow with gfc.
ReplyDeletejill.m.roberts{at}gmail{dot}com
I like this camera necklace:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/50856416/click-and-shoot-necklace
I also love the last necklace on this page.
crazystargrl@yahoo.com
I liked you on Etsy! (I'm selfogrpahy)
ReplyDeleteAlso - favorite item is EASILY that necklace - that's the neatest thing I've EVER seen :)
ReplyDeleteI love the "Reach for the Stars" necklace!!
ReplyDeleteI like you on Facebook.
ReplyDeleteYou're a favorite on Etsy.
ReplyDeleteI follow your blog.
ReplyDeletemy fave item in your shop is the Chinese Coin and Gemstone Charm Bracelet! email in profile.
ReplyDeletei follow your blog! email in profile.
ReplyDeletei hearted you on etsy! email in profile.
ReplyDeletei like you on fb! (katie hanson) email in profile.
ReplyDeleteI love the "abstract in the O" necklace! and also the bird's nest - the classic one is my favorite. :)
ReplyDeleteI adore the Brass Birdie Goes to Its Nest Necklace, and cant wait until the silver version is released!! :)
ReplyDeleteerin.elyse (at) gmail (dot) com
I love the kindness freshwater pearl necklace!
ReplyDeletehrfarley at gmail dot com
I really love the Purple, Gold, Brown, Black, and Wood Ribbon Necklace! It is so gorgeous! jinglesells at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteI like this listing:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/51462011/gold-leaf-and-gemstone-earrings
You are a favourite on Etsy
ReplyDeletepjhyoung
I love the FAITH ring silver necklace!
ReplyDeletekimhigueria at gmail dot com
I like Bead up on FB
ReplyDeletekimhigueria at gmail dot com
I heart Bead Up on Etsy
ReplyDeleteellaboutique
kimhigueria at gmail dot com
Congrats, friend! What a great accomplishment. I'm glad to have been a part of your journey these past couple of years!
ReplyDeleteMy favorites in your shop right now are any of those freshwater pearl bracelets ... Simplicity, Kindness and Serenity are all beautiful!
Congrats on two years!! That's an incredible accomplishment. My favorite item is the Chinese Coin and Gemstone Charm Bracelet!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
I like Bead Up on Facebook - my FB name is Amanda Moore
ReplyDeleteThank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
I added Bead Up to my Etsy favorite sellers - my Etsy username is Hurdler4eva
ReplyDeleteThank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
I follow your blog with google friend connect
ReplyDeleteThank you for the giveaway :)
hurdler4eva(at)gmail(dot)com
Congrats -
ReplyDeleteLove the White crystal and blue ribbon with silver broach necklace. Very pretty and unique!!
Stephanie
stephcrs339 at gmail dot com
I follow via GFC
ReplyDeletestephcrs339 at gmail dot com
Congrats on 2 yrs and 200 sales!! I love how bright and colourful alot of your jewelry is! I think the Simplicity Freshwater Pearl Pink and Purple Bracelet is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteunforgetable_dreamer_always(at)hotmail.com
I love Click and Shoot necklace
ReplyDeleteegle dot mane at gmail dot com
I love the Chinese Collage Bracelet!
ReplyDeletekarenDOTerkertATgmailDOTcom
I adore the click and shoot necklace with that tiny camera — so beautiful! I love the bird's nest necklaces also!
ReplyDeletetessa[dot]muggeridge[at]gmail[dot]com
I love the wine charms and the bird's necklace best! Congrats on two years and over 200 sales! Cheers to you!!
ReplyDeletechayna@armcandyconfessions.com
I became a fan on FB.
ReplyDeleteCongrats on 2 years! I adore the Bird's Nest Wire Necklace, beautiful!
ReplyDeleteksween77@hotmail.com
I looked through all your items and I have to say the birds nest necklaces are my favorites; all the choices are great, I'd love the new twist on the classic. Congrats on 2 years.
ReplyDeletejhbalvin@gmail.com
I like the White crystal and blue ribbon with silver broach necklace
ReplyDeletekristin.brown106 at gmail dot com
perhaps it's because I am of asian descent...but I LOVE Brass Chinese Coin Pendant necklace!!!!! It is stylish and has that antique but alluring look and is just the right length! congrats on so many sales! and thanks for this giveaway!
ReplyDeletei am following this blog!
ReplyDeletesumshi.is.yummy@gmail.com
Looking through your store I like the Serenity Freshwater Pearl Aqua and Green Bracelet and the bird nest necklaces.
ReplyDeletesonflower277(at)gmail(dot)com
I love the bird's nest necklaces...especially the "yet to be released twist on a classic" :)
ReplyDeletegc762(at)yahoo(dot)com
Click and Shoot necklace
ReplyDeleteNice items
(:
belgd at live dot com
Favorited on etsy!
ReplyDeletelike bead up on facebook
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on everything! Keep it up :)
ReplyDeleteMy absolute fave of your items would definitely be your Gold and Salmon Pearl Cluster Necklace. So BEAUTIFUL!
And very close second are your Birds Nest Necklace (I can't decide between the twist or the twist on a classic! haha)
kissthesky@london.com
Followed your blog ;D again, either of the twists haha.
ReplyDeletekissthesky@london.com
I like the "Amy Butler Fabric and Wooden Bead Necklace with Pink Ribbon"
ReplyDeletegetoverit2090 at hotmail dot com
following your blog :)
ReplyDeletegetoverit2090 at hotmail dot com
Faved your etsy! (:
ReplyDeletekissthesky@london.com
Liked Bead Up on facebook ;D
ReplyDeletekissthesky@london.com
i love Amethyst and Agate Gemstones with Pearl Coin Earrings!
ReplyDeletei favorited your shop on etsy!!
ReplyDeleteCongrats on 2 years! You have lovely things in your shop. I love the Silver Black Bird Tag Gemstone Necklace and all of the nests!
ReplyDeleteI favorited your shop on etsy!
ReplyDeleteteresacline2001(at)yahoo(dot)com
I love the Jade and Gemstone Bronze Bracelet.
ReplyDeletesugareaterATgmailDOTcom
Happy 2 years!!
ReplyDeleteAll of your pieces are beautiful,but I have to say that my very favorite is the yet-to-be-released, twist on a classic!
KimSecrets(at)gmail(dot)com
I like your page on facebook. My FB name is Kimberly Pate-Lewis.
ReplyDeleteKimSecrets(at)gmail(dot)com
Added your etsy to my favs! My etsy name is KimSecrets.
ReplyDeleteKimSecrets(at)gmail(dot)com
I follow your blog! :)
ReplyDeleteKimSecrets(at)gmail(dot)com
Hello! My favorite from the shop is the Gold-Bohemian Wooden Necklace. To me it represents our reality: diverse culture, one world.
ReplyDeletePlease enter me, thanks!
khrisocubillo at yahoo dot com
Following the blog via GFC.
ReplyDeletekhrisocubillo at yahoo dot com
I love the warmth of your 'Gold Bohemian Wooden Necklace'. I love anything made of wood - it's so tactile :)
ReplyDeletekazzab222(at)hotmail(dot)com
I'm fanning you on Facebook :)
ReplyDeletekazzab222(at)hotmail(dot)com
I'm loving you on Etsy :)
ReplyDeletekazzab222(at)hotmail(dot)com
I'm now following your blog (and an ace blog it is!) :)
ReplyDeleteMy favorite item is Click and Shoot necklace. Enter me please! ^^
ReplyDeleteAna Belén R.M
fisiwoman(at)hotmail(dot)com
Spain
I "like" Bead Up on Facebook (Ana Belén R M)
ReplyDeleteAna Belén R.M
fisiwoman(at)hotmail(dot)com
Spain
I'm a new follower via GFC! I'm fisiwoman!
ReplyDeleteAna Belén R.M
fisiwoman(at)hotmail(dot)com
Spain
I like the reach for stars necklace
ReplyDeletesherrygo at hotmail dot com
blogged http://iluvcontest.blogspot.com/2010/08/win-bird-nest-necklace.html
ReplyDeletesherrygo at hotmail dot com
I have two favs in the shop: Serenity Freshwater Pearl Aqua and Green Bracelet AND Chinesse Collage Bracelet. Thanks
ReplyDeletelubaska dot k at gmail dot com
I "like" Bead Up on Facebook
ReplyDelete(Lubka Kotmanikova
lubaska dot k at gmail dot com
I "favorited" Bead Up on Etsy (ID Lubaska)
ReplyDeletelubaska dot k at gmail dot com
I follow your blog
ReplyDeletelubaska dot k at gmail dot com
well, I love the nest necklaces... but! I also really like the bohemian long, wood necklace :)
ReplyDeleteceleste@mail4me.com
My favorite item in Bead Up's shop are White Crystal And Blue Ribbon With Silver Broach Necklace and
ReplyDeleteGold Bohemian Wooden Necklace.
monikalintang@hotmail.com
"like" Bead Up on Facebook as Monika Lintang Retnani.
ReplyDeletemonikalintang@hotmail.com
Follow this blog via GFC as Monik.
ReplyDeletemonikalintang@hotmail.com
I love the Purple Amethyst and Burnished Silver earrings.
ReplyDeletemframe00@gmail.com
Oh wow, I love everything in your shop! there isn't anything that I don't love there, really! One of my favorite items is the Green Gemstone, Wooden Beads, and Purple Ribbon Necklace, it is absolutely gorgeous! I could keep going on and on about all the items that I love from your shop!
ReplyDeleteNury77 at live dot ca
I like Bead up on fb :)
ReplyDeleteNury77 at live dot ca
I added your shop to my faves on Etsy!
ReplyDeleteNury77 at live dot ca
Congratulations on 200 sales! What a wonderful giveaway you are offering. Besides the lovely birds nest necklace, here is my fave:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/51591781/white-crystal-and-blue-ribbon-with
Theresa
(theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com
I "hearted" your shop - secret admirer
ReplyDeleteTheresa
(theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com
I am "liking" you on FB!]
ReplyDeleteTheresa
(theresamacnaughton(at)gmail(dot)com
I really love your Jade and Gemstone Bronze Bracelet and Earring Set. SO pretty!
ReplyDeleteI like you on FaceBook as JanineNenemanMoore.
ReplyDelete:) Grats on 2 years!!! :)
I heart you on Etsy. :)
ReplyDeleteusername:
janinemoore
I like the medium gold Bohemian wooden necklace
ReplyDeletelkish77123 at gmail dot com
i like the Purple, Gold, Brown, Black, and Wood Ribbon Necklace, it looks so fresh and yet old fashioned at the same time=)
ReplyDeleterebirth_C@hotmail.com
following your blog via gfc!
ReplyDeleterebirth_C@hotmail.com
My fav item in Bead Up's shop is the Ichthus Necklace in Antique Silver, really like it :)
ReplyDeletesswpss at yahoo dot com
I "like" Bead Up on FB
ReplyDeletemy FB name is Vicki Sh
sswpss at yahoo dot com
I "favorite" Bead Up on Etsy
ReplyDeletemy Etsy username is Vianna
sswpss at yahoo dot com
Became GFC follower my name sswpss
ReplyDeletesswpss at yahoo dot com
Great giveaway! I'd love to be entered.
ReplyDeleteI like the Purple Amethyst and Burnished Silver earrings.
Please count me in. Thanks.
avalonne83 [at] yahoo [dot] it
My favourite piece is the 'Antiqued Brass and Gemstone Flower Necklace and Earring Set'
ReplyDeleteKate1485 at hotmail.com
I hearted the store on Etsy (Jasmine1485)
ReplyDeleteKate1485 at hotmail.com
I'm a fan on Facebook (Kate Ryan)
ReplyDeleteKate1485 at hotmail.com
I actually love this necklace for the givaway,
ReplyDeleteit is gorgeous!!!!
LOVELOVELOVE it
heatherkphoto@gmail.com
I liked you on facebook
ReplyDeleteheatherkphoto@gmail.com
thanks :-)
I favorited you on etsy
ReplyDelete:-)
heatherkphoto@gmail.com
I love the White crystal and blue ribbon with silver broach necklace! I love the color of the ribbon, the beautiful broach, and the overall balance of the necklace. It's perfect!!
ReplyDeleteruricloth[at]yahoo[dot]com
I added your shop to my etsy favorites!
ReplyDeleteruricloth[at]yahoo[dot]com
I love the the bird nest classic ( :
ReplyDeleteA_C_E_ at hotmail dot com
I love the brass birdie goes to its nest!
ReplyDeletesnaugle81@gmail.com
I hearted you on Etsy (KayleeToo)
ReplyDeleteI like you on facebook
ReplyDeletesnaugle81@gmail.com
I love the Thrive brass necklace.
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Deirdre
dbyrne1[at]gmail[dot]com
I like the Gold and Green Swarovski Crystal Necklace.
ReplyDeleteannabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com
Favorite Bead Up on Etsy. username: SweepstakeLover
ReplyDeleteannabell_lee_dk (at) yahoo.com
I love your BUZZ BEE Necklace! So cute. I think my favorite nest was the yet-to-be-released one???
ReplyDeleteThanks
Angie
rennieangie at gmail dot com
Cannot stop drooling over the Cerulean Blue Crystal and Gold Loop earrings, myself. Congrats on your anniversary!
ReplyDeletei LOVE the coin bracelet!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/51577361/silver-elizabeth-coin-bracelet
i like the silver black bird tag gemstone necklace
ReplyDeletenannypanpan at sbcglobal.net
Gold leaf and gemstone earrings are so pretty!
ReplyDeletetwigerina[at]hotmail[dot]com
I love the Heart Charm Silver Necklace
ReplyDeletefsarah09 at gmail dot com
FB fan
ReplyDeletefsarah09 at gmail dot com
hearted the shop - etsy name fsarah
ReplyDeletefsarah09 at gmail dot com
i follow you
ReplyDeletefsarah09 at gmail dot com
lov the birds nest nclaces!
ReplyDeletesoooo cute!
julieb82@gmail.com
I know you listed it, but I LOVE the Brass Birdy goes to his nest.
ReplyDeletenordstromemily at hotmail dot com
I added beadup as a favorite. (Penelopeplum).
ReplyDeletenordstromemily at hotmail dot com
My favorite is the Birds Nest wire wrapped pearl necklace.
ReplyDeletesmrtmouse at yahoo dot com
I hearted your shop.
ReplyDeletesmrtmouse at yahoo dot com
My favorite is the classic birds nest necklace....I adore it, I have to say!
ReplyDeleteDevin
dbwais[at]gmail[dot]com
i love this necklace :http://www.etsy.com/listing/51587680/gold-bohemian-wooden-necklace-long
ReplyDeleteengh.katie at gmail dot com
I like bead up on fb, and follow this blog! P.S. I love reading :o)
ReplyDeletei love hearing about your adventures, both with bead up and in general! the rose necklace that says "bloom" is my favorite, and i wear it even more often than i expected to! beautiful, understated and inspirational all at once. stay tuned for a new order soon!
ReplyDeletemalissia.milburn@gmail.com
Didn't see the extra entries part! :> (of course) I like Bead Up on Facebook!
ReplyDeleteI've been following your blog since near the beginning! :>:>
ReplyDeleteAnd I {heart} Bead Up on etsy!! :>
ReplyDeleteI love the bird nest necklace! I have the "classic" version and get complimented everytime I wear it. I have a pearl for each of my 3 children and it always makes me feel close to them when I wear it.
ReplyDeleteWoah, Christyn, look at all these response!!! You're hotttt! I'm so happy for you:) You can go ahead and select me now:)
ReplyDeleteAwesome shop!
ReplyDeleteI love this:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/52942584/amy-butler-love-polka-dot-print-fabric
hrtzl{at}verizon{dot}net
"favorited" you shop!
ReplyDeletehrtzl at verizon dot net
I love this necklace! It is so cool!!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/51598474/purple-gold-brown-black-and-wood-ribbon
jenny.maurer84 at gmail dot com
I hearted beadup as JennyBolech
ReplyDeletejenny.maurer84 at gmail dot com
love the Click and Shoot necklace
ReplyDeleteduhnellecarter [at] yahoo . com
Hearted! tagsandbuttons
ReplyDeleteduhnellecarter [at] yahoo . com
My favorite items are the Brass bird nest necklace and the Serenity Freshwater Pearl Aqua and Green Bracelet. Beautiful jewelry!
ReplyDeletejmuher2 at gmail.com
congrats christyn! i love it all! it looks great :) hope you all are doing good!!
ReplyDeleteIt's hard to choose a fave, but the "Thrive" necklace really speaks to me!
ReplyDeletejesslyne@gmail.com
I really like this necklace.. simple but pretty:
ReplyDeletehttp://www.etsy.com/listing/51587680/gold-bohemian-wooden-necklace-long
Oops forgot my email! It's hilary.l.adams@gmail.com
ReplyDelete