The EtsyKids Treasury Team is thrilled to honor one of EtsyKids Co-Leaders, Jocelyn of The Little LOVE Bug on Etsy, as our June Featured Member. Jocelyn has been a champion for the EKTT since we began in September 2010. I have come to rely on Jocelyn's level-headed judgment and positive energy, qualities essential to any good leader. Without the guidance, assistance, and support of our Co-Leaders, The Little LOVE Bug and Lilikins Baby Blankets and Quilts (see her interview May 2011 Featured EKTT Member), the EtsyKids Treasury Team would not be the thriving, enthusiastic band of curators we are today. EtsyKids Team is very fortunate to have two such capable, devoted and hard-working leaders. We appreciate all you do for EtsyKids Team and the EKTT, Jocelyn, and now it is our great privilege to celebrate The Little LOVE Bug on Etsy in treasuries throughout the month of June!
The Little LOVE Bug on Etsy is filled with the most delicious and eco-friendly hand sewn felt food, games, and hair accessories for your children. Jocelyn, a felt guru, feeds hungry imaginations with whimsical and safe felt play food! The Little LOVE Bug's charming creations were inspired by her own two daughters, and have been a hit with kids and moms alike since 2008. As a special treat for you dear readers of the EtsyKids Treasury Team Blog, The Little LOVE Bug is having a SALE through the month of June! Please use coupon code "LOVE15BUG" for 15% off all June orders, and at The Little LOVE Bug on Etsy you always enjoy free shipping!
EKTT: What is your favorite part of the creative process? Least favorite?
The Little LOVE Bug: I love the making of a new item. My daughters tell me what they would like in their kitchens, and I draw and draw until I get what we like. Yes, it is a family that makes it all work. Then I draw my own pattern, cut the felt and sew away. It usually takes at least 2 to 3 finished tries to get the pattern and finished item before I list it on Etsy. So one new item could take a few weeks to make perfect.
My least favorite part is the packaging and mailing, but I have a system for that now. I even get my husband to help package in my busy seasons. But I would much rather be sewing.
EKTT: What was the journey that brought you to opening The Little LOVE Bug on Etsy?
The Little LOVE Bug: Well, when my oldest was two there were a lot of toy recalls. It seemed like every time I turned around another recalled toy was in my daughter's mouth. So I decided to make play food for her, which as we know ends up in all kid's mouths. After my friends saw her new felt play food they asked for some for their children. I was making them for birthday and Christmas gifts. Then one day someone suggested I should sell them on Ebay. After a little while of selling on Ebay I really wanted to find a place with less fees. I stumbled upon Etsy and have never left.
EKTT: Congratulations on your new role as Co-Leader of the EtsyKids Team! Please tell us about your volunteer work for the EtsyKids Team.
The Little LOVE Bug: I have been a member of EtsyKids since November of 2008. Shortly after, early 2009, I started to review all the applications for membership to accept and invite shops to our group and was the New England Regional Leader at the same time. I did this till March of 2010 when I became the Membership Director. In April 2011 I became Co-Leader of our group.
EKTT: Approximately how many hours per week do you devote to EtsyKids Team duties?
The Little LOVE Bug: To be honest, a lot! I am not sure I could put it into hours, but if I had to I would say 20 or more hours per week.
EKTT: Please tell us ONE thing you wish all EtsyKids Team members would do to make your life easier as the EtsyKids Team Co-Leader.
The Little LOVE Bug: I would have to say to visit our Ning group at least once a week to read updates and join in on discussions. Also, to be sure to join and post in your Regional Groups on Ning.
EKTT: How about EKTT Curators in particular?
The Little LOVE Bug: Please keep checking the ABC member list on Ning to make sure you are featuring active EtsyKids Team members in your treasuries.
The Little LOVE Bug: That is simple--be with my daughters and husband. I love watching my daughters grow and just enjoy being kids.
EKTT: What is the one handmade possession or craft tool you could not live without?
The Little LOVE Bug: My rotary cutter and my circle cutter. It just makes cutting so much easier.
EKTT: Please share one really weird compulsion, habit, or fixation of yours--we know you've got one!
The Little LOVE Bug: I am not sure, I will have to ask my husband. :)
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Thank you, Jocelyn, for taking time out of your busy schedule to grant us a behind-the-scenes look at one of our EtsyKids Team Co-Leaders! And if you think I won't hunt your husband down for the answer to what weird little quirks you have...well, you're right! For now...
The Little LOVE Bug keeps our team running smoothly, let's all be sure to support her in each of these fine online locations:
Big shout out to Jocelyn for this great feature... she is the calm in the eye of the storm!
ReplyDeleteCongrats Little Love Bug! Love your toys.
ReplyDeleteGreat Interview! I may need that banana for my niece!!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much! I am so excited and honored to be featured this month. EKTT and Loren thank you so much for all you do for the team.
ReplyDeleteThank YOU, Jocelyn, for all you do for all of us! We're honored to feature you this month. xo
ReplyDelete