I Won! I Won!

This is the very first giveaway I have ever won! Seriously.
I won a really darling dress, petticoat and bloomers set for a 20-23" prim raggedy doll!
http://esthersmercantile.blogspot.com/2011/03/giveaway-reminder-drawing-is-26-march.html
Danice creates such wonderful clothing items (for humans and dolls) and I am very very happy to get to add this to my collection!
Thank you, Danice, for putting on this giveaway! I hope everyone had fun!
Dolly Hugs,
Holly

Shop Hop Saturday Online Shop Interview with Esther's Mercantile

Good morning!

I am participating in a great blog devoted to promoting online business. “Shop Hop Saturday” is a wonderful venue for promoting your own blog and helping others with their promtotions.  I’ve chosen to write an interview with Danice Gentle, owner of Esther’s Mercantile. Danice’s final statement at the end of the interview expressed this perfectly. 

1. Danice, when did you start your business and did you have any planning for this endeavor or jump in? 

“I started my business in January of 2011. It was planned ahead of time”. 

2. Would you please tell us about your main product/service ? 

“Main products/service: sell handmade Americana and prim needfuls. This includes raggedy dolls, doll clothing,  wood birdhouses, curtain valances, among other items”.

3. How do you schedule your time for the various aspects of running your business? For promotion, for production?   

“I schedule my time all during the day. I am listed in several Topsites lists, and have paid for some advertising incl. at Hat Creek. I sew and craft mostly at night”.

4. What would you say is THE ONE THING that makes your business unique from many others?

“ONE THING that makes Esther's unique is that I try to use all-natural fabrics/supplies whenever possible. I also try to design with the styling of the Americana/frontier eras in mind”.

5. What kind of advice would you give to others who are starting out with a business similar to yours or working basically online? 

“My Advice to others: plan your business and website design. Don't skimp on the planning. Try to use keywords that accurately describe your site to the search engines, and try to get to know as many other crafters as possible. This will help you gain new precious friends, as well as possibly help your website sales. Treat other crafters as you would like to be treated. The friendships are worth far more than the money”.

Thank you so much, Danice, for participating in this interview! Your advice would be well used in all aspects of online and offline business.

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Esther’s Mercantile

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