Putting all your Eggs in One Basket

I know having more then one online shop is the norm, I have two myself.  If you only work one shop, and the other just sit's out there, is it worth it to have two shops?

I don't really have the time to market both shops effectively, write my blog, and create new items. So one of my shops does not get many views, and I have been debating on how much longer I should keep it open.

What your opinion?  Do you think it's worth it to have more then one shop?

I know the saying, don't put all your eggs in one basket, but I don't know if it is worth it to spend money on a site that is not generating any income.

Organized Quick Tip - Holiday Shopping

The holiday shopping season is upon us. Are you excited about shopping or are you dreading every moment?

Even if you don’t like shopping, going to the mall or a department store does not have to be the worse part of your day. Here's a few organization tips to make your next shopping trip a little less dreadful.

1.Start with a list of gift ideas – be specific and write them down (not just in your head), it will help you not deviate from your plan

2.Create a budget – research gift items on line, print coupons, and write a price range next to the gift item

3.Look online for the mall/store directory – viewing the maps and knowing where the stores/departments are located will help you determine where to park, what door to enter/exit through, and where to get a snack :). Even though you are there to shop for others, buy yourself a treat (I like caramel corn)

4.Dress comfortably – especially shoes (if you are shopping with someone else make sure they have on comfortable shoe as well)

5.When you arrive, park in a well lit area, lock your car, and consult the in-store directory and posted signs to confirm the location of where you shop (pull out your list and make note of location next to gift item)

Take a deep breath, get a snack, don't forget to pick up something for yourself, and have fun!

If you are indecisive, a procrastinator, or hate shopping all together:

•Do all of the above and go to the mall/store 90 minutes before it closes and in the middle of the week, there will be fewer shoppers - be patient! If you shop late stores will be a little messier and retail staff may be a little crabbier (being calm makes thing a little more manageable)

•Have a hands free experience – carry a small purse with essentials or use an over the should bag so you don’t have to juggle multiple things in your hands

•Listen to your favorite music with a MP3 player or iPod

Want stress free shopping? Shop online.  Visit Etsy or Artfire.com for a wonderful collection of handmade and vintage gift ideas.  Don't forget to check each shop for shipping deadlines to ensure you receive your gifts before the holidays.

As much as I like to lollygag and window shop there are times when I need to be efficient and being prepared with an organized plan is always very helpful.

Do you enjoy shopping and the crowds or do you dread hitting the mall?

Pam Moore
Open Space
Pam Moore - An aspiring organizer attempting to conquer one space at a time. As a professional coordinator, she sees the big picture, then breaks it down into details, to achieve end results. She uses these skill in organizing spaces by assessing clients needs and collaboratively finding solutions for functional spaces. You won't need an organizer, you can look forward to tips and tricks through out the year to organize your own space.

Be My Inspiraiton

I love blogging, but sometimes I find writing posts very challenging.  I have been trying to write blog posts and my newsletter for the last couple of days, and I have been struggling for ideas.

I thought today I would look to you for inspiration, find out what you enjoy most about this blog. 

What are your favorite blog topics?

What do you do when you get stuck?

I look forward to your ideas for inspiration!
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Tomorrow guest blogger Pam Moore will be back with the first post of her weekly series for staying organized this holiday season.

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GRAND OPENING 

for my Artfire shop

FREE SHIPPING

November 1 - 7

Artfire Shop

Artfire Shop

Grand Opening

November 1, 2010

I've jumped on board and opened an Artfire shop.  I have been working on it for the last few week getting it ready for my Grand Opening on November 1. 

There are lots of features on Artfire and I have been trying to figure out all the ways to make my shop memorable.

I am hoping that having an Artfire shop will give me a few more sales this holiday season. I know it won't be like having a Etsy shop, but a few more sales never hurt.

Do you have an Artfire shop?  Share a tip on how you make your shop look good, and get your shop noticed on Artfire.