Bootsie Marie Boutique

Facebook vs. Blogger

2011-01-19T07:43:00.001-08:00

Since everyone seems to be on Facebook, this blog is going to become a thing of the past.

I will keep it up for about another month but all of my updates on shows and events will be on Facebook.

If you do not have a Facebook account, please email me at bootsiemarie@ymail.com and I will be happy to add you to my mailing list!

Thanks!
Jill

O.M.G!

2010-10-21T07:31:00.000-07:00

Yes, I have fallen off the face of the planet and into the land of taking care of 3 children along with doing a regular show every week and throw in some home shows along with that. PHEW!!!

This Saturday I will be at Conant High School in Hoffman Estates. :o) Look for my hubby and kids. I believe it is from 9-4.

I actually have 2 weekends off and then I start up again until the end of the year.

Jordan and I are booking home shows for January and February if anyone is interested.

www.bootsiemarie.com

2010-07-01T08:09:00.001-07:00

COMING LATE SUMMER/EARLY FALL 2010!

You asked, you will receive!

(As if I don't have enough on my plate as it is.) :o)

BREAK TIME!

2010-06-29T08:20:00.000-07:00

PHEW! Thankfully I am on a break until my next show which will be the Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival in Chicago, August 21-22, 2010!

I will be debuting new felt clippies and lots of GLITTER!

Baby Will is making his arrival in a little under 2 weeks and we have been busy getting our house and lives in order along with a little weekend fun with the kids.

Thank you to the ladies in Minooka who made last Saturday so much fun! It was my last home party until September. I still have some dates open for the remainder of the year so email me if you are interested in hosting a non-pressure, super fun, bow party!

Thank you again, and again, and again for all of your love and support!

YAWZA! I'm behind!

2010-06-14T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy with home shows/craft shows that I haven't updated out here in a MONTH! YIKES!

As everyone who has seen me lately or has been reading knows we will have a new, sweet, addition to our family in just under 4 weeks. If you read our family blog you will know we have so much to do and so little time. Story of our lives. :o)

I am finishing up one more home show at the end of the month and then will be taking a fairly short break (a little over a month) to get settled in to being a mom of 3 all while getting inventory ready for my big yearly event in the city in August. (More info to come!)

September's weekends are filled with more home shows and craft shows, and October and November are filling up fast also.

Thank you all for your continued support of Bootsie Marie and handmade goods!

Custom Shop Closed

2010-05-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

If you are a fan on Facebook you will know that I have accepted all of the custom orders that I secretly can't handle. :o) If you are not a Facebook fan yet, shame on you!

I have plenty in regular inventory and will be featured at home parties in June. If you would like an invite to one of them, email me! I will not be publicly advertising the locations due to the parties being held in private homes.

I will be completely off in July for the birth of Baby Will and then will pick back up at the end of August with my big show in the city. WOOT!

The rest of the year is PACKED, PACKED, PACKED with craft shows and plenty of new inventory!

Thank you all for your support!

Where's Bootsie?

2010-04-26T13:34:00.000-07:00

On May 1st you will be able to find me at my last real show until Baby Will is born.

Marklund at Mill Creek
1 South 450 Wyatt Drive
Geneva, Illinois 60134
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Admission: ??? (I can't remember!)

I cannot deny that my old, pregnant, body is so happy to only have home shows in June after this weekend. :o)

I will be taking custom orders up until July 1st and will try to post 4th of July items on Facebook.

What is your style?

2010-04-16T10:05:00.000-07:00

I was asked this question not so long ago so I thought I would take a few minutes out of my day and let you know. :o)

Simple, "every day wear" items.

As most of you know, I do not do fancy schmancy over the top bows. OK, sometimes I do fancy schmancy flip flops for special occasions or vacations but I like that my items can be worn with any thing, any day. Hey, even I put a aqua bow in Josie's hair when she is wearing pink!

I like clean and simple in my everyday life and I have tranferred that to my work.

I have been working my big, fat, pregnant fingers to get flip flops and bows done for my next show!

Come see me at Marklund in Geneva on May 1st! This is my last real craft show until Baby Will makes his appearance although I have quite a few home shows scheduled before I officially lose any sanity that I may have left. :o)

One more show...one more show...

2010-03-10T11:21:00.000-08:00

Pregnant women should not be allowed to do craft shows, let alone two in a row.

It took me 3 days to recover from the CRAZY Saturday at Minooka High School!

This Saturday I will be at Waubonsie Valley High School in Aurora from 9-3.

COME SEE ME!

Waubonsie High School is on the corner of Ogden & Eola in Aurora and admission is $2.

Let the insanity begin!

2010-02-18T08:10:00.000-08:00

Oh Lordy, what have I done to myself?

Here is my current show schedule.

3/6
Minooka High School
Minooka, IL 60447 (We are a small town, you will find it!)
9:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m.

3/13 (HOLY CRAP!)
Waubonsie Valley High School, Main Campus
2590 Ogden Avenue
Aurora, IL 60504
9:00 a.m - 3:00 p.m.

Hope to see you at one of the shows!

Spending money to make money.

2010-02-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

UGH. I hate spending money. No really, I DO! I would much rather be making it than giving it to someone else but my pathetic tent wasn't going to hold up to the amount of shows I have planned (in my head) this year.

I learned my lesson on not having an "easy up" tent in Chicago last summer as my wonderful friend Jordan helped Scott and I get my beast up, then I learned another lesson, to have tent walls, in Coal City when it poured down rain for HOURS and ONCE AGAIN, my friend Jordan came to my rescue by helping me plastic my tent. Although, I did make the most money I ever had at a one day show even selling wet bows. HMMMMMM....

So today the bullet was bit and I ordered a fancy-schmancy EZ-UP tent WITH 4 walls! Jordan will be pleased. :o)

Now I have no choice but to book more shows to pay for this bad boy.

Happy New Year!

2010-01-19T08:39:00.000-08:00

My vacation is over. BOOOO! I am now in creative mode again in preparation for my first show of 2010. Look for lots of new products and designs!

Saturday, March 6th:
Minooka High School
Minooka, IL 60447
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Admission has been $1 in the past with Children being Free.

P.S. I am taking LIMITED orders because even though I am technically in my 2nd trimester (YIKES!) I am still exhausted. :o(

Winter Break

2009-12-28T07:34:00.001-08:00

I have to not-so-secretly admit that I am enjoying my Bootsie Marie downtime. I have enjoyed my kids, after Christmas shopping, and even dinner and a musical downtown with my husband. (If you were thinking The Addams Family sounds like a stupid show, much like myself, you are SOOOOO WRONG! IT IS FANTASTIC!!!)

I am also enjoying the break because my 1st trimester fatigue is in full swing and I got a nice Christmas gift of morning sickness from our unborn child. If you call our house after 7:30 p.m., I will most likely be sleeping, if you call before 7:30 a.m., I am most likely barfing. :o)

Thank you all for your encouragement and especially your support during a very difficult 2009. Here is to better days in 2010!

My next show will be in March at Minooka High School. More details to follow as the show gets closer.

A new addition to Bootsie Marie Boutique.

2009-12-14T14:14:00.000-08:00

Nope, it is not a bow or a clip. It is a BABY! Yes, I will "officially" be insane next July as we add to our family yet again.

I am sad to say that my website is once again on hold, but for a pretty darn good reason this time. :o)

I am due in the middle of July, perfect for me as I always take this time off from shows to gear up for my big August event!

For once, some good news. :o)

Desperately seeking...

2009-12-09T07:54:00.000-08:00

...the customer who paid for her 3 cupcake bows but still hasn't emailed me her address to send them! :o)

Please email me at bootsiemarie@ymail.com

Thanks!
Jill

P.S. Come see me in Elwood this weekend! Last show of 2009!

It is official, I AM the kiss of death!

2009-11-30T12:20:00.000-08:00

Not long after I had mentioned one of my goals was to be one of Oprah's favorite things, she decides to retire AND discontinue her favorite things THIS YEAR.

Really people, stay away!

OK, not really because I will be at:

12/5
Gingerbread Junction
Hill Middle School
1836 Brookdale Road
Naperville, IL 60563
9AM - 3PM

12/12
Elwood PTO
409 N. Chicago Avenue
Elwood, IL
9AM - 3PM

In Memory of Roeni Tice, 11/1996-11/2009

2009-11-09T09:26:00.000-08:00

Yeah, I'm the kiss of death. Yesterday, we had to say good-bye to the greatest Golden Retriever and friend a family could ever want. He was my hubby's bestie for 13 years and I had the privilege of being his Momma for the past 8. In honor of his memory, I present:

Roeni (Pronounced Row-knee) the Reindeer!

My crazy life.

2009-11-02T07:14:00.000-08:00

Will my life ever get back to "normal?" Whatever "normal" was. :o(

I have had to cancel this weekend in Oswego because I am just not ready. Not ready, product wise, not ready mentally. Pretty pathetic, huh? :o)

I tried to get into the Minooka High School show on the 14th but it is full. BAH!

So, my next show is December 5th in Naperville.

Gingerbread Junction
Hill Middle School
1836 Brookdale Road
Naperville, IL 60563
9AM - 3PM

Showing off Bootsie...um, I mean a Fab Fall Feltie!

2009-10-28T14:11:00.000-07:00

OK, so I think our daughter happens to be the cutest little girl on the planet...I am biased. :o) Here she is at a local Pumpkin Farm showing off her Fab Fall Feltie on a baby snap. P.S. Click the pictures to enlarge.

Divine Intervention?

2009-10-23T09:03:00.000-07:00

Just as a teaser, WAIT UNTIL YOU SEE WHAT IS UP MY SLEEVE FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Thank you Dad, for sending me some creative juju.

I have recruited my mom to help me, hopefully I don't have to fire her again. :o)

New headbands and felt clippies coming up!

Getting out of the "funk."

2009-10-16T07:40:00.001-07:00

I decided I have done enough feeling sorry for myself and my family (for now!) and need to get some of the "funk" out by creating. Let me tell ya, bows have been a good distraction and I hope my Dad sends me some serious creative mojo from Heaven. Dang, I just realized when I made my wish list to him in the hospital, I forgot to add that!

I have placed my ribbon orders and will be swinging into full gear (aka, REALLY BEHIND for my next show!) early next week for my next show on November 7th. Here are the details!

Oswego High School Craft Show
4250 Route 71
Oswego, IL
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Cost: $3

I am still not taking any custom orders as of now as I don't want to get overwhelmed and go backwards with my spirit and attitude. :o) BUT, I have decided that I am going to get a site up and running during my downtime in late December-January. So much for "downtime", huh? :o)

Thank you all, AGAIN and AGAIN and AGAIN, for all of your support, understanding, emails, cards and prayers during this EXTREMELY difficult time in my life. I had the World's Greatest Dad, which makes it all even harder. :o(

On hiatus.

2009-10-05T20:36:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, and as I mentioned in a previous post, my Dad has been very ill for the past 3 months. Unfortunately he passed away today surrounded by his family. :o( My Dad was one of my biggest supporters and would tell me not to take any time off, but I am exhausted and beyond filled with sadness so I am taking a bit of time off until my next show in November.

I am sorry for any inconvenience this causes, but I need time to be with my family.

Thank you for understanding,
Jill

Back to Reality...

2009-09-29T12:33:00.001-07:00

I think we are finally settled back into our old routine since returning from Disney World last week. It was a much needed, OUTSTANDING, vacation. So much that we actually considered booking another Disney vacation for next year before we left but we reminded that Josie still wouldn't be old enough for all of us to enjoy it.

I am busy busting my rump for Saturday's show in Coal City. Octoberfest is located in their downtown area and my booth is by the post office and Boy Scout sponsored activities. Please come see me anytime between 9-5. :o)

On another show note, I am super excited to let you know that I was chosen to be part of the 28th Annual Juried Gingerbread Junction Craft Fair in Naperville on December, 5th. The show will be held at the Hill Middle School, 1836 Brookdale Road, Naperville, IL from 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m., admission is $2.

On a personal note, I am no longer accepting custom orders for the remainder of the year, unless we have already talked. As many of you know, my Dad has been very ill since my parent's 50th Wedding Anniversary in early July and I really need to have some Family/Work balance. (Thank you, Scott for making me do this!) It is all suffering right now. I could literally spend 24 hours a day on custom orders, but simply don't have the time. I continue to add new inventory each month so hopefully you will find something that you like. :o) Thank you all for understanding. I only have one Dad and I don't ever want to look back with any regret. :o)

If you don't follow me on Facebook, here are the Fab Fall Felties that will debut this weekend! Hope to see you there!

Next Show

2009-09-03T08:49:00.000-07:00

I have been asked to post my next show information so here you go! Actually, I think I was asked to post it on Facebook, but I will post it here too! :o)

October 3, 2009
Coal City Octoberfest
Downtown Coal City
Sponsored by the Coal City Junior Women's Club
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. (LONG DAY!)

Coming up this weekend, FAB FALL FELTIES! I have been working on them this week in between filling orders and answering emails. PHEW!

Become a Fan on Facebook!

2009-09-01T11:40:00.001-07:00

I have been meaning to let everyone know of Bootsie Marie Boutique's Facebook page for ummmmmm, MONTHS now! So here I am, asking (begging) you to become a fan. :o)

Simply search for Bootsie Marie Boutique like you would a friend (or enemy!) on Facebook and Bootsie Marie Boutique (and myself!) will pop up in the results. Friend me, also, if you would like!

First Day of School

2009-08-26T11:15:00.001-07:00

I normally don't post personal items on my business blog, but many customers have become friends and have asked about Tanner so I thought I would share his first day of Pre-School picture. :o)

We have been blessed to be able to send him to Lutheran school this year and we (meaning ME!) survived his first day with a gold star. It is hard to believe he is in school. :o(

P.S. Dug, the dog from Up, didn't attend but was waiting for him in the car when we picked him up. :o)

P.P.S. Click on the picture to make it bigger.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

2009-08-25T11:31:00.001-07:00

I think I have finally recovered from the weekend festivities at the Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival and all I can say is THANK YOU!

Everyone who stopped by was so much fun and all of the compliments were fabulous. You are what keeps me going and I appreciate you buying handmade.

I think my favorite part was when people would ask me if I had a store and when I told them no and they said I should. I also loved the comments on how everything is so cute you don’t know what to pick. Seriously, you all made my weekend!!!

I cannot wait until next year and I promise to have kittens, frogs and monkey items along with dog bows. :o)

THANK YOU, THANK YOU again, and again!

P.S. Please don't forget to become a fan on Facebook!

On Being Spaz-tastic!

2009-08-21T12:25:00.000-07:00

OK, so the whole "You Are Doing a 2 Day, 8 Hours Each Day" show has officially hit me. I feel ill. Please, Lord, let this weekend be successful!

What if no one buys anything? What if I don't have enough? What if it rains? What if I am so swamped I can't keep up? What if we can't get the new display looking good. What if, what if, what if! WAAAA!

I am a weenie, but human.

I have soooo many new items rolling out at this show and so many more in my head! I am a mental mess. :o)

The new items that will be featured this weekend are:
New felt clippies
Bitty Bows
Boutique Bows
Zebra Beanies
Curly Ostrich Feathers
Braided Headbands
Badge Reels
New korker color combinations such as zebra!

If you are attending the festival and would like to say hello and see me spaz in person, my tent will be located right near the kid's entertainment tent (WOOT!) on the corner of Glenwood and Morse. (DOUBLE WOOT!)

Need Custom Invitations???

2009-08-19T07:47:00.000-07:00

If you saw Josie’s Birthday BBQ invite, you will know how cute it was! If not, go to tentinytoes prints to check it out!

My wonderful, talented, friend, Alison, (who happens to be from Nebraska) is offering SUPER CUTE, custom, invites, cards, notepads, stationary etc. at a fantastic price!

Please check her out and think about buying handmade before ordering from a big name supplier. :o)

Coincidence??? I used to think so, but now I don't know what to think!

2009-07-28T07:08:00.000-07:00

Lots of strange (good) things have been happening to me this last week. Things that have just been freaking me out. Yesterday was no exception.

I figured out that I messed up my show schedule yesterday. You would think having 2 electronic calendars and one paper calendar, I would have my act together...not quite! I discovered that I had myself scheduled for a show on the weekend of my 15th class reunion, which with the help of our whole class, I have been trying to get planned. DOH! Scott and I both have reunions this year, two weekends in a row, to add to the craziness!

SOOOOOO, unfortunately I had to cancel my appearance at the Conant High School show. :o(

I found another show that I thought would be fun and called for information yesterday. Last night I had a message that the coordinator of the show had just found my business card (she saw me at another show) and WAS GOING TO CALL ME!!! CREEPY!!!!

Sooooooo, my October show will be:

October 3, 2009
Coal City Junior Women's Club Octoberfest
9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
Downtown area of Coal City

I love when it all works out!

Woven Headbands

2009-07-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

PHEW! Just when I think I have enough going on, I take on a new product.

I had been admiring the works of the talented ladies in my bow group and decided I needed to give woven headbands a shot. Here is what I produced on my first try:

At the suggestion of my peers the flower on all future headbands will be detachable and the set (the woven headband and flower clip) will sell for $8.

Coming up soon (I swear my brain NEVER STOPS!), a new line of felt flower button clippies thanks to my hubby winning some $$$ in a raffle. WOOT!

Momma Needs a Vaca!

2009-07-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Let me tell ya, Disney in September CAN'T.COME.FAST.ENOUGH! I have finally (officially) stopped taking orders. Yeah, yeah, I have said it before, but it is true, so don't tempt me by emailing me. :o)

This week's focus has been my new stretchy headbands, next week...who knows! I am already fried. :o)

Here is a small sampling of my efforts. Please ignore my lousy set-up, I am lame lately...well, always!

Show Schedule

2009-07-06T14:06:00.000-07:00

I have been asked to post my show schedule so away we go! (With as much information I can give.)

August 22-23, 2009
Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival
The Fest is held along Glenwood Ave at Morse Ave in Rogers Park on Chicago's north side.
Are you tired of hearing of this one yet??? :o)

September
OFF, due to our Disney World trip. YAY!!!

October 17, 2009
30th Annual Conant High School Arts and Craft Fair
700 East Cougar Trail, Hoffman Estates, IL
(This is the same day as my hubby's 20th reunion, he graduated from Conant, and the weekend after my 15th reunion, so I will be POOPED the next day!)

November 7, 2009
Oswego High School, 4250 Route 71, Oswego, IL
9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Price: $3

I haven't chosen a December show yet so if you know of any you think I would like, drop me an email at bootsiemarie@ymail.com

If you are one of my "anonymous" readers, stop and say "hello!"

Best Wishes,
Jill

Ask and you shall receive.

2009-06-29T11:21:00.001-07:00

You asked for them, here they are, simple bows!

Attached to a double prong, partially lined, non-slip grip clip, they measure approximately 4" and sell for $3 each.

Another Sneaky Peek

2009-06-26T11:37:00.000-07:00

August is a big month for Bootsie Marie Boutique. I am participating in my first outdoor show and it is a whopper! Two 8 hour days on August 22-23, 2009 at the Glenwood Avenue Arts Festival in Chicago. (Northside...HOLLA!) Eh-hmmmm, back to business.

So, I have been busy thinking, researching, making...trying to come up with some fresh ideas because who wants to see the same old stuff every show???

I came across a SUPER cute puppy embellishment and the Ruthie Puppy was born! Named after our Golden Retriever, Ruthie, of course!

Ruthie Puppy will officially debut at my August show, although Josie has already been sporting her and I do have some orders in my book. She will be available in a variety of flower colors, attached to a lined clippie with a non-slip grip, and will be priced at $3.00.

Debuting in August...

2009-06-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

Skinny Headbands! The price has not been decided upon yet, but will either be $3 or $4.

Not only will I be offering stretchy skinny headbands, but also traditional plastic headbands too! Many color combinations as well as custom will be offered. SO CUTE!

Josie modeled the latest in Bootsie Marie hair pretties at a friend's baby shower and I had orders before the shower even began. :o) (If you click on the photos you can see an enlarged view.)

Chicago Cubs Flip Flops

2009-05-29T08:57:00.000-07:00

WOW! These have TAKEN OFF (Much to my hubby's dismay. GO WHITE SOX!) and are the cause of my late nights and need for caffeine!

Flip flops are the ONLY ITEMS I am going to take orders for at this time. They are $15 and colors may vary based on ribbon availability but I can guarentee you they will be CUTE CUTE CUTE! Any team, college, MLB, NBA, NHL, NFL can be made!

Please email me with any questions. bootsiemarie@ymail.com

Many Thanks!
Jill

It's that time...

2009-05-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

I should have posted this last week but I have been swamped with flip flops. (THANK YOU, TAHNK YOU!)

The time has come where Bootsie Marie Boutique is no longer accepting any orders or doing any sales until after the Glenwood Avenue Fest in Chicago, August 22-23, 2009.

I am in MAKE MAKE MAKE mode!

Come see myself, Jordan and Mary! Jordan pressured me into it and I, being a lovely friend to Mary, pressured and guilted her into it! :o) We have become quite the trio at craft shows. :o) Mary, by the way, makes GORGEOUS usable glass art...think margarita glasses, pitchers, plates...AND sells super yummy Tastefully Simple! We became fast friends over Beer Bread. :o)

Please visit www.glenwoodave.org to see where we will be!

Thank you all for your understanding!

Say It With A Sign

2009-05-21T14:07:00.001-07:00

I think by now everyone has figured out that I love to support those who sell handmade items and I like to feature local talent.

My latest purchase is from Say It With A Sign.

How cute is this?!?!?! Please ignore any little finger prints or Golden Retriver nose prints. :o)

If you are looking for any "word" art (especially anything custom), please consider placing an order with Say It With A Sign, instead of a large retailer or home party company. :o)

Northside vs. Southside

2009-05-15T08:40:00.001-07:00

Even though it breaks my hubby's heart, I not only made White Sox bows, but also their Northside Rivals, the Cubs. In addition to Chicago's beloved teams, I can do any team you request.

Here 2 examples of what I am offering for $3.50 each, although I should charge 3x more for a Cubs bow. :o) I have other designs that I will also be offering and have finally started listing some items on Etsy. :o)

My how you have grown!

2009-05-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday was another fun and successful show. Thank you, again and again, to my current customers who have become friends for visiting (and buying!) and thank you to all of my new customers.

As much as it is great to make money, I think even Scott was as impressed as I was with how many compliments I got on my products and designs. Especially considering the night before each and every show I panic that my bows aren't cute enough to sell and I wonder what the heck I am doing in this business. I wonder if this will ever go away? I guess it is good to be grounded.

I always get a good laugh with those who first became intoduced to Bootsie Marie Boutique at my very first show in Bolingbrook. We laugh about my small little table with korkers, 2 set of clippies and some tuxedo bows. Even with my sad amount of items, I did GREAT at the show. Korkers have been, and I predict will always be, my biggest seller. Of course, because they are a pain in the butt to make. :o)

I need to find an old picture of my sad booth from back in the day. While I don't have a set up that I love yet, (I REALLY want a wire stand up booth.), I have come a long way.

Here are pics of Saturday's booth. I need to come up with something cute for my flip-flops...and everything else. :o) Please ignore any hanging material, I was pooped!

Because I am too excited to wait until Saturday's show...

2009-04-29T07:46:00.000-07:00

Toddler Flip Flops are here and will be followed with bigger girl designs this week!

The flip flops will sell for $10 at the show and $12 regularly.

Without further ado...

Thank you and Next Show Information

2009-04-27T07:14:00.000-07:00

First and foremost thank you to everyone who came to visit me at the Bolingbrook Kid's Expo. I had a great time meeting new customers and seeing some of my current customers. Josie "Bootsie Marie" was excited to see you all too! Tanner was more excited about the trucks and bouncy-houses, but what do you expect from a boy? :o)

I was so happy that my new products were as popular as I hoped. I sold out of my White Sox and Cubs bows. YAY!

My next show is this Saturday, where I will be introducing the FLIP FLOPS! YAY!

Please come see me and other fine crafters at:
Marklund
1 South 450 Wyatt Drive
Geneva, IL 60134

Show hours are from 9-4.

Something new!

2009-04-06T08:20:00.001-07:00

It isn't a product...it is my new logo! See above!

2009 Price List

2009-04-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

I hate when prices go up, but as a business owner, I get it now. Thankfully I haven't had to adjust much.

The new Bootsie Marie Boutique price list is as follows:

Clippie Set: $3.00

Snap Clip: $2.00

Bitty Korker: $3.00

Medium Korker: $4.00

Large Korker: $5.00

Firecrackers: $5.00

Pony Streamers: $4.00 (Plain)
$5.00 (Fancy)

Adjustable Toggle Headbands: $2.00

Interchangable Headbands: $2.00

*NEW!* Ribbon Flip Flops: $12.00

***Special Orders: Double regular price. I hate to do that but it is becoming a necessity as I cannot buy in bulk for these orders. If I have your colors/prints in stock, you will be charged 1½ times the regular price.

You will notice that I am no longer selling beanies or toddler hats. These will be replaced with two specialty headbands that I am currently working on and will be priced at $4.00. More details to follow!

Thank you for your understanding.

Next Show: April 26, 2009- Bolingbrook Park District Expo (I am honored to have been asked to participate in their special event!)

Custom Order Update

2009-03-23T12:05:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe I am typing this but unless we have already talked, I will not be accepting any customer orders until further notice.

You are more than welcome to come view what I have in stock in person at my residence but I have too many shows in too short of a period coming up to be able to stay sane. :o)

Upcoming Show Schedule:

March 28th: Peru Catholic Schools, Peru, Illinois
April 26th: Bolingbrook Kid's Expo, Bolingbrook, Illinois
May 2nd: Marklund, Geneva, Illinois
June-August: OFF due to huge show in August and Vacation
August 22-23: Glenview Avenue Fest, Chicago, Illinois

Thank you for your understanding!

Adjustable Headbands!

2009-03-23T10:40:00.000-07:00

$2 each or 3 for $5. These were one of my biggest sellers at my last show.

Great for ALL ages! Here is my college age niece modeling for me. (I will get hate email for posting these pics of her!) She loved this one so much the next weekend she came home and took about 20 back with her. :o)

Snap Clips! Even Bootsie Can Wear Them!

2009-03-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

The lastest in the $2 each or 3 for $5 category. They come in a wide variety of colors and designs and even stay in the itty-bittiest hair!

Josie admiring her new bow. :o)

Minooka Craft Show Update!

2009-03-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

I am finally fully recovered. :o) I had the best time at this show! I was placed next to a FABULOUS booth and met another wonderful bow maker. Scotty even helped me the whole day and has a new respect for not only what I think up in my mind, but make and SELL!

Before I introduce the lovely ladies I mentioned in the first paragraph, I have to thank my Minooka Mom's Club ladies for coming to visit (and buying!) too!

Although Scott was not thrilled that I was sitting next to a booth that had the most adorable dresses...I WAS!!! He saw my profits going right down the tubes. BUT when he realized that people were buying her dresses then coming over to my booth to match a bow, he changed his mind. :o)

I was able to sneak these two beauties past my hubby.

Are these NOT THE CUTEST?!?!?!?! $15 gets you the dress AND embroidered name. She is making me 3 more. :o)

The "she" I keep referring to is Jordan. Click her name and contact her. You will NOT be disappointed!

The second lovely lady I met was another bow lady, Kathy. Click on her name too! I know you are probably thinking, "why would you want to promote your competition?" Well, the nice thing is, we do different bows and what I like to make, she doesn't have the patience for, and what she makes, I don't have the patience (or talent) for! And her tutus...ADORABLE!

Pics of new products coming up this week!

Thank you all for another successful show. I still cannot believe I am making this happen!!!

Cheer Bows!

2009-03-05T07:57:00.000-08:00

So, my sister conned me into coming up with and sending some samples to her local high school.

Along with a korker and firecracker went these...

Keeping my fingers crossed for an order.

Standardizing

2009-03-03T14:14:00.000-08:00

I am in desperate need of getting my inventory in check. I lots of this, a little of that, and too much "Oh crap! I forgot to order that!".

Thankfully I have very good financial connections and a game plan set up for me. I don't like to think "numbers", I just like to think "making." BUT, I am in this business to make money so I am making some changes. WAAAAAAA!

I will be standardizing. I hate that. I like to fly by the seat of my pants. I will have some OOAK (one of a kind) items but if I plan on making this work, I will be offering specific colors and color combinations at my shows and (finally!) online.

I have touched on this in a past entry but it makes sense. For my sanity and for my budget.

I will continue to pick up some cute OOAK ribbon when I see it but in the mean time start looking for my standard "recipes" to come out soon.

REMINDER!!! Come see me this Saturday at the Minooka High School craft show. :o)

Busy "Makin"

2009-02-20T08:24:00.000-08:00

I am finally (almost) done with my special orders and can now concentrate (sorta) on my show which is in two weeks. YIKES!!!

I am going to be unveiling some fun new accesories for the older girls and adults. Also, some super cutey-cute new lines. Think princess, strawberry, and lady bugs!

In the mean time, Josie finally got a new bow. Here is our little cutey-cute showing off her Valentine's Day korker which I took some close ups of as I added in some 1/4" korked ribbon to spice it up a bit.

I am a "the bigger the better" kinda girl when it comes to her bows.

Two Second Update, because that is all the time I have! :o)

2009-02-12T12:36:00.000-08:00

So my “investors”, aka Scotty and my parents, have convinced me (twisted my arm and waved some cash in my face...you think I am kidding.) to step it up a bit, get a little creative, introduce some new products.

I have been concentrating on korkers and clippies because they are my hottest sellers and I enjoy (feel confident) making them. But they are right. My inventory is getting stale.

I remember when I started, my game plan was to introduce something new each month. Let’s all laugh together! I also remember when I started that I never thought I would be getting bulk orders of 20 plus bows for one individual customer. :o)

With the start of a new show season I am thinking of retiring the old favorite flower bow unless specifically ordered, start coming up with a set line of korker colors that I will keep in stock (I am going to need cute names for the color combos…maybe a contest is in order?), and introduce bigger and better boutique style bows AND possibly begin printing my own custom ribbon. PHEW!

In other words, if I didn’t already have too much on my plate…I certainly do now! :o)

Order Update

2009-02-06T09:17:00.000-08:00

If we haven’t already talked (Heather), Bootsie Marie isn’t accepting any new custom orders until after my show on March 7th unless you are willing to wait for delivery at the end of the month. I just received a large order from a single person (thank you, Kris!) and since I am a one-woman show with a family…I do not need to cause anymore chaos than we already have with a 4 year old and 6 month old. :o)

I love this and it causes my head to spin all in one. :o)

Hopefully this will push Scott to finally move my work space to the basement this weekend. Momma needs a new bow home other than our kitchen table.

We're back!

2009-01-29T07:08:00.001-08:00

We have been back for a few days but my hubby and I were hit with the flu. Thankfully the kids didn't get it....knocking on wood.

Many of you have sent emails wondering when I am FINALLY going to get my inventory up and I will not be doing so until after my next show (I need the inventory for my show.) so keep your custom orders coming!!!

Next show:

March 7, 2009
Minooka High School
Minooka, Illinois 60447

I haven't found an April show I want to do yet but I believe I will be participating in the Tiller's Garden Festival in St. Charles on May 23, 2009.

Sorry so dry, I am still not quite myself. :o)

Small Hiatus. :o)

2009-01-13T13:39:00.000-08:00

I am officially not accepting any more orders until January 26th.

We are going on a little tripity-trip next week and I plan on enjoying myself without worrying about having to rush around before, during or after. :o)

Didn't I just have a break. :o)

Back in Action!

2009-01-07T09:25:00.000-08:00

I am back!

If you haven't already notice, I have wiped out my old photos in preparation for putting up my current inventory which should be up this weekend.

If you are interested in any custom items I am taking orders!

Here's to a wonderful 2009!

P.S. Next show should be at Minooka High School on March 7th. More details to follow.

Not quite a vacation...

2008-12-16T10:23:00.001-08:00

I got an order from a pom squad...couldn't turn it down...16 bows due by January 2nd...thrilled at what kind of business this could bring.

My last show was a HUGE success! I made enough to put the money we used for our new ejector and bigger sump pump back into our bank account. Even better than the money were all of my return customers and their referrals! I had women coming up to me telling me that their friend just called them and said they needed to come see me.

After Christmas I will have my Etsy inventory ready and be gearing up for the first shows I plan on doing in 2009 which will begin in March.

New show dates will be listed once they are confirmed.

Thank you all for making my first months of business so successful and I look forward to sharing 2009 with you all.

Happiest and Healthiest of Holidays to you all!

P.S. A few new photos have been posted...

Game Plan

2008-12-12T06:05:00.000-08:00

Saturday is my last show of 2008. THANK GOODNESS! Things will hopefully get back to normal at our house and I can work at a slower pace since I won't be back into "show action" until March 2009.

If you read our family blog you will know that I lost all of my November and December pictures on my SD card. SOB! Now you know why I only have 1/100th of my items in my photoalbum.

So, the plan is to wipe out all of my old photos of bows and take pics of what I have left from my last show tomorrow. Hopefully I won't have much left but all will be up for sale, but I will only sell what I have left, no special orders until January 2nd.

Maybe my Etsy store will actually get some items now!

Upcoming Schedule

2008-12-01T11:54:00.000-08:00

As much as I do not like to turn down business, I am simply buried right now between shows and special orders. As good as this is for our bank account; my sanity, Tanner's patience, and our house are taking a hit. :o)

If we have not already spoken, as of today I am no longer taking any orders for the remainder of the year. All sales will have to be through my shows these next two weekends and will be limited to what I have on hand.

My next two shows are:

December 6th at Marklund in Geneva and
December 13th at Bolingbrook High School

I will then close shop to spend time with my family and think up new designs from December 14, 2008 through January 1, 2009.

Sorry for the inconvenience but I do not want to compromise the quality of my bows by rushing to make them.

New pics!

2008-11-24T11:40:00.000-08:00

Please go check out the picture section to see what I have been up to. I am preparing for an open house on Friday, a craft show on Saturday and ANOTHER craft show the following Saturday all while still accepting special orders.

I am looking forward to two months of down time. :o)

The Small and the Ugly.

2008-11-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

The most asked question I get asked is why I started making bows. With everything on my plate, I often ask myself the same question. :o)

My answer is always the same: I was tired of giving other people too much money for bows that weren't worth it. I sell my bows at a price that I would pay for them and make them in a size that I would want and quality that I am proud of.

Here are some examples of the difference between Bootsie Marie Boutique bows and others.

Size difference between my small korker (on the right) and another small korker:

My lined clips verses unlined clips:

And someone who should NOT be making korkers AT ALL!:

Firecracker, Firecracker, BOOM, BOOM, BOOM!

2008-11-17T09:41:00.000-08:00

The latest in our collection! We call this the "Firecracker."

Can be placed on any kind of clip or pony "o" and can also be made smaller for piggies or smaller girls. And as always, I can so any color combo. This measures about 4" in diameter.

Being sold for $4.

Just as a reminder we have the following clips:
Alligator, which are covered and now lined with a non-slip grip.
French Barrette
and our newest:
Snap Clips and
Baby Barrettes (also can be used for bows for your pooch!)

Hair Bow Blitz!

2008-11-03T08:03:00.000-08:00

I am in overdrive mode. My first show is on Saturday and I have been internally freaking out and had a minor breakdown yesterday. (Our son was acting up and I told my hubby he hated me for making bows all the time.)

Here are the latest fruits of my labor. Tuxedo Bows on french clips. Perfect for girls growing out their bangs or those with a cute bob cut.

New Pics Up & New Style!

2008-10-30T06:39:00.000-07:00

I uploaded some bow pics for your viewing pleasure. PLEASE remember I can do any colors you would like.

There is a new member of the Bootsie Marie Family...Pony Tail Streamers. I need a long hair model though as the pics don't do the bows justice!

New Price List

2008-10-28T11:35:00.000-07:00

After going back and forth here it is!

Small Korkers….………………………………………….…$3.00

Medium Korkers……………………………………………..$4.00

Large Korkers…………………………………………….….$5.00

Clippie Set……………………………………………………$3.00

Piggie Sets……………………………………………………$4.00

Flower Bows…………………………………………………$4.00

Stacked Bows…………………………………………………$4.00

Pony Tail Streamers…………………………………………..$4.00

“Trademarked” Bows………………………………………….$6.00

Infant Beanie………………………………….…………...…$4.00

Toddler/Child Beanie………………………………………...$6.00

Headbands……………………………………………………$3.00

Flowers………………………………………………………$2.00

Picture Site...UPDATED!

2008-10-27T08:15:00.001-07:00

Because I cannot figureout how to make my posts all pretty when I add a picture, and because I have so many pictures, I have added a link to my photo site to the left or go to: www.flickr.com/photos/bootsiemarie/

Sorry folks, there are no pics of our cutey-cute kids on this one. :o) For those you can go to www.tannerandjosie.blogspot.com

P.S. Thank you Alison for catching my mistake!!! :o)

Upcoming Shows

2008-10-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Come and see me in person! Not that I am that exciting. :o)

November 8, 2008
9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Bolingbrook Park District
201 Recreation Drive
Bolingbrook, IL 60440

December 6, 2008
9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
Marklund Hyde Center
1 South 450 Wyatt Drive
Geneva, IL 60134
(I can thank Scotty for this one! Can you believe he researches craft shows now? HA!)

What do you get when you cross a korker with a flower bow?

2008-10-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

What do you get when all you do is make bows at night after your kids go to bed?

This is just a small sampling but you get the idea. :o)

Come meet me at the Bolingbrook Holiday Craft Show on November 8th!

Tami's Special Order

2008-10-20T11:13:00.001-07:00

I had a nice, big, special order to work on this weekend along with some other little ones. Here is the fruit of my labor for Tami.

Tami, thank you for giving me this opportunity even though I said nasty words under my breath while making the Packers Korker! :o)

Any bows that were a duplicate I didn't post a picture of and hopefully the colors come across as gorgeous as they are in person!

Bootsie Marie's Latest Additions.

2008-10-16T08:23:00.000-07:00

Please help me welcome the ”Flower” Bow and a new style of interchangeable headband!

The Flower Bow will be selling for $5 and in the headband will be $3. Like all of the other bows and headbands, you can get these in any color.

You may notice my Etsy shop is weak, it is going to be weak until after my first Craft Show. Come see me in Bolingbrook on November 8th! Yes, I am insane as it is the day before Tanner’s birthday party and Josie’s Baptism.

In the mean time I am busy, busy, busy trying to make an inventory of 100 bows and and 40 headbands.

Another new hair accessory will be introduced early next week. Stay Tuned!

New Products!

2008-10-15T09:27:00.000-07:00

I CANNOT WAIT to show you the new items I am working on! TOO EXCITING!

A new style of interchangeable headband and a new type of bow!

Pics to come soon!

Can you guess what I have been doing???

2008-10-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

New bows!

2008-10-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

A few new bows will be listed on Etsy tonight, but remember you can always buy directly from me and I love custom orders! :o)

Here is a sneaky peek at the latest additions. Thank you to Trish for allowing Carlee to model. While Tanner is cute, I don't think he would have been an appropriate toddler model.

Any bow you see can be modified to fit an infant also!

A new member of the Tice Family.

2008-10-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

No, it is not another child or Golden Retriever. :o)

Welcome to Bootsie Marie Boutique!

*DEEP BREATH!* So here I am, feeling fairly vulnerable.

I have only made a few things that I have sold but as vulnerable as I feel I am also excited to bring some great "boutique" items to you without the boutique price.

Boostie Marie Boutique was born after I realized how much I was spending on Josie's hairbows and headbands. As nice as they were I knew I could make them nicer and cheaper!

I began to make a few and hand them out to friends as testers. After hearing from everyone how I needed to sell them, here I am! Well, I am here after coming up with a company name...Bootsie Marie is Josie's nickname and since she is the reason I came up with this idea, it fit!

As of now, I am offering korker bows and spirit or cheer bows, and baby beanies with your choice of a korker or flower clip. I am hoping to add some fun, new items each month and would never sell anything I wouldn't put on my own children.

A little info about my bows:

1. All bows are handmade by me. :o)

2. All bows are heat sealed so they do not fray.

3. All bows come from a clean, smoke-free, Golden Retriever home.

4. I LOVE custom orders.

5. I love bulk orders even more! :o)

6. I do ship, $1.50 for the first bow, $.25 for each additional.

7. Buy a headband that is interchangeable! The possibilities are ENDLESS!

Price List:

Toddler/Child Korker: $5

Infant Korker: $3

Lycra Interchangeable Headbands: $3

Baby Beanies with Korker or Flower Clip: $8

Custom korkers please add $2.

Please email me with any questions!

You can order directly from me or please check out my Etsy store: bootsiemarie.etsy.com

P.S. I promise all of my posts won't be this "dry." :o)