Lil Did: We have a winner!

Last month I ran a contest for a free pair of hand-made earrings from Jessie Wilding, owner/designer from Lil Did.

I received 10 entries and there was a random draw – each entry was assigned a number – I asked my son to pick a number between 1 and 10. He choose 9 and Wayne MacPhail won the earrings for his lovely wife Barb.

And by the way, Lil Did has a great promo on now: Buy one item, get 20% off a second item of equal or lesser value. You can also join her mailing list and you’ll be automatically entered for a monthly giveaway.

Thanks Jessie!

Stay tuned for another giveaway coming up soon!

photo credit: wmacphail on flickr

Win a pair of handmade earrings from Lil Did

Local jewelry designer Jessica Wilding asked me if I’d tell you about her jewelry business, Lil Did Jewelry & Accessories. In return, she’s giving away a pair of black onyx sterling silver eardrops (pictured) as a gift to one of you.

According to Jessica, “The inspiration for this piece started from one of my first designs where I created these wire birds’ nests. They were interesting to look at and I had many compliments on them. From there I made “tornado” style birds’ nest earrings that were simply a wire funnel, then I decided to incorporate gemstones into that style.”

I love giving props to local artists and designers so I agreed. All you need to do is send me an email telling me what special offer Lil Did has on now no later than Tuesday, August 19 11:59 p.m. EST. Each email will count as one entry (limit: one entry per person). A draw will be held and the winner will be announced on Wednesday, August 20.

An interview with Jessica Wilding, Lil Did Jewelry & Accessories

Recently, I interviewed Jessica Wilding of Lil Did Jewelry & Accessories. She sells her handcrafted jewelry designs on Etsy. It’s a wonderful online marketplace providing artists a hassle-free way to sell their crafts directly to consumers.

When did you start designing jewelry?

I began making jewelry for friends and family as Christmas gifts and really did enjoy the process of creating wearable art. Relatives started buying my jewelry to give as gifts. I decided to try opening a simple shop online to showcase and display my jewelry. I dedicate almost all my spare time to it, while still working full time.

I started out making earrings with silver plated components and glass beads, now I use semi-precious gemstones and sterling silver or gold filled components so that the pieces last longer, and are safe for those allergic to nickel.

Tell us about your experience on Etsy.

I’ve had 74 sales on my website since last Oct. and most of my clients are in the U.S., but I have had quite a few sales in Canada. I've also sold to a few people in the UK, Norway, and Germany as well.

What would you like people to know about your approach?

I do custom orders, and have worked closely with my clients to create pieces or recreate pieces they've lost, and all of those experiences have been wonderful.

I like to price my jewelry so that it is affordable, yet original and different. I don’t think you have to pay hundreds of dollars to own a unique piece. Jewelry should be fun and affordable. Keeping my price points low allows customers to pick up a few different pieces to go with many different outfits.