Bloom with Mi children's book + crown GIVEAWAY

These past couple months, I've had the wonderful pleasure of working with one talented mama, Amy Kavelaris of Bloom Print Studio. She recently wrote her first children's book which is now a number one best seller! Congrats Amy! The inspiration behind Bloom with Mi is using our gifts to GIVE and love others which are characteristics that are so beautifully important to instill in our children. Order your book right here!

I was so excited when Amy contacted me to create some floral crowns to coordinate with Bloom with Mi to debut at Hope Spoken this weekend! I sent my largest order out of 31 crowns (33 if you count the later 2) a couple weeks ago and I'm so thankful to have worked with Amy.

Right now, Worth While Style is giving away a book and crown package on her Instagram page! Visit her page here and enter! Good luck!

Branding Changes + Winners

Ideas have been swarming in my head like bees around honey. It started a few days ago when I noticed that I'm just about out of buisness cards again. I need to order more but I'm to the point where I crave a new design-which in turn, had me thinking about branding.

I've been working on a few sketches for new logos, shop headlines, fonts and even a new name (which I can't seem to commit to just yet). It's making me a little loopy at times since I can't seem to make a decision. I can't stand the feeling of uncertainty and indecisiveness when it comes to such things but it's a work in progress just like everything else I'm learning as a small biz owner.

With my ideas though, I plan to launch the new look of Love Sparkle Pretty in May. That's my goal.

If you have any ideas or suggestions, I'd love to hear them! Also, if you can recommend graphic designers and/or print companies, it would be greatly appreciated.

As a side note, a winner has been chosen from the As Darling Does Giveaway! Was it you? Click here to find out! Also, if you didn't necessarily win the shop credit, count yourself a WINNER too because until Monday, use the code "Sparkle20" for 20% off your order over at As Darling Does! It's the cutest handmade shop for your littles with bow ties, headbands, blankets and bibs! Get your shop on!

Have a beautiful Thursday my friends. Looking forward to seeing all the #tbt!

{GIVEAWAY} As Darling Does handmade bow ties featured on our little man

A couple weeks ago, I received some ADORABLE happy mail from Kristen of As Darling Does. She sent me the cutest bow ties for our little man and since then, he has worn one at least 5 days of the week. I get so many questions on where they are from and today, I am so excited to announce that one lucky winner will have the chance to WIN $25 from this sweet handmade shop!! Not only does Kristen create bow ties for little dudes (finally, accessories for boys) but As Darling Does is also filled with really cool bibs, adorable hair bows for the little ladies and super soft blankets to cuddle!

I love putting bug in his bow ties and he doesn't seem to mind either! I followed him around a couple days as he wandered in the backyard (his favorite). He is such a nature baby. It's amazing to see the curiosity overflow from his tiny self. I wish I could see the world like he does-as innocent, facinating and new through his eyes. There's so much love and life that abounds through him. I want to hang onto and cherish these moments. The days are long but the years are short.

Checkered bow tie and feathered bow tie: As Darling Does

Little man's leather moccasins: Chubby Toes

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Didn't win? That's OK! Use the code "SPARKLE20" for 20% off your purchase at As Darling Does-a sweet handmade shop of accessories for your little ones! Click Here to see the cutest bow ties, headbands and baby blankets!

{GIVEAWAY} Valentine-Inspired Floral Crown

I am so thankful to have met Tori from The sTORIbook. She has been the sweetest and so incredibly gracious with her kind words! Today, she is hosting the very first giveaway of 2014 for Love Sparkle Pretty and what perfect timing before Valentine's Day (my favorite holiday).

I am giving away a valentine's inspired floral crown (valued at $65) to one lucky winner! Head on over to The sTORIbook to enter. Good luck my friends!

Photo Credit: Sunday Sky Photography

Photo Credit: Sunday Sky Photography

Photo Credit: Sunday Sky Photography

"Everyone stops to stare at the girl with the flowers in her hair."

{Creative Tea Time} Peek at Floral Crown Giveaway

It's been a whirlwind of craziness lately! I've been so busy in and outside of the craft room. I'm certainly not complaining though because it's all been really good. I've had meetings with brides for coordinating their 2014 weddings, cranking out floral crowns for the new line and the photo shoot this Friday (received 60+ model applicants in one day!!), birthday celebrations, family reunion, house work, yard work, running around with baby love, working on shop orders and everything in between.

Today though, I'm giving you a preview of some giveaway pretties I just shipped out for Creative Tea Time next weekend. Remember that uber pretty and super fun craft event I attended back in September? Well, I'm going back for round 2 this Saturday! So excited to sip tea, eat YUMMY food and work on some fun crafts with inspiring ladies once again!

This is my contribution for another lovely day.

I created 2 floral crowns to giveaway (one for Saturday and one for Sunday) to 2 lucky ladies. I also finished a total of 71 business card sets with promo codes, glitter and lace.

Will you be there? If so, come and say hello! I'd love to meet you!

Shop VACATION announcement & a $200 cash giveaway!

It has been a bit crazy in my house since we are in the middle of escrow on our new home! I am SO excited to move into a bigger (& super cozy) space including a larger work room for all of my crafts that make up the Love Sparkle Pretty brand. As of right now, we should be moving Thanksgiving week, if not sooner. In the mean time, lots of packing will be underway as well as setting up and decorating our new home in time for the holidays and my son's 2nd birthday! EEEKKK!

I will be putting the shop on vacay in a few weeks and will reopen early December with new bridal pieces that I am so excited to share including the infamous seashell crown from this photo shoot!! 

I'm not too sure on the exact vacation dates just yet but will keep you posted. 

You can still put in your orders until vacay time. If you have a wedding sometime next year, you can put your orders in now to secure your spots on the order list but they won't be sent out until after reopening of the shop.

Until then, here's a great giveaway to win, especially for those who love spooky stories! I, myself, can't handle the terror of scary-anything-anymore but the cash would be great for holiday shopping! :D

Welcome to the $200 Cash Giveaway!

Sponsored by Michael Phillip Cash.

Seventeen year old Arielle is at a crossroads in her life. Disenchanted with her father, she is testing the boundaries of his trust by dating someone he does not approve.

Under the moonlit sky in Long Island, Arielle and her boyfriend meet beneath the infamous hanging tree. The couple's destiny is rooted to the five spirits in the tree whose lives and deaths are determined by an ancient curse. Will her future be determined by the past or will Arielle's choices alter the course of her life?

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Find out when you read The Hanging Tree by Michael Phillip Cash!

Michael is the best selling author of Stillwell: A Haunting On Long Island and his debut novel, Brood X.

The Hanging Tree is his first novella. To celebrate the release, Michael would like to offer one fan $200 Paypal Cash and signed copies of his books Stillwell, Brood X and a kindle download of The Hanging Tree!

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Enter to win $200 Cash via PayPal as well as signed copies of Stillwell, Brood X and a kindle download of The Hanging Tree

Complete the tasks below to earn entries into this giveaway.

Refer your friends using your unique link at the top of the Rafflecopter for even more chances to win.

One winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries.

Open Worldwide.

Ends at 11:59pm EST on November 3rd, 2013.

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This giveaway was coordinated by Giveaway Promote.

If you're a blogger and would like to participate in a future giveaway event like this one, sign up for Giveaway Promote's weekly giveaway events newsletter.

Coffee Date {friendships, fashion bloggers & branding} + a WINNER!!

Last week, I visited my friend Tara of Laila's Charming Pieces for a coffee date and play date. This week, she came to visit my home to catch up once more.

As soon as she told me she was coming over, I immediately started to brew some Folgers Morning Blend coffee because it's her favorite and when I tried it, it became my favorite as well. With some Peppermint Mocha creamer + Hazelnut creamer, we were set to chat.

What's your favorite coffee + creamer combo?

We talked about our ideas for upcoming items to add to our shops for the fall season including a new headband that we just photographed for Tara's shop. We also talked about the different difficulties we've had with figuring out our target market and branding ideas. 

It takes time and some experience to really understand and "know" your brand. Truth is, it may even change but feeling confident of your work is the first step.

Then, when I saw Tara's customized stamp she had bought for LCP, I told myself that I needed one too! Ha! That's my next shop purchase. ;) 

If you own a handmade shop/business, what difficulties and achievements have you had with branding? Was/is knowing your target market an obstacle? 

We went on to discuss our recent struggles with friendships and the changes that can come so suddenly after a friendship was thought to be so strong. It's funny how much time it can take to build a close relationship with someone but it can all be ruined so quickly. This past month was especially hard on me when it came to letting go of people that were once so near and dear to my heart. I realized that I need to just stop waiting for something that probably won't happen and let just let it be.

Forgiveness was also brought up and how hard it can be to completely forgive and cast unto the Lord. Prayer requests were exchanged and I'm so thankful that I have others to be prayer warriors for as well as for myself.

Have you ever struggled with letting go of friendships/relationships?

The funniest part about today was definitely when Tara was telling me about a recent post by The Life of Bon entitled "how to become a fashion blogger." The topics she named were HILARIOUS! So funny in fact that I had actually spewed some of my coffee out on the table from laughing so hard.

 Some of the things she listed were posing and taking photos in a crowd of people (they will think you are a celeb or model), pop your elbow or your knee (or both)-you'll look "legit" (See Tara below) and stick your head out as far as possible toward the lens-your head my look big but your waist will look oh so tiny. My fav? If all else fails, hide behind a big purse, a plant, or a dog.
Seriously, read this people!

Now, I'm no fashion blogger but I do enjoy reading a few of them. I can totally see how these laughable ideas were given. I don't know how they can style themselves super cute with a pair of heels just about EVERYDAY (I know you aren't really wearing those heels in the snow to run your daily errands) and take photos of themselves. I commend their efforts! It takes creativity and certainly motivation to pick out cute wardrobe all the time.
What are some of your favorite fashion blogs?

Last but not least, last week we posted a giveaway of a pretty beaded bracelet from my shop as well as some adorable crochet hearts handmade by Tara.

The winner has been chosen.
Congrats and Cheers to Courtney of Air Force Wife & Our Life!! 

Have a lovely day friends!

Coffee Date {with a friend} + Giveaway

Today, I'm sharing coffee date with my dear friend Tara of Laila's Charming Pieces. I came over to her house for a visit and a play date with the littles. She instantly welcomed me with open arms and brewed some yummy coffee for us to enjoy (and then had to brew another since the husband drank all of it before we could get to it). 

We decided for this weeks coffee date, we would share our thoughts with you! We love having others over and getting to know some new faces so lets start by pouring a cup of hot coffee (with hazelnut creamer please) and making room on the couch to get cozy on.

This week has been quite busy in the craft room (for both of us actually). Tara put aside a whole day to clean her craft room and I have been trying to play catch up on orders and clean my mess of a room since Tara inspired me to do so. I firmly believe the saying, "creative people are rarely tidy." (cough cough)

Speaking of which, if you were with us, you would be hearing the crash of Jenga pieces right about now. Coffee dates with babies are quite loud.

Onto other news, my husband and I have officially started the house hunting process. Let the competing and patience testing begin! This market is a nightmare for buyers right now. Prayers please!

Prayers also for Tara as she starts a new endeavor with Laila's Charming Pieces and retail. 

Also, I'd have to ask if you've seen The Great Gatsby. I FINALLY saw it (went with the husband) and fell in love! The whole time I was watching it, I craved my sketch book to jot down all of the beautiful ideas that were dancing in my head for events, shoots, pretties, etc. It's a must see for sure!

We may will also talk about motherhood and share our crazy baby stories. From Levi jumping off tables to Laila sending random photos from the phone. Although the babes drive us nuts at times, what's parenting without some good laughs right?

Of course with littles running around, you can't have pictures without them photo bombing. Keeping snacks nearby sustains their happiness. Even if it's only temporary while you try to take photos with a friend. ;)

The last thing we would share on our coffee date with you is our neat little giveaway we prepared as a special THANK YOU for our readers that we love so much!!
Tara has handmade some adorable crochet hearts that you can use to brighten up a room. You can also use them as toppers, favors for a small party, props for a little girls photo shoot or even attach a table number to each and use them in centerpieces!

To add to this great prize, I created a pretty pink and gold bracelet for one lucky winner. With faceted beads on a dainty gold colored chain, get it before it's available in the shop!

Enter below and the winner will be chosen next Friday, the 16th.
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Instagram Arm Candy GIVEAWAY

It's a bit hectic in the craft room today + a dentist appointment + house hunting so I will keep this post short and sweet.
Last night, I posted a giveaway on my Instagram just because and I wanted to share it with all of you as well.
I will be adding pretty little bracelets to the shop soon but before I do, I wanted to give you a chance to win a set!
You could win this pretty little mint and gold combo by following me on Instagram (@lovesparklepretty) and re-posting this photo with #lovesparklepretty. Simple right?
I will be choosing the winner tomorrow around noon. GOOD LUCK my friends!

P.S. I hope everyone is having a great Thursday so far. I feel like the weekend is just creeping up pretty fast. Any plans this weekend?

Summer Lovin' + a $500 GIVEAWAY!!!

So far, I have really enjoyed this summer-which is weird to say because I very much dislike the heat. With trips to my mom's pool, a date night to the Tim McGraw concert, a Laughlin trip this weekend, photo shoots, visits with some good friends and another concert coming up, I can say it's been a pretty amazing season so far. Know what else would make this summer even more amazing (for you anyway)? Winning $500 CASH!! Seriously! I have teamed up with several sweet bloggers to bring you this great giveaway. Think about all of the things you can do with $500 this summer! What are some of the ways you'd spend this great prize? I'd probably put it towards our family Hawaii trip we are saving for next year. The husband will be 30 so what a way to celebrate right? Let me know your ideas in the comments below. :) Good luck my friends!

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Enter to win $500 cash via PayPal.

Complete the tasks below to earn entries into this giveaway.

Refer your friends using your unique link to earn even more chances to win.
One lucky person will win $500 cash.

Open Worldwide.

Ends at 11:59pm EST on August 4th, 2013.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway was coordinated by Giveaway Promote.

If you're a blogger and would like to participate in a future giveaway event like this one, sign up for Giveaway Promote's weekly giveaway events newsletter.

A sweet handmade shop called Edeenut + a GIVEAWAY

A couple months ago, I had the pleasure to "meet" a very talented gal who actually lives in a city that I used to. I saw a link on the Elevate Facebook page for some adorable ruffled pouches made by the shop, Edeenut. I immediately fell in love! I couldn't resist and had to purchase a little zippered pouch to put my business cards and lip gloss in when I attended Elevate back in May.

To my surprise, I also received another cute pouch in my swag bag by the same handmade shop owner. I was ecstatic! Since then, I have gotten to know Edith of Edeenut a little more and asked her to share a bit about herself on my blog.
I am a huge supporter of handmade shops and when I really believe in something, I want to share it with others who will love it as well.
With that said, here is Edith of the sweet little shop-Edeenut.

Tell us a little about yourself (outside of the "sewing/crafting world"). 

I'm a mom of two boys who are silly and wild as can be. I moved to Southern CA after marrying my California native husband, 12 years ago, and couldn't imagine living anywhere else. The weather is perfect for this wimpy Utah girl. 

When did you start sewing and why? 

I actually started sewing when I was young, about 8 years old. My older sisters taught me how to sew as I got older but it never really became a daily thing or desirable thing for me until I was pregnant with my first. I wanted to make him a special baby blessing suit and then after that I kept thinking of fun things to make for him. 

Today, I love sewing because as a mother, I find that the dishes and laundry are never going to be done. Kids are always going to cry and whine. But when I sew a bag or wallet for my shop it is done. It is complete, and I feel like I have accomplished something that day. 

When did Edeenut become a shop and brand?

Edeenut began in 2007 and focused on things for babies. 

I grew up with the nick name Edee (that is a long E sound at the beginning and ending) and I had quickly grown to be crazy and "nuts" for sewing, so the name edeenut stuck! 

Soon after starting edeenut, my second baby had grown out of the baby stage and I realized I was not interested in sewing anymore baby things. So for the next couple years I put edeenut on the back burner. 

I eventually brought it back and it has grown to what it is today- a shop full of soft zipper clutches, sunglass cases, iphone wallets, and mini fabric buntings for parties and special events! And lots more!

Where do you draw your inspiration from?

Inspiration for me comes mostly from fabrics. I love to use prints that may or may not traditionally go together. 

I like to produce items that are functional for every woman to use everyday and items that can be given as a beautiful and functional gift. I draw inspiration from the modern woman and every day mom. I think inside we all want to have stylish accessories but also want them to be functional.

What do you see for Edeenut in the next few years?

For the last little while, I have been struggling as I try to balance my growing work life and my home and family life. If one thrives, the other seems to suffer. Lately, I have been considering my options and how I can incorporate a regular trusted helper. For a recent large order, I was able to use a helper and I realized what a difference it makes! 

My goal for Edeenut is to bring on that trusted helper regularly so I can keep up with the demands in order to continue doing what I love and am "nuts" about which is sewing and designing!

See these cute little fabric buntings? They are perfect for packaging, cute cards, tags, whatever you'd like!
Edith is giving one away to a lucky reader! Enter below and have a beautiful day my friends!

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Paperflora- An interview with a small biz owner + a GIVEAWAY!

Recently, I have had the pleasure to meet a sweet creative artist-Natalie of PaperFlora. She contacted me to sign up for a bridal workshop and when I saw her shop, I was in love! She creates beautiful pieces from clutches to bridal sashes as well as makeup brush rolls and even ring pillows!
I asked her to share a bit about herself because there is such a greater experience when you get to know the person behind the pretty pieces. Speaking of pretty pieces, she wants to give a handmade chevron clutch to one of you lucky readers! Awesome right? I told you she was sweet.
Without further ado, I give you Natalie...

Tell us a little bit about yourself (outside of the crafty world).

I live in sunny California and have for my entire life. I'm blessed to have 2 beautiful grown daughters, 1 great son-in-law, 1 perfect grand daughter and the same loving husband for the past 33 years. 

When did you start being so creative and how did PaperFlora come about?

I have always been the creative type. I love all the needle arts, crocheting, crewel work, embroidery. I started sewing at a young age when my mother taught me to sew on my grandmothers petal Singer sewing machine.  I've made my own clothes, accessories & home decor.

My daughter got married a few years ago. It was an amazing day (http://paperflora2.blogspot.com/2012/03/blog-post.html)!  After planning that event, the wedding bug bit me and I decided to open an Etsy shop and feature personalized wedding accessories. 

Where does your inspiration for new "pretties" come from?

I am always looking at color trends and following the forecasters to see what is coming up. But I have to love it too so a lot of my color combinations are things that please me and hopefully others will find them pretty too. 

What are your favorite colors and prints to work with?

That changes as the seasons change. Right now I'm obsessed with the citrus colors, lemon and grapefruit. I'm working on new line for the shop titled Sweet and Tart which combines the lemony yellows with pink grapefruit and a subtle green. I'm also seeing a lot of pink and teal with a splash of gold. I love that too.

Where do you see PaperFlora in 3 years from now?

I love creating and working with beautiful fabrics, colors and embellishments... I know that will never end. I'm not sure exactly where PaperFlora will take me in future but I'm ready for where ever we go!

Win this super cute gray chevron wristlet with any flower color of your choice (or $30 shop credit-winners choice)!

This wristlet is the perfect size and is a convenient way to carry your essentials. Great for storing your cosmetics, cell phone, camera, keys.....

Made from a home decor cotton, chevron stripe in gray. It is fully lined with a coordinating print, It has a padded interfacing for added strength and closes with a zipper for security.

The wristlet features a detachable wrist strap with a swivel clip which loops around your wrist so you can keep your hands free. It is embellished with a handcrafted fabric flower with a pin back so you can use is on it's own. 

Measurements:
approx across top 10" across the bottom 9.5" height 4" 

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