tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4442175578106346972024-03-13T23:48:04.481-07:00Dainty ButtonDainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-62441091815523190122013-01-03T18:46:00.003-08:002013-01-03T18:46:25.373-08:00Transitional Closing...<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm not sure why I thought I could close a 3 year business down in just a few days, especially right after the Christmas rush and during the post Christmas rush. Wow! If you have been following us, you're somewhat aware that business is closing. I made this announcement in November and since that time I have tried to prepare myself for this but unfortunately it's much easier said or though, than done. I am swamped daily and at times more than once from the same customers about pending orders, post Christmas refunds/exchanges and in a frenzy that they will be forgotten before we close. This is in the middle of us trying to get rid of inventory and tying up all other loose ends. It's very difficult to truly communicate just how busy it gets and when emails are not answered the same day, there is a very good reason. I felt this post was extremely important about the pending closing and what will be transpiring within the next few days and hopefully many questions will be answered. I will be very transparent and honest pertaining many different areas. Here goes...</div>
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Business was supposed to officially close on the 31st of December however that has not been the case. I announced in November that I was closing business because I needed to focus on personal goals in my life. I have been scrambling and trying to get business taken care of before today. Why today? I started a new job today. I gave my new employer a commitment and date that I would be able to start. They have been extremely patient as I've tried tying up loose ends and as they wanted me to begin this new job in December, I was not able to. I'll be honest, I'm extremely stressed at this current time. I have an obligation to my customers to close things on a good note and I also have a commitment and obligation to my new employer. So, now what? </div>
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My intent was to have the "going out of business" sale yesterday and today and then be done with it. Ha! What was I smoking? It's not that easy and 3 years worth of inventory, well it's a process. Here is what I decided to do and I believe everybody will be happy with this resolution. I will be tying up all loose ends between now and January 11th. What loose ends? Refunds/exchanges, pending orders, customer service issues, clearing out inventory, etc. This time allows me to work my new job and still resolve business within a time frame that is realistic. I am not perfect when it comes to customer service and spread very thin, regardless how busy. That being said, I want to make sure I leave on good terms with my customers. I owe you that. I want to make sure orders are complete, refunds/exchanges are taken care of, communication is clear, and all other customer service issues are resolved. </div>
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During this time PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE understand that patience is key. I cannot answer emails right away nor tend to every single issue at the drop of a hat. I am doing my very, very best to meet each and every customers needs in addition to day to day tasks relating to this closeout. It's a very hectic time. No customer will be forgotten or neglected before we close on the 11th. Emails will be answered but maybe not right away. I ask that you please take into consideration and refrain from posting on FB updates or photo's customer service issues. I like to keep these issues via email or PM. </div>
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We have already been posting inventory and there is still MUCH, MUCH more. I will not give a schedule or time as to when these items will post because I'm not very good at keeping to a strict schedule and as my intentions and motives are good in the beginning, I get extremely busy and forget. I will announce via update prior to when items will post to give everybody a heads up. I have yet to go through our entire inventory so I assure you, there is plenty to get rid of. Wahoo! I will be posting daily from now until January 9th.<br />
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Regarding our POP UP SALES...</span></b></div>
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We always get the faithful few that return every sale and I'm really grateful for that. We also get a lot of newcomers every sale and as I do put policies on the invoices, they're not always viewed, so I figured I would reiterate these rules and guidelines.</div>
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Our POP UP SALES have usually taken place every couple weeks, sometimes weekly and always a huge hit, as well as fun. These items are first come first serve. Unless an item is open inventory, it's limited and invoices are issued to the first that comment. Because of this, there is a time window to take care of the invoice which is 12 hours. I have extended it to 24 hours in the past but right now as getting rid of inventory is key, the time window to pay is 12 hours. Currently in this sale ALL items are READY TO SHIP within 24 hours of paying the invoice. That's amazing compared to our normal turnaround. I try to get invoices issued as soon as possible but they're normally not issued until that evening or possibly the next morning if it was an evening sale.<br />
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As of Monday, January 14th, I will continue to sale scarves, pocket squares, and the occasional headbands. This is going to be purely hobby and all items will be already made and ready to ship. I will stock items, list what is available in our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/daintybutton">etsy shop</a> and <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">website</a> at the beginning of the month, promote it on FB and it will be shipped within 24 hours of purchase. Whatever is left over from inventory that month, I will post on FB in a monthly POP UP SALE. I will then repeat this process each month. This is a way to continue offering items to customers and future clientele, while enjoying it as a hobby and staying connected to all of you wonderful fans.<br />
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I will not be handling an customer service issues after January 14th from previous purchases, which is another reason why I've extended dissolving this until the 11th, as I need this time to make sure issues are reconciled.<br />
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Thanks for your time in reading this and I will see you in the next few days as we liquidate more merchandise!<br />
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Charity and DB Team</div>
Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-44560888663440326862012-12-25T16:33:00.001-08:002012-12-25T16:33:18.144-08:00Coming 2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Well, the time has come to bid Dainty Button goodbye. I have tried preparing myself for this since announcing business closing in November but it's still very bittersweet. I've reflected so much on the past 3 years and what I could've done differently but as my momma says "You can't live with regrets, only move forward.", so that's what I'm doing. Moving forward. I've definitely rethought my decision several times but I'm always reminded of why I chose this and I know I'm doing the right thing. As I prepare to complete the closing process, I feel it very necessary to communicate with our followers and clientele as much as possible, which is why I'm posting this blog and will be doing a lot of communicating via social media in the next two weeks. Originally our close date was December 31st, which is still sorta the same date. I say "sorta" because there is a lot more involved in closing a business than just saying "goodbye" and "see ya later." The Christmas holiday rush literally left myself and team exhausted. It was such a great season but very tiring and we did happen to oversell stock which left us in a bit of a pickle in the days leading up to Christmas. A huge thank you to all of our very understanding customers that made that dilemma less stressful. I do have some good news for those DB lovers that are sad to see us go. We are introducing a little spin off of the original Dainty Button, LLC....</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZioVRBDdpM/UNo6Ab9_YOI/AAAAAAAABcc/arD7XihTI5o/s1600/DB+Limited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="357" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jZioVRBDdpM/UNo6Ab9_YOI/AAAAAAAABcc/arD7XihTI5o/s400/DB+Limited.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This will be a collection you can purchase from our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">etsy shop</a> and <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">website</a>. This will be scarves, pocket squares, and occasionally hair accessories. The great thing about this collection is it will be pre-stocked and ready to ship within 24 hours! Amazing, right? This will be a VERY limited collection, hence the new name but it's something I will be able to do as a fun hobby, while still offering merchandise to DB lovers. This collection will be available <b><i>January 7th, 2013</i></b> on both sites. </div>
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Until then...</div>
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I will be tying up loose ends such as customer service issues, last minute shipments, etc. We have already started going through inventory but we'll be completing that process and preparing for our "going out of business" sale. There is still A LOT of inventory that needs to go. This upcoming sale will have all pre-made items, which will ship out within 48 hours. <b>ALL items will be FINAL SALE and non-refundable or exchangeable.</b> We will be handling customer service issues from purchases made December 1st-31st, 2012 up through January 14th, 2013. We <b>WILL NOT</b> be handling any customer service issues or emails after January 14th, 2013. Please keep this in mind. I hope everybody had a wonderful Christmas and is looking forward to the new year! Mark your calendars for our HUGE blowout "going out of business" sale!</div>
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<br />Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-47243063255587199902012-11-28T08:04:00.001-08:002012-11-28T08:04:18.209-08:00Going, going, GONE!<div style="text-align: center;">
I hadn't planned on this day coming until the end of December but with much contemplation and reviewing our record breaking sales over the weekend of black Friday and Cyber Monday, I'm going to have to do something that is a little premature to the dissolving process of Dainty Button.</div>
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For those that are aware of <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> closing the doors of business as of January 1st, 2013 you will be able to relate to this a little more than newcomers. If you're new to DB or just hearing this you can read more info regarding this announcement earlier in November <a href="http://daintybutton.blogspot.com/2012/11/dainty-button-bids-adieu.html">HERE</a>. I had made the decision of closing my etsy shop during December 17-26 to spend the holidays with my family, then reopen on the 26th as we clear out all inventory before the December 31st close. This is still the plan however everything you'll be able to purchase during our "going out of business" sale will be READY TO SHIP. The reason for this is I made the decision to not go into 2013 with any pending transactions and all loose ends tied up, which means that I will need to cut off incoming holiday orders in the very near future to ensure this. My accessories take anywhere from 5-7 BUSINESS days to process and clothing takes up to 21 BUSINESS days to process and with December 17th being the last day we ship to receive by Christmas, I'm already over the deadline for clothing (November 19th) and the accessories portion deadline is quickly approaching. If you include how well we did over the holiday weekend with black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, my team and I will be working around the clock to meet all deadlines. </div>
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I am going to keep items listed in my etsy shop until Thursday, November 29th at 11:59 PM (PST). <b>PLEASE NOTE: This is the last opportunity to purchase inventory FOR THE LAST TIME. </b></div>
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I currently still have the cyber Monday 40% OFF code up in the shop and will remain to keep that there until tomorrow (11/29) so you can enjoy a good bargain for one last time.</div>
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As these next two days will be the last opportunity to purchase Dainty Button on a regular basis, I will remain to offer our infinity scarves throughout December, with the exception of our 12/17-26 close period along with men's pocket squares. I am keeping my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">etsy shop</a> open as well as my <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button website</a> after the first of the year indefinitely for purely the enjoyment of it being a hobby ONLY and a fun way to make extra cash for a rainy day and a means to keep in contact with my social media fans and clientele. I will continue to offer a limited amount of our very popular infinity scarves and pocket squares at POP UP prices. See, I'm not falling of the face of the earth? </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>You can still purchase select items on a limited basis...</b></span></div>
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Although this is bittersweet for me, I'm very excited about my future and the personal goals I'll be pursuing. You can still continue to follow me at facebook.com/daintybutton, @daintybutton on Twitter, and @daintybuttonsf on Instagram where I have some fun plans to stay in contact with everybody after DB closes. As Dainty Button has served the means of being a full time (and a half) job for me the last 3 years, I'm happy to take a backseat, put it on cruise control and enjoy the crafting aspect of it as a fun hobby. </div>
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Make sure you take advantage of purchasing inventory these next two days as they will be the last! And back by popular demand, don't miss this last POP UP SALE before Christmas!</div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-585784366211152392012-11-22T08:29:00.001-08:002012-11-22T08:29:21.003-08:00Black Friday and Cyber Monday<div style="text-align: center;">
I had hoped to get this posted last night but with the hustle bustle of the Thanksgiving holiday I was not. So, hopefully you'll have a moment in between Thanksgiving dinner and leftovers to peruse this blog post if you do happen to participate in the upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. I don't typically blog about POP UP SALES prior to going live with one but this is going to be our biggest and last, so I figured this was as good of time as any to address some issues that do pop up (no pun intended) on our POP UP SALES. You can find details on why this will be our last POP UP SALE <a href="http://daintybutton.blogspot.com/2012/11/what-to-expect-after-december-31st-2012.html">here</a> and more information regarding the closing of <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> <a href="http://daintybutton.blogspot.com/2012/11/dainty-button-bids-adieu.html">here</a>. </div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Most web based businesses participate in Cyber Monday, so why are you doing Black Friday?</span></b></div>
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I have always done a Black Friday sale AND Cyber Monday sale for my customers. I'm not sure why but it works. There's two different crowds usually and the bargains are great. I did however contemplate nixing Black Friday and just combining everything into a Cyber Monday sale but I've been promoting both sales for about a month now and I decided to keep it as is. I am aware that having an online sale on Black Friday while everybody is out fighting for deals is not the smartest thing but there are some that don't enjoy the madness of Black Friday and I also set the sale at a late enough time in the evening that most should be home and relaxing. Or in the ER. </div>
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Our POP UP SALES have always been a great success and have come with few complications however issues do arise and I have to address them. Here's a few that I feel need to be gone over prior to the sale and also a few revisions to the rules.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">POP UP SALES are first come first serve:</span></b></div>
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My POP UP SALES are not an auction sale as the price is already set however the invoice does go to the first that comments. If there's 7 available obviously there's ONLY 7 and I can ONLY issue invoices to the first 7 that comment. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Invoices:</b></span></div>
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<b>Invoices are subject to change:</b></div>
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I have come across this issue a few times and for the most part, customers are pretty understanding however some have not been. My items have always been made to order with the exception of a few items. This includes the POP UP SALES. This will change after December 31st, which is discussed in the blog info given above. I go through inventory, which means that I measure out how many scarves I can offer and provide, pre-cut. Once I start cutting and sewing scarves, there might be blemishes in the material or measurements might not have been exact, which would be subject to the invoice changing. This is not a case of me being dishonest in sales but a simple oversight. I have done my very best to inform customers when this happens and I'll be honest, there's been a few times it's slipped my attention to detail and I've been very good about exchanging the item or issuing a refund if that happens, however I do try to catch this prior to shipping. Please note that invoices are subject to change if we have oversold or there are defects in the material.</div>
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<b>Invoices must be paid within a certain time frame:</b></div>
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I have tried to give ample time for customers to take care of invoices. It used to be 24 hours but on items that have had several comments, it has evolved into a 3-5 day process and slowed things up significantly. I changed the time frame to <b>12 HOURS</b>. I try my best to get invoices issued ASAP but depending on how busy the day is, I may not get around to it right away. I kindly ask that the invoice be paid within the 12 hour time frame given. If the invoices have been issued at night, I do try and give a little extra time considering most are sleeping half of that 12 hours. If you've commented on an item during a POP UP SALE, I encourage you to check your inbox regularly for an invoice to arrive. I do also try and comment on FB when I've distributed invoices.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">**If the sale takes place in the evening, I try and get invoices out the following morning.</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">**If the sale takes place during the day, I try and get the invoices out by the end of the night.</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">***Invoices for the Black Friday POP UP SALE will be issued sometime Saturday, November 24th. There is no set time.</span></b></div>
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<b>Invoices will not be revised upon customer's request, with the exception of it being my error:</b></div>
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This has happened a few times and I made an exception because it was not something that was in the rules and it was the first time it had happened, but I want to cover this prior to this sale because it did create a halt in production. If you are not sure about an item in a POP UP SALE <b>PLEASE</b> do not comment. We issue invoices to those that comment and if you're not sure about it, then the chances are you're not going to take care of the invoice, which means that it's a waste of time for me to distribute an invoice and also PayPal fees accrue. There are several others that want these items and it's not fair to casually comment with no intent of following through. If you're on a budget during a sale, please keep that in mind when you're commenting. I understand that sometimes you're a little surprised upon seeing the "damage", especially when you've commented on several items but to go in and revise invoices because you did not budget correctly or you've changed your mind really does take a lot of extra time. If the invoice consists of errors on my part, I will be more than happy to revise the invoice. <b>Comment with caution.</b></div>
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<b>Shipping is combined:</b></div>
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I'm often asked this question by newcomers to these sales. YES, shipping is combined on multiple items.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">POP UP SALES items are FINAL SALE:</span></b></div>
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I'll be honest, mistakes have happened during these sales. Items have been shipped incorrectly, defects, missing items, etc. The sales are very big and with dozens of invoices coming in and going out, oversights are going to happen. I do try and correct these and prevent them from happening. If I'm responsible for shipping the incorrect item(s), the item is defected, or the item is delayed and it's not been shipped yet, I will issue a refund. However, if you do receive the correct item and there are no defects, there are no refunds issued. These items are at a very great bargain price. If we were to offer refunds and exchanges on a whim, it would be pointless, to be honest with you. If the item is a skirt or other item, exceptions can be made however it is subject to my decision.</div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">About my infinity scarves:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span">My infinity scarves come in different sizes. If you happen to purchase more than one and try and measure them up, chances are they may not be the exact size. This is normal and the nature of handmade items. They're not cookie cutter scarves. Fabric dimensions are different and I do measure scarves on the weight of the fabric. If it's a heavy knit, The scarf will not be as big as more lightweight scarves simply because nobody likes to wear a blanket around their neck. Lightweight scarves are bigger because they're lightweight and nobody likes to wear a string around their neck as a scarf. There's no need to be alarmed if this happens, as it's completely normal for them to be different sizes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Shipping Turnaround:</b></span></div>
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I do include the shipping turnaround in invoices, which is normally 5-7 BUSINESS DAYS (not including holidays/weekends) after the invoice is taken care of. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>What's going to be in the Black Friday SALE?</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>Infinity Scarves (men, women, and children)</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>Miscellaneous READY TO SHIP items that are in stock.</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>What's going to be in the Cyber Monday sale and how is it different than the Black Friday sale?</b></span></div>
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<b>My Cyber Monday sale is on my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">etsy shop</a> and <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">website</a> on Cyber Monday, which falls on November 26th this year. The sale will go live at 8 AM (PST) and last until 11:59 PM (PST). I will provide a coupon code via social media and also on my website and etsy shop announcement. This coupon code is applied at checkout. This year we are providing 40%-60% OFF items and FREE SHIPPING. This does include items that you would not find in a POP UP SALE, such as our current Fall Collection, headbands, bow ties, little girls leggings, etc. </b></div>
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<b>Clothing (women and children's) is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">NOT GUARANTEED</span> to arrive by Christmas as our Christmas deadline was November 19th. Accessories (headbands, scarves, bow ties, pocket squares, shoe clips, etc.) <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">WILL BE GUARANTEED</span> to arrive by Christmas. We will do our very best to try and get items out in time to receive by Christmas but again, it's not guaranteed as I am short staffed, my production manager will be going out of the country for the holiday season and I currently have a lot to tie up before my December 31st closing. </b></div>
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<b><i>I hope I have communicated details with you as clearly as possible. I'm very excited about these two sales as we have some great items to offer at bargain prices. The rest of the holiday season is a great time to stay close to our etsy shop, website and social media outlets, as I'm clearing out all inventory, including fabric. My heart is so full with how wonderful my customers have been the last 3 years. This truly has been the adventure of a lifetime and I'm so blessed. I pray you and yours has a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. God bless you!</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Charity</i></b></div>
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<b><i>xoxo</i></b></div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-47523758865335587602012-11-20T15:18:00.000-08:002012-11-20T15:18:34.494-08:00What to expect after December 31st, 2012.<div style="text-align: center;">
I feel like I've addressed this a million times since I announced I would be closing my business but I feel it necessary to mention again and knowing I have a concrete plan on my future, I can let my customers and fans know what you can expect after December 31st, 2012.</div>
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I love crafting and always have. I will continue crafting and offering it to my customers and fans on a very limited basis. I can't say that I'm hanging up my hat where crafting is concerned but the business aspect, I am. My POP UP SALES have been a HUGE success and a lot of fun for customers since I started them in April, however they are a bit more time consuming than I'd like. Here is what I have decided to do which I believe will be beneficial to both parties, as I can enjoy it as a hobby and you can enjoy the fruits of my hobby. I'm dedicating one weekend a month to produce a month's supply of infinity scarves for men, women, and children and list them in my etsy shop. I will promote these via social media at the same price as POP UP prices. The advantage you will have purchasing from etsy versus a POP UP SALE are these:</div>
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1. Your purchase is guaranteed, secure, and you can track it.</div>
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2. There is no fighting over an item. You simply click, purchase, and it ships.</div>
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3. The turnaround will be much quicker.</div>
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4. You're getting the item for the same price as a POP UP SALE.</div>
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5. You don't have to stay glued to the computer waiting for the item to list, antsy to be the first to comment.</div>
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This is much easier for me as well, considering it takes a lot of time to issue invoices, some customers don't pay their invoices, which means new invoices must be reissued and that involves more time. Also, I have been known to accidentally overlook an invoice because of the very high volume of sales that come through during the POP UP SALES and it essentially leads to even more problems. Just trying to make us all happy at the end of the day. The great part about this is I will already produce what is listed and they will ship within 24 hours. How awesome is that? </div>
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In the meantime, there is roughly 6 weeks to purchase what is currently listed in my etsy shop and on the website. Also, we have three large sales approaching quickly that you don't want to miss!</div>
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Until next time!</div>
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Charity</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-25988400829724792392012-11-11T06:41:00.000-08:002012-11-11T06:44:47.009-08:00The Million $ Question: Will I ever be able to buy Dainty Button Again?<div style="text-align: center;">
If you're reading this blog and have no idea what I'm talking about, chances are you did not read <a href="http://daintybutton.blogspot.com/2012/11/dainty-button-bids-adieu.html?showComment=1352642346892#c8373578375872495990">this blog</a>. As of January 1st, 2013, we are closing our doors of business. This was a very hard decision to make but one that was very much needed, as I'm taking time to pursue personal goals in my life and start a new chapter. A new chapter where, unfortunately, my little business will not be able to be a character. A few questions I've received pertaining the closing of the business that I wanted to cover.</div>
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<b>Will I ever be able to buy Dainty Button again?</b></div>
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Yes and no. I'm dissolving the LLC aspect of Dainty Button where it runs as a fully functional California licensed business, <b>HOWEVER, </b>you will not be able to purchase on a regular basis and <b>ONLY SELECT ITEMS.</b> Here are possible times you can purchase, but not guaranteed. Times I will offer small select items will entirely depend upon my schedule and what I have time for.</div>
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1. My etsy shop will be open the first weekend of the month to purchase small, select items, <b>HOWEVER</b>, it will be a limited supply of inventory.</div>
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2. I will have a FB POP UP SALE occasionally. This allows me to still enjoy the crafting aspect of it, not tie myself down to working 12-14 hours a day, the stressful burden of being married to a business, while still offering others my talents.</div>
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4. Occasional seasonal times (but not guaranteed).</div>
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3. Occasionally at conferences/markets when time permits.</div>
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<b>What will happen to social media? Facebook? Twitter? Instagram?</b></div>
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We're not going anywhere. We will obtain the name <b>Dainty Button</b> as this was the name before it became an official LLC business in 2010. I'm keeping all social media outlets live and active for the following purposes.</div>
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1. Blogging, DIY's, social interaction with fans and clientele, etc.</div>
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2. POP UP SALES</div>
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I started Dainty Button off as a means to extra cash and for the pure enjoyment of an outlet to exercise my crafting talents. That's it. I still want to offer these items to fans and clientele but unfortunately I cannot offer these on a full time basis, not even part time basis, which is why I will offer select items occasionally, mentioned above. </div>
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<b>PLEASE NOTE: </b>The only items I will offer as mentioned above will be accessory items, <b>NOT </b>clothing. </div>
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<b>The advantage of this...</b></div>
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Because I will only be offering items occasionally, ALL ITEMS will be <b>READY TO SHIP</b> and no longer <b>MADE TO ORDER. </b>Items will be shipped within 48 hours of purchase! Now, that's something to be happy about!</div>
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I hope questions were answered and although this is very bittersweet, I'm very excited about the future! I would take advantage between now and January 1st to stock up as you will not be able to after the first of the year. Here are events that you might find to your liking...</div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-86081962297802395942012-11-08T07:24:00.004-08:002012-11-08T07:24:47.901-08:00Dainty Button Bids Adieu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I thought that if this day ever came I wouldn't be able to face it with a strong mindset, but surprisingly I am rather calm and have full confidence in what I'm about to write. I'm not sure how these sort of things are supposed to be properly approached but I do know I owe my customers, social media fans, friends, and family the proper Dainty Button farewell. </div>
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I started Dainty Button as a hobby almost 3 years ago. I think most of you know this story but if you don't, here's the short version, it took off and became what I call my accidental business. The past 3 years have been the most adventurous, stressful, overwhelming, exciting, achieving, and wonderful 3 years of my life. If you've ever or currently own your own business, you can fully relate to this. The time, tears, frustration, money, and sacrifice that I have invested into this business would blow your mind. I have lived for my company for 3 years and that is why I must bid adieu. I have not lived for myself, but my business. My life has revolved around my business. Vacations have been put off, quality time spent with family and friends has been scarce, and the hours of sleep I have lost, well, I'm too ashamed to even tell people. Why not hire help? I have and currently do have help, however that does not stop me from putting in more hours. My average day consists of 12-14 hour days. There comes a point when a chapter ends in one's life and it's time for a new one and that time has come for me.</div>
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When I made DB a legalized LLC I gave it to God. I told God that DB was His and if He ever wanted it back, it was His. Needless did I know that He would hold me to that promise. I have neglected so many important areas of my life the past 3 years. I have prolonged finishing my degree, slacked off on many other areas, my children's book has been delayed a year, which will finally be published next month, have had health issues, and spread myself so very thin, I have found myself on the floor bawling my eyes out, so exhausted, I can't even think straight...on numerous occasions. Important things have slipped through the cracks and I feel like I'm letting others down, including myself. God is not happy with that and I don't deserve to live a life that completely drains me.</div>
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I love what I do and God sometimes asks for the biggest part of your life, to see if you will sacrifice it. I have been tossing this decision around for weeks, if not months, and finding myself over the weekend, once again, on the floor of my sewing room, so exhausted and spent, sobbing, I asked God what I should do. I am not one to say "God spoke to me" but I knew in my heart that He was asking for something that I have held so very close to my heart and it has become my identity, world, and the center of my focus. I have fought this for some time, but when God wants something He doesn't give up easily. This past weekend was my moment of brokenness and finally giving Him what He's been asking for and since then I have had such peace and reassurance with my decision. I cannot justify the time I've spent investing into my company because it far outweighs the time I've spent with family/friends, my church obligations and commitments, personal well being, and ultimately my Heavenly Father. In the process of building my own business, I have forgotten about myself. I gave something that God had blessed me with back to Him and I must now follow through with that promise. </div>
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As of January 1st, 2013 I will be dissolving the official LLC of Dainty Button. I will be taking this time to pursue personal goals in my life. All of this broken down...</div>
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<b>1.</b> <b>I will offer certain items twice a month via social media, where customers can purchase, such as our popular POP UP SALES.</b></div>
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<b>2. Customers will occasionally be able to purchase merchandise at various conferences and crafting events. </b></div>
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<b>3. I will still offer my craftsmanship talents but purely as hobby and not as a business on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">etsy</a> the first weekend of the month, in the form of small accessories.</b></div>
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<b>4. Dainty Button will remain on social media to interact with fans, blogging purposes, and connect with other crafters, while retaining it's given name for identity purposes.</b> </div>
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<b>5. Dainty Button, LLC will remain a full time business through the holiday season where you can currently purchase at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">Dainty Button Etsy</a> and <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button Website</a>. These sites will remain open until January 1st, 2013.</b></div>
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If you have not had a chance to purchase from Dainty Button or currently consider yourself a customer, I would take advantage of the next 6 weeks to purchase, as I will only offer items in the above mentioned format as of January 1st, 2013.</div>
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I cannot express the gratitude for the amazing support that customers have shown me the past 3 years. Customer service is never an easy field and trust me, I have had some very horrible experiences, but the good far outweighs the bad and it's been an honor to work with such amazing customers. If you've purchased from Dainty Button, thank you. That's all I can say, is thank you. I will be around, so you've not seen or heard the last of me and you will have opportunities in the future to purchase select items as mentioned above. So, let's not say "goodbye" but rather "I'll see you later." Let's have a wonderful holiday season and go out with a bang! </div>
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Charity Morgan</div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-5650849344260065362012-10-10T09:48:00.000-07:002012-10-10T09:50:18.061-07:00Fall '12<div style="text-align: center;">
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Fall '12 is here! We released our fall season collection today, well the beginning stages of it. Did you know that it takes an average of about 8-9 hours to upload, list, and load shopping carts in our etsy shop and on our website when we launch a new collection? So, you can imagine what I've been doing all day. I'm very excited about this collection. It's different, there's a lot of new items, and we've ventured into something that I said I would never venture into...children's clothes. It's crazy to think that almost 3 years ago I started off Dainty Button off with accessories, mainly headbands, and now it's a complete clothing line. There are various different reasons as to why I've avoided this step for so long. One, it's A LOT of work but at the end of the day, it's rewarding. This collection has simple pieces but we're taking baby steps here and maybe by next spring we'll have ventured off into more exciting chapters.</div>
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I've gotten a little bit of a late start on the collection this year but better late than never, right? I scheduled our photo shoot a couple months ago for mid-September with the genius of photographers again, Sam Hassas. He did our Spring '12 commercial shoot and it went over wonderfully. A week before our photo shoot, I dislocated my ribs, which caused my back to go out. I've never had back problems before in my entire life, so this was all new to me. I seriously don't know how people live day to day with consistent back problems. It was scary, painful, and so annoying. I'm always on the go and this was such an inconvenience. I really don't know how to take it slow. I had almost 15 models ready for our Fall '12 shoot and because the doctor ordered me to take it easy and rest I had to reschedule the week of. Sam Hassas is not a photographer that has many openings. He's in high demand and I knew I had blown my chances of him doing our fall shoot. I was wrong! He had an opening the following Saturday, which enabled me to recover those extra few days. I'm still not fully recovered but I'm much better. I went from almost 15 models to 5 models for this shoot due to the rescheduling. I was a little nervous about it because this was a large collection and I was afraid we'd be spread very thin. I was so wrong. </div>
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I didn't put as much planning into this shoot as I did our Spring one. I was scrambling, rushing, and very off. My best friend from Texas came in for the spring shoot and we were so prepared. I literally threw every piece of clothing, accessory, and shoes that resembled fall in a huge suitcase and headed to location. I wasn't feeling too well and because of my back/rib mishap it had put me behind almost 2 weeks on everything. I had 2 adult models and 3 children. Our location couldn't have been more perfect, except it was in the 90's, the models were modeling very heavy fall pieces, the majority of the group were children under 7. They were absolute angels. The shoot could not have gone more smooth and without any hiccups. It was relaxed, fun, but very hot. </div>
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Our location was literally in the middle of nowhere. There was a condemned barn which you'll see in many of the shots. The kids loved the barn and Sam had them believing there were whales in the creek, where they also took photos. </div>
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We had intentions of using a tent we brought along for our dressing room and a place to relax during different scenes but it was the mother of all camping tents to put up, so we set up a dressing room in my sisters SUV, as well as other cars and used my car as the closet and vanity area. We had shoes lined up on the side of the road.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--d1Qc0DpskI/UHUTQLD4GeI/AAAAAAAABKc/l1iFn37U5iI/s1600/391769_10151076045052175_906618885_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--d1Qc0DpskI/UHUTQLD4GeI/AAAAAAAABKc/l1iFn37U5iI/s320/391769_10151076045052175_906618885_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Meet Mehgan and Mikayla, our two adult models who are very good family friends. I couldn't have been blessed with better models. This shoot and collection was very different from our spring. They brought a very different dynamic to the entire collection, which I'm thrilled about. They were fun, professional, and natural at it. Such a fun time!</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D0Gz9FrUMP4/UHUS2zLAb1I/AAAAAAAABKM/SJZUMlyqXio/s1600/26661_10151076043012175_1764631728_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D0Gz9FrUMP4/UHUS2zLAb1I/AAAAAAAABKM/SJZUMlyqXio/s320/26661_10151076043012175_1764631728_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Fall 2012</b></span></div>
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What have we added this season? A LOT! We're launching our full children's collection, cardigans, and dresses! </div>
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Here is a small gallery of our Fall '12 collection, which we have selected some feature items and you can now purchase in our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">etsy shop</a>. You can find the collection on our website at the end of this week, as well. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Dainty Button Children's Fall '12</b></span></div>
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<b>Bow Ties</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111711222/color-plaid-bow-tie">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LDaAjwJzh3I/UHUY0kZ0ZLI/AAAAAAAABL0/jhsxdB3e710/s1600/storyboardcomp001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LDaAjwJzh3I/UHUY0kZ0ZLI/AAAAAAAABL0/jhsxdB3e710/s400/storyboardcomp001.jpg" width="279" /></a></div>
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<b>Reindeer Dress</b></div>
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<b>Furry Shrug</b></div>
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<b>Christmas Plaid Bow Tie</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111716984/reindeer-dress-nb-to-5t">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4YyKj3CaLmo/UHUaEhokPgI/AAAAAAAABME/Ju9-YhvS9iw/s1600/Liam+and+Zoe+Christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4YyKj3CaLmo/UHUaEhokPgI/AAAAAAAABME/Ju9-YhvS9iw/s400/Liam+and+Zoe+Christmas.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
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<b>Elf Leggings</b></div>
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<b>Taupe Shimmer Infinity Scarf</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111714787/elf-leggings-christmas-nb-to-girls-xl">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TfEZfXgrkOo/UHUa4oxf7VI/AAAAAAAABMM/HV7tEc60cAE/s1600/Elf+Leggings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TfEZfXgrkOo/UHUa4oxf7VI/AAAAAAAABMM/HV7tEc60cAE/s400/Elf+Leggings.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
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<b>Splash of Autumn Dress and Legging Set</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111719280/splash-of-autumn-dress-and-legging-set">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V3nF3FmmELs/UHVyReNkvUI/AAAAAAAABNA/SScY3Vv3giw/s1600/Bright+Floral+Zoe+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V3nF3FmmELs/UHVyReNkvUI/AAAAAAAABNA/SScY3Vv3giw/s400/Bright+Floral+Zoe+.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Grey Cobweb Dress</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111752777/grey-cobweb-dress-nb-to-24m">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vx4nO4XK3Y/UHVzuRwcjGI/AAAAAAAABNI/vwU5pL17lZQ/s1600/Grey+Dress:Zoe+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Vx4nO4XK3Y/UHVzuRwcjGI/AAAAAAAABNI/vwU5pL17lZQ/s400/Grey+Dress:Zoe+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSr6ap7FQYc/UHVz1kR9RuI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Wp72xYwCviQ/s1600/Grey+Dress:Zoe-Liam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BSr6ap7FQYc/UHVz1kR9RuI/AAAAAAAABNQ/Wp72xYwCviQ/s400/Grey+Dress:Zoe-Liam.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Cocoa Ruffle Leg Warmers/Boot Socks</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111715668/cocoa-ruffle-leg-warmers-boot-socks-2t">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PleASc5Gzdw/UHV2UL9jB9I/AAAAAAAABNc/chHE-08j7hw/s1600/Tan+Ruffle+Leg+Warmers:Katlyn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PleASc5Gzdw/UHV2UL9jB9I/AAAAAAAABNc/chHE-08j7hw/s400/Tan+Ruffle+Leg+Warmers:Katlyn.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Katy Bug Leggings</b></div>
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<b>Taupe Shimmer Infinity Scarf</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111713210/katy-bug-leggings-nb-to-girls-size-xlhttps://www.etsy.com/listing/111713210/katy-bug-leggings-nb-to-girls-size-xl">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AJ0nNtVJxUU/UHV29eUEPXI/AAAAAAAABNw/HR1-uI4Pr9w/s1600/Crazy+Leggings:Katlyn+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AJ0nNtVJxUU/UHV29eUEPXI/AAAAAAAABNw/HR1-uI4Pr9w/s400/Crazy+Leggings:Katlyn+1.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
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<b>Sugar Plum Dress and Boot Socks</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111721008/sugar-plum-dress-2t-to-5t">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PpNH4MvJqIs/UHV3zfKnA3I/AAAAAAAABN4/ypVuHVZk75s/s1600/60120_10151097405377175_1873945271_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PpNH4MvJqIs/UHV3zfKnA3I/AAAAAAAABN4/ypVuHVZk75s/s400/60120_10151097405377175_1873945271_n.jpg" width="173" /></a></div>
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<b>Santa's Little Helper Ruffle Leggings</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111708825/santas-helper-christmas-ruffle-leggings?ref=v1_other_1">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AWoyCvqHbc/UHV4WhVeSMI/AAAAAAAABOA/UQaSDGf-eQk/s1600/486973_10151097425667175_330755675_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AWoyCvqHbc/UHV4WhVeSMI/AAAAAAAABOA/UQaSDGf-eQk/s320/486973_10151097425667175_330755675_n.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
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<b>Leopard Dress and Furry Shrug Set</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111720069/leopard-dress-and-furry-vest-set-2t-to">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z_ZurPj2fpM/UHV4_4nmb_I/AAAAAAAABOI/E0BT_DMG074/s1600/il_570xN.383325217_qnru.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z_ZurPj2fpM/UHV4_4nmb_I/AAAAAAAABOI/E0BT_DMG074/s400/il_570xN.383325217_qnru.jpg" width="297" /></a></div>
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<b>Funky Fusion Purple Shimmer Dress and Furry Vest Set</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111754396/funky-fusion-purple-shimmer-dress-and">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dpks7DjbRWM/UHV9uqShVhI/AAAAAAAABO8/851k2EMnsis/s1600/536552_10151097433692175_260357016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dpks7DjbRWM/UHV9uqShVhI/AAAAAAAABO8/851k2EMnsis/s400/536552_10151097433692175_260357016_n.jpg" width="295" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Women's Fall '12</b></span></div>
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<b>The Fall Knit Maxi Turtleneck Dress</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111756837/the-fall-maxi-turtleneck-dress-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f_ZAeMuT7U8/UHWEz08w-MI/AAAAAAAABPw/_SlFywMsaMg/s1600/Knit+Dress:Mikayla+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f_ZAeMuT7U8/UHWEz08w-MI/AAAAAAAABPw/_SlFywMsaMg/s400/Knit+Dress:Mikayla+1.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
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<b>You can also purchase this dress with our matching Plum Crochet Vest Dress</b></div>
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<b>This can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111757806/plum-crochet-dress-vest-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdNRa7Hke3o/UHWFBHyI2II/AAAAAAAABP4/PI5nnqe38Pk/s1600/602273_10151098238707175_191167334_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NdNRa7Hke3o/UHWFBHyI2II/AAAAAAAABP4/PI5nnqe38Pk/s400/602273_10151098238707175_191167334_n.jpg" width="398" /></a></div>
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<b>Ribbon Knit Skirt</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111759315/ribbon-knit-skirt-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTJtW5bM-iM/UHWLKgSnv1I/AAAAAAAABQs/r8Bx1HerZpE/s1600/Ribbon+Knit:Meh-SB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JTJtW5bM-iM/UHWLKgSnv1I/AAAAAAAABQs/r8Bx1HerZpE/s400/Ribbon+Knit:Meh-SB.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-driOIjh5Lpc/UHWLb-iMNwI/AAAAAAAABQ0/ZnLqeAOzKnw/s1600/Ribbon+Knit:Meh+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-driOIjh5Lpc/UHWLb-iMNwI/AAAAAAAABQ0/ZnLqeAOzKnw/s400/Ribbon+Knit:Meh+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Tweed Peplum Skirt</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111760474/tweed-peplum-skirt-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UraGAyzsqvY/UHWOKGcaLNI/AAAAAAAABR0/c6iRE1kQbNc/s1600/Peplan+Skirt:Polka+Dot:Meh-Mik+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UraGAyzsqvY/UHWOKGcaLNI/AAAAAAAABR0/c6iRE1kQbNc/s400/Peplan+Skirt:Polka+Dot:Meh-Mik+3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hV55GGG_Exo/UHWORXIn1NI/AAAAAAAABR8/yP3OsubfNxY/s1600/Peplan+Skirt:Meh+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hV55GGG_Exo/UHWORXIn1NI/AAAAAAAABR8/yP3OsubfNxY/s400/Peplan+Skirt:Meh+3.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
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<b>Polka Dot Knit Skirt and Zig Zag Cardigan</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111761254/lime-green-polka-dot-knit-skirt-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEoq1d0lVLo/UHWP97yPrtI/AAAAAAAABSE/gIZMR_f3pn0/s1600/Peplan+Skirt:Polka+Dot:Meh-Mik+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XEoq1d0lVLo/UHWP97yPrtI/AAAAAAAABSE/gIZMR_f3pn0/s400/Peplan+Skirt:Polka+Dot:Meh-Mik+1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8A7Z96ICETk/UHWQHAMdCkI/AAAAAAAABSY/U10mmDSZHNA/s1600/Peplan:Polka+Dot:Meh-Mik+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8A7Z96ICETk/UHWQHAMdCkI/AAAAAAAABSY/U10mmDSZHNA/s400/Peplan:Polka+Dot:Meh-Mik+4.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
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<b>Burst of Autumn Knit Skirt</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111768681/burst-of-autumn-knit-skirt-1x-to-3x">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AbXUY3DjMC4/UHUZF0HGBZI/AAAAAAAABL8/osHiPY6am0c/s1600/storyboard015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AbXUY3DjMC4/UHUZF0HGBZI/AAAAAAAABL8/osHiPY6am0c/s400/storyboard015.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Arizona Winter Sweater Skirt</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111763203/arizona-sweater-skirt-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/---UnsIKr5FM/UHWWwO2y_wI/AAAAAAAABTM/3CkRAcvQjHo/s1600/Sweater+Skirt:Mik+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/---UnsIKr5FM/UHWWwO2y_wI/AAAAAAAABTM/3CkRAcvQjHo/s400/Sweater+Skirt:Mik+4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Red Plaid Short and Maxi</b></div>
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<b>Can be purchased <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/111764288/red-mad-plaid-short-skirt-xs-to-l">here</a></b></div>
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I hope you've enjoyed some of our featured items from our newly launched Fall '12 line. To see the rest of our collection, please visit <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">our etsy shop</a>. </div>
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Until next time!</div>
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Charity and DB Team!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-piL3QY7RQSc/UHWmWX1YoWI/AAAAAAAABUY/8l3pG8cDBM0/s1600/Goodbye:Meh-Mik.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-piL3QY7RQSc/UHWmWX1YoWI/AAAAAAAABUY/8l3pG8cDBM0/s400/Goodbye:Meh-Mik.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-18913388237479954022012-09-20T12:59:00.000-07:002012-09-20T12:59:48.728-07:00PIN IT WARS!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We haven't done a giveaway in awhile and I wanted to do something a little different than the typical sharing a photo and commenting. Pinterest has taken over our lives and what better place to host this next giveaway and contest, right? This will be very simple and since most of you are already on Pinterest, fun as well. </div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Rules and Guidelines:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>To Participate:</b></span></div>
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<b><i>1. You must be on Pinterest</i></b></div>
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<b><i>2. Find us on Pinterest by searching "Dainty Button" or "daintybutton@yahoo.com" and follow us.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>The <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">PIN IT WARS</span> contest/giveaway will begin on Friday, September 21st and end on Friday, September 28th at 11:59 PM (PST). Beginning on Friday, September 21st, we will PIN one of our favorite items to our pin board and announce this on our FB wall, with a link. We will post a favorite PIN every day during this contest. </i></b></div>
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<b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Your participation...</span></i></b></div>
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<b><i>1. A Repin = 1 ENTRY </i></b></div>
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<b><i>2. Repin and a FB comment <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"PINNED IT" WITH YOUR PINTEREST USERNAME</span> </span>on the Pinterest link we post each day = 2 ENTRIES </i></b></div>
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<b><i>1. Only one repin and comment will be accounted for daily, HOWEVER you are more than welcome to repin as many times as you'd like : )</i></b></div>
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<b><i>2. The contest winner MUST notify us within 24 hours via email (daintybutton@yahoo.com) to redeem their giveaway.</i></b></div>
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<b><i>3. The giveaway of choice will not be shipped until 21 BUSINESS days after redeemed.</i></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">How is a winner determined?</span></b></div>
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<b><i>We will accumulate the total number of PINS and comments at the end of the contest and draw a random winner via <a href="http://www.random.org/">random.org</a>.</i></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>What is the giveaway?</b></span></div>
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<b>The giveaway of choice will be a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">$150 SHOPPING SPREE </span>redeemable in our <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/daintybutton">ETSY SHOP</a> or at <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">daintybutton.com</a>.</b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Now, who's ready for WAR?</b></span></div>
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<b>Charity and DB Team!</b></div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-51598333483391036942012-09-03T08:29:00.000-07:002012-09-03T08:29:08.201-07:00FB Auction and POP UP SALE - Labor Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good morning and Happy Labor Day! Can you believe it's technically the last "summer" holiday and we're already in September? If you've been following us on FB or Twitter, I'm sure you've seen something about the POP UP SALE and FB auction we're kicking off today, in honor of Labor Day and it being our last summer sale, so to speak. I don't think we've ever covered a blog post about our POP UP SALES, so here is a good time to do it, while we're covering our FB auction.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>POP UP SALES</b></span></div>
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We did our first POP UP SALE in April of this year, I believe. I never intended for the sales to become a weekly or bi-weekly event but it has evolved to just that. <b>What is a POP UP SALE?</b> A POP UP SALE is a FB exclusive sale for our FB followers, allowing them the chance to get items at extremely discounted prices. Sometimes we announce POP UP SALES, other times we don't and surprise followers. We post the pictures directly onto the FB wall, what the item is, what size (if clothing), how many we have in quantity, the price and shipping, then prompt followers to leave their email address. If there's 5 available, we'll send invoices to the first 5 that comment and so on. We give a <b>12 hour</b> time window to have these invoices paid. For the most part most of the invoices sent are paid but there are those few that are ignored. We do try and stick to a tight <b>12 hour </b>window but if you do contact us and let us know, we're usually good to keep the invoice open. A few other things to know about POP UP SALES...</div>
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1. If you comment on several items, we do our very best to combine shipping.</div>
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2. Items are normally not shipped from POP UP SALES until <b>5-7 business days </b>after invoice is taken care of. We do our very best to include this info in the invoice but sometimes it's overlooked as we are distributing invoices very quickly.</div>
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3. Over the span of 5 months of doing these sales we have had situations where items were missing and invoices were overlooked. This is not intentional or us "scamming" you, as one customer recently told us. Ha! Sometimes, you just have to laugh. Please keep in mind that we are using a PayPal system, where there is no third party database, that's helping us manage orders, as our etsy shop or website allows. FB is basically our "online store" during this sale and when there are at times, well over 100 women commenting different items, it's extremely easy for us to overlook a comment. Again, we do our very best but mistakes do happen. <b>I paid my invoice but never got my item. </b>Once customers pay their invoices, our production team prints out all of the invoices from that sale. We try to print these invoices out after all of the invoices are paid but a lot of times production is wanting to start on it, as there is a 12 hour time window and if one item has been reissued a couple times, it could prolong the shipping status of others, and they start printing. If your invoice is not taken care of at this point, it's not printed. If it has been taken care of, again, it's extremely easy to overlook printing an invoice, which is why there have been occurrences where items have been paid but not shipped. It's simply an oversight on our part and we do our best to right it ASAP. </div>
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4. <b>Quantity control and oversells: </b>Before a POP UP SALE commences, we go through our inventory and see what we're wanting to get rid of or sale, count the quantity (keep in mind we're counting fabric and how many production can get out of what we have in fabric inventory), which is where we normally put the quantity on the post. There are times when oversells occur, which means there are too many comments and not enough to go around. When this happens, if we're able to obtain more fabric in inventory, we'll email the customers and let them know or offer a refund. We try to avoid this but it does happen every once in awhile.</div>
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<b>5. POP UP SALE items are FINAL SALE.</b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>FB Auction SALE</b></span></div>
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I've seen online auctions and always thought they were really neat but honestly never thought of doing one. One of my very dear friends suggested we do an online FB auction when I told her we were in the works of doing an "end of the summer" type sale. Her theory was "So many of us want items during your POP UP SALES but because we log on to FB way after you've posted, we don't even stand a chance. A lot of these items, I want so bad and other women do too, why not have an auction and let us outbid each other. If I really want an item, I'm going to fight for it. Ha!" So, today we're kicking off our very first FB online auction, which I'm very excited about. We will have <b>two FB albums </b>on our page, one that's POP UP SALE and the other that's Auction Sale. <b>What's the difference in the POP UP SALE and Auction Sale? </b>Our POP UP SALE will have items in quantities over 1, which makes auctions pointless. Our auction sale will have items that are one of a kind and we're also including some fall items that you'll see at full retail in our etsy shop and website in the coming week or so. We will post the starting bid, ask you to leave your bid. The auction will end tonight, September 3rd, at 11:59 PM (PST). Once the auction has ended, we will close the post out by asking the highest bidder to comment with their email address, where we can email an invoice. Again, we will use our <b>12 hour </b>window to pay the invoice, otherwise it will be redistributed to the next highest bidder. </div>
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Now, I'm off to finish preparing for this fun sale today! I hope to see you there!</div>
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Charity and DB Team!</div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-65046447300628579862012-08-20T14:25:00.001-07:002012-08-20T14:25:05.642-07:00Support Mary Jane <div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESbX7Y9tCE0/UDKqjxD7-ZI/AAAAAAAABHI/TIfFJwyjsrU/s1600/MJ+Fund+Poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESbX7Y9tCE0/UDKqjxD7-ZI/AAAAAAAABHI/TIfFJwyjsrU/s400/MJ+Fund+Poster.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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I hate cancer. I hate everything it represents...the heartache, hurt, pain, depression, fear. I have lost some very dear people to cancer, as I'm sure many of you reading this can say the same. This blog post is dedicated to my best friend and her family. Jana lives in Houston, Texas and married a good friend of mine from California. A few weeks ago, her mother-in-law, Mary Jane, was diagnosed with stage 4 breast cancer. Jana is the young mother of two wonderful children and has spent the last 6 weeks here in California caring for her mother-in-law, as she begins chemo. I have heard the heartache and sadness in Jana's voice as she speaks of this and not to mention the toll it's taken on their family and friends. Along with cancer comes unexpected expenses, which is where I'm hoping I can play a part. <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button </a> has designed a special infinity scarf in pink to support Mary Jane. </div>
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This special LIMITED EDITION infinity scarf, which we have appropriately dubbed The Mary Jane, retails at $7 (plus shipping). Half of the proceeds will be going to a "Support Mary Jane" fund. There is a link at the top left corner of our blog to donate any specific amount, if you choose to do so. I'm rallying our customers, fans, friends, and family to support Mary Jane in spirit, prayers, and financially. Everybody needs someone in the bleachers cheering them on and I know Mary Jane and her family can use all of the support, prayers, and cheerleading they can get during this difficult time. Who's in? </div>
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To purchase The Mary Jane Infinity Scarf directly from our etsy shop, please click <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/107351550/the-mary-jane-infinity-breast-cancer">here</a>. We appreciate all of the support we receive and please keep Mary Jane and her family in your prayers! Let's help fight this for Mary Jane!<br />
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Charity and DB Team<br />
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Mary Jane and Jim Campbell posing with her "new hair".<br />
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Jana (my best friend), Jim, and Mary Jane.</div>
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Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-47167796535692406852012-08-18T09:41:00.000-07:002012-08-22T08:54:47.954-07:00Hosting a Trunk Show<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fall and the holiday season will be here before you know it and we at <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> are preparing for the rush. During the holidays we do a lot of craft fairs and trunk shows, which make it fun because there's nothing more that I love than the holidays, mix in a little shopping and it's close to perfection. We attempted to do this endeavor a long time ago and received many inquiries but due to crazy schedules, we were not able to follow through with it. But now, we're thinking this is a great opportunity for us AND YOU! A wonderful customer of ours emailed me awhile back and suggested this and then it jogged my memory of what we had attempted to do a long time ago and I've not been able to get it off the brain. We'd like to bring the trunk show to YOU and YOUR AREA, by allowing you to host your very own <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> Trunk Show. We're taking baby steps here and our first few trunk shows would be exclusive to our popular infinity scarves, only. We want to make sure this is going to work and what better way to break it in, than with some of our lovely scarves? So how does this work?</div>
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It's 3 easy steps and it's FREE...</div>
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1. Simply click on this link to fill out an application <a href="http://www.blogger.com/%3C!--%20123ContactForm.com%20script%20begins%20here%20--%3E%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%20%3Cscript%20type=%22text/javascript%22%3Evar%20servicedomain=%22www.123contactform.com%22;%20var%20frmRef=window.top.location.href;%20var%20cfJsHost%20=%20((%22https:%22%20==%20document.location.protocol)%20?%20%22https://%22%20:%20%22http://%22);%20document.write(unescape(%22%3Cscript%20src='%22%20+%20cfJsHost%20+%20servicedomain%20+%20%22/includes/easyXDM.min.js'%20type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E%22));%20document.write(unescape(%22%3Cscript%20src='%22%20+%20cfJsHost%20+%20servicedomain%20+%20%22/jsform-370694.js?ref=%22+frmRef+%22'%20type='text/javascript'%3E%3C/script%3E%22));%20%3C/script%3E%20%3Cp%3E%3Ca%20class=%22footerLink13%22%20href=%22http://www.123contactform.com%22%20title=%22Html%20forms%22%3EHtml%20forms%3C/a%3E%20powered%20by%20123ContactForm.com%C2%A0|%C2%A0%3Ca%20class=%22footerLink13%22%20title=%22Looks%20like%20phishing?%20Report%20it!%22%20href=%22http://www.123contactform.com/sf.php?s=123contactform-52&control119314=http://www.123contactform.com/contact-form--370694.html&control190=Report%20abuse%22%20rel=%22nofollow%22%3EReport%20abuse%3C/a%3E%3C/p%3E%3C!--%20123ContactForm.com%20script%20ends%20here%20--%3E">Dainty Button Trunk Show Application</a>.</div>
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2. Once the application has been accepted, we will contact you within 48 hours, with further details and to secure a date, if you are a good candidate.</div>
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3. Every scarf sale you make, YOU get to keep $1 for yourself. Not only is this a FREE opportunity, you're getting paid. </div>
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Interested? We're anxious to start booking Fall Trunk Shows! </div>
Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-28251670246176315702012-07-23T14:16:00.004-07:002012-07-23T14:16:54.679-07:00Let's get crafty!<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's talk about crafts, shall we? I'm a very crafty person. I was raised with a crafty mom and I adore doing crafts, which would explain my business. I love DIY projects and I'm pretty good at looking at something and going home and doing it on my own. I would rather do it on my own, anyways. It's a talent, I guess you could say. And there are some that don't have a crafty bone in their body. I have a few friends like that and it's a disaster when they're helping me do something. It's ok, they admit to it. I have lost count of how many customers, intrigued, curious, and nosy (it's ok, most of us are) people have asked how we make our accessories at <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a>. When I was first asked this, I would just stay mum and say "thank you." I felt like I would be letting out a huge secret and punished for it, somehow. I'm weird, I know. But the more we've expanded at Dainty Button, the more I've come to realize that it's fun to share ideas. I love getting new ideas and I'm sure you do too. So, that being said, I'm going to announce something that we think is really exciting and I hope you like it as much as we think you will.</div>
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Last week, we were cleaning out our supply cabinets and was amazed at how much we had accumulated over the span of 2.5 years. I'm not sure if any of you participated but we had a big crafter's sale on FB and it was such a success. Leave it to me to start brainstorming. My mind never quits. I started thinking back to previous conversation's with friends and family, emails from young girls, women and even other businesses about our production process, etc. And I realized that I want to share what we do here at <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a>. You have the crafters that love to make things on their own and even resale them and you have the non-crafters that would not go within 10 feet of a glue gun. So, why not offer the best of both worlds to our customers, right? We started off as an accessories business and have taken a little break, so to speak, but this week we are launching new accessories and trying to get back in a groove, after many customers have contacted us and frankly, we really miss it. But with launching new accessories, which we will always have available, we are launching...</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>The Krafter's Kloset</i></b></span></div>
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This will officially launch on Friday, July 27th in our etsy shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">Dainty Button etsy</a> and our website <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a>. This will be a place where crafter's and even other accessory businesses can purchase crafting and accessory making supplies at a really great price. Here's what you can look for...</div>
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<b>Fabrics</b></div>
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<b>Buttons</b></div>
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<b>Notions</b></div>
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<b>Trims</b></div>
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<b>Lace</b></div>
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<b>Pre-Cut Felt Flowers (made with our European wool felt in a ridiculous amount of colors)</b></div>
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<b>Rosettes</b></div>
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We're bringing it to you! We thought we'd give you a little idea of what will be offered and you can actually purchase these items today...</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Rosettes in a Bag</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/105103106/cotton-rosettes-red-hot-chiles-headband">Rosettes in a bag on etsy....</a></b></span></div>
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And last but certainly not least. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Headband in a Bag</b></span></div>
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So, my business partner and best friend (one in the same) and I were just throwing ideas around and she asked me why don't I do a "headband in a bag." Genius, right! There's been several occasions where we've gotten customers who wanted a custom made headband or maybe something altered on a headband in our etsy shop or website. Well, this is having your cake and eating it too, so to speak. Just don't eat the headband. We're introducing "headband in a bag." What is it?</div>
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This is our first one, so more options will be available soon. </div>
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1. Blank headband</div>
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2. Pre-cut unglued/unattached European wool felt flowers</div>
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3. Buttons/notions</div>
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4. Trims, lace, etc.</div>
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5. European wool felt pre-cut leaves</div>
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These items will differ and alter, depending on what designs we offer. This is allowing you to put your headband together as you please, but with our designs. You can purchase the one pictured now in our etsy shop...</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/105105320/headband-in-a-bag-red-hot-chile"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Headband in a Bag on etsy</span></a></div>
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We're really excited about this and hope all of you crafters will be able to get some good use out of what we offer. Check back on this Friday, July 27th for the complete selection of crafting and accessory making supplies. Until then, cheers!</div>
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Charity and DB Team</div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-595962059885029142012-07-09T09:26:00.002-07:002012-07-09T09:26:30.851-07:00Kept Promises<div style="text-align: center;">
This thought has been on my mind all week long. I've been swamped in VBS (Vacation Bible School) for the past month and as we kick off our VBS tonight, it's been extremely busy this past week. What does this post have anything to do with DB? A lot. Let me explain...</div>
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Many people always ask me, "How did you start your business?" Well, believe it or not, it didn't just pop up in thin air. It actually started about 5 years ago, although I was not aware of this. I don't just put this out there all the time because I'm a very strong believer that your lifestyle, actions, and character will speak for themselves. That being said, I'm sure most of our blog followers, as well as social media, know that I'm a Christian. A little bit about me...I come from a strong Christian background and my dad is a preacher. I was always known as "the preacher's daughter" at school. I started working my first public job at 18 and worked my way up to management position in the dental field. I then became involved with the children's ministry in my home church, here in San Francisco and I realized I loved children. So much in fact that I became a teacher. Prior to becoming a teacher, I was in a very stressful job in the dental field. I was managing an office and with the hours and demands of my public job and the various ministries at my church, I was exhausted, not to mention discouraged. My heart was where my passion was and that was the church. I knew as an adult I just couldn't quit my public job and go volunteer at the church, so I began to pray. I prayed fervently for God to open doors so that I could give 100% of my time to the ministries in our church. I never quit praying this prayer, even when it didn't seem that this prayer would ever be answered. I started teaching in a Christian private academy, not really understanding that God was leading me through an open door that would essentially place me where I am today. See, I made a promise to Him. I told God that if He opened the door for me to work for the church or at least present an opportunity that allowed me to dedicate my time to the ministries of the church without the demands and stress of a public job, I would always put Him first. Always. I remember this strong thought one day that I couldn't get out of my mind "Stay faithful to what you're doing." That was my motivation every day that I got up for work dreading the day. I didn't dread teaching kids but it was so discouraging knowing I was putting in 8+ hours a day and my evenings were crammed full of various projects and jobs for the church. I was beyond tired and knew a burnout was right around the corner. I knew I had to stay faithful to what I was doing. Two years ago a friend of mine presented an opportunity to visit Europe with her. I knew that I would never get to Europe any time soon on my teaching salary, so I started making headbands selling them on the side. I never knew that this was the answer to my prayers 5 years ago. To make a long story short, I was able to quit my teaching job and put my time into building my business. This was the answer to my prayers, although I didn't even realize this until I set down with my dad and some business mentors to draw up a business plan. I was able to generate an income on my own hours, while dedicating my time to the ministries in my church. This past week as I've been at our church working on props and preparing for next week's VBS, I'm reminded that I never would've been able to do this 5 years ago. Yes, overseeing a business and making sure it runs efficiently is hard work, if not harder than a public job, but over the past two years God has placed a wonderful team of people in my path to help me run my business smoothly and efficiently, where when projects or events come up at the church, I can devote however many hours I need to that cause and not feel exhausted or tired. I'm reminded that God is faithful and keeps His promises. Don't give up on praying that prayer, even when it seems like God's not hearing it. He hears every prayer and in due season will reward it. Be encouraged today!<br />
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Here's what we've been working on this past week for VBS...<br />
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We made hot air balloons out of bouncy balls, fish net and baskets from the dollar store.<br />
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Gobs of clouds made from insulation foam core bard, traced out with a hot knife and covered in batting.<br />
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Ha! Me on our "white carpet."</div>
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Our diligent workers getting the clouds done.<br />
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Clouds, airplanes, and kites hanging from our foyer.</div>
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Our friends for the week. </div>
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We used blue plastic table covers from the dollar store to cover our entire platform.</div>
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This was not very easy. So glad it's up!</div>
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A man in our church made this hot air balloon for us. This is a picture pre-completed but you can still get the "awe" effect. I really hope that fabric is salvageable after VBS because I'd love to have it!<br />
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Clouds suspended above the pews.<br />
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And our final stage set!</div>
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Charity<br />
xoxo!</div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-21376763715259098552012-07-03T12:25:00.002-07:002012-07-03T12:25:50.594-07:00Introducing...The Designer's Dress<div style="text-align: center;">
Ok, I'm very excited to be blogging this. Deana had this done last week but because of our schedules, we are just now getting an opportunity to announce it. Are you ready?</div>
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Deana text me last week telling me she had a surprise. No idea what she was about to do. Later in the day, she sent me this picture of dresses.</div>
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Or so I thought. I was so over the moon excited about it and kept thinking, "Oh, my Lord! She's been slaving away on all of these dresses!" I swear she's not human, folks! Then she informed me it wasn't a dress. Actually, she did this whole little guessing game with me for almost 30 minutes and it drove me crazy, to be honest with you. Finally, she told me what it was. It wasn't a dress. It was what appeared to be a dress. You know when you wear something that goes so perfectly together and everybody tells you, "I love your dress!" and you reply with, "Oh, it's not a dress." Well, this is THAT outfit. This new item we're introducing is what we've dubbed "The Designer's Dress." Why? Here's why...<br />
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You get to choose:<br />
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Top (Color, print, sleeve length)<br />
Skirt (Color, print, length, style)<br />
Belt (color or print)</div>
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This is the top part of this ensemble. It's our newest item, which is a really big thing because we've only done skirts in our line so far and this is again expanding into new territory with handmade shirts and blouses. This top is offered in 12 different prints and a ridiculously amount of solids, which are featured further in this post. You're designing your own ensemble, so to speak, hence the reason we named this "The Designer's Dress." We have over 12 prints available in our tops and over 30 solids available to choose from. Amazing, right?</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>5 things to know about our new tops...</b></span></div>
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1. They have a wide elastic band that accentuates the waist and when I say accentuates, I'm not kidding. This band will make you look like a supermodel! Ok, maybe a little exaggeration, but it works wonders.</div>
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2. The band is designed to fit over the waistband of the skirts that we offer.</div>
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3. It can be matched with any skirt.<br />
4. They are super comfy<br />
5. You can wear a wide belt over the elastic band and change the entire look.</div>
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Here is a link to our updated <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/size-chart.html">Size Chart</a>.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Top Print Options:</b></span></div>
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As mentioned above, this is the beginning of our top collection. We are going to see how the public and our clientele receive this. Here's the options you have at this moment on our website. We're only offering this on our website as of now because of the many options it provides as you'll be able to mix and match. Etsy does not allow drop down boxes and to make it easier on you as a customer and our production team, we're going to offer exclusively on the website, where you have the drop down box availability in choosing your selections. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Mix and Match Options:</b></span></div>
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Striped jersey knit top paired with:</div>
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<b>Skirt Styles:</b></div>
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Asymmetrical </div>
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Maxi skirt</div>
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Straight maxi</div>
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<b>Colors:</b></div>
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Tangerine orange</div>
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Fuchsia </div>
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Yellow</div>
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Red</div>
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Black</div>
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<b>Not Pictured:</b></div>
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Coral</div>
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Minty green</div>
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Kelly green</div>
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Purple (plum, lavender, true purple)</div>
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Grey (charcoal, heather)</div>
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Nude</div>
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Tan</div>
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Cream</div>
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Navy</div>
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Brown</div>
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Burnt Orange</div>
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Neon Pink</div>
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Neon Yellow</div>
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Neon Green</div>
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<b>Belts:</b></div>
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Polka dot</div>
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Any solid mentioned above</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-81lOpF8ggp0/T_MPc8CzjnI/AAAAAAAABBI/EXMHpPuhIks/s1600/548053_10150933120907175_1865431822_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-81lOpF8ggp0/T_MPc8CzjnI/AAAAAAAABBI/EXMHpPuhIks/s320/548053_10150933120907175_1865431822_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>How does pricing and purchasing work?</b></span></div>
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We've made this super easy for you and the options are endless. This ensemble is not sold as one piece basically because it defeats the purpose allowing you to mix and match. Also, our skirts are priced differently. When you checkout you will be given different drop down options, such as this...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mvfD8ddatn8/T_MaIK8aZ2I/AAAAAAAABBo/Pks8rNwDyKk/s1600/drop+down+example.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mvfD8ddatn8/T_MaIK8aZ2I/AAAAAAAABBo/Pks8rNwDyKk/s400/drop+down+example.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is the most option friendly item we have. We are allowing you as the customer to piece your ensemble together. It's a custom feature we're offering you. You can now purchase <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/dresses.html">HERE</a> on our website. Hurry and get to matching!</div>
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Charity and DB Team</div>
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<br /></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-3670742518544610552012-06-28T20:39:00.003-07:002012-06-28T20:39:55.909-07:00POP UP SALES<div style="text-align: center;">
Good evening, everybody! I will get straight to the point with this post and give you the details regarding our <b>POP UP SALES.</b>..</div>
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We love doing <b>POP UP SALES</b>. Why? Because it gives our customers an opportunity to purchase items at low prices. In case you're new to our <b>POP UP SALES</b>, here's how we've managed them in the past...</div>
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We'll post items on our FB fan page, price, quantity, size (if applicable to clothing) and retail/shipping cost. The first to comment with their email address receives an invoice via PayPal. If there's 5 available, the first 5 will receive an invoice and so on. The individual has <b>12 HOURS</b> to take care of the invoice, otherwise it will be voided and reissued to the next individual waiting in the comment section. This is a "first come first serve" type of sale. This has worked for the most part but I'll be very honest with you, it's a lot of work to manage invoices and to send them, especially on really large sales. For the most part we do a good job of staying on top of invoices and getting orders out but there are cases in which we simply overlook an invoice because the volume of sales is so high. Another issue is people do not pay their invoices and when we go to cancel the invoice, we get an email shortly after asking if we can reissue it. Overall, these are great sales and we love offering them to our customers but we're going to make a couple changes that will benefit everyone. We're moving our POP UP SALES to our etsy shop. We will directly post the links onto our FB wall so our fans can see what's being offered, they can click on the link and purchase. Ordering through etsy allows you to choose the number of items you want with combined shipping and allows us to efficiently manage orders as they come in avoiding any cases of unpaid invoices, upset customers and overlooked transactions, resulting in delayed orders. </div>
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<b>How do I purchase on etsy? It seems difficult.</b></div>
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Etsy is a great place to purchase items and it's very easy to get a username. You simply register for a username and you're set to go. Etsy does allow third party transactions, as well. The benefits of ordering through etsy are:</div>
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1. You can email us directly regarding your order.</div>
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2. You can track your order.</div>
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3. You can purchase all items together at once with combined shipping.</div>
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4. There's no fighting over who gets what.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>NOTE ABOUT TOMORROW'S SALE...</b></span></div>
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We happen to have a selection of fabulous patriotic scarves. These will be shipped tomorrow afternoon, priority, in order for you to receive by the 4th of July. Please note, this is only on what we tag as patriotic. All other scarves will be shipped within a week's time. </div>
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Will we see you tomorrow in our etsy shop for our Scarf POP UP SALE? I hope so! Look for the links to be posted on our FB wall tomorrow beginning at 10 AM (PST). We strongly recommend you to sign up for a username tonight so you can purchase right away tomorrow. Good luck!</div>
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Charity and DB Team</div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-57284075123219248082012-06-25T10:16:00.001-07:002012-06-25T10:16:49.542-07:00Waistbands, sizing and EVERYTHING in between!<div style="text-align: center;">
Let's talk waistbands, sizing and everything in between! <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> originally started off as an accessories line. Earlier this year my best friend and I sat down and designed a maxi skirt not knowing just how much our customers would like it and where this would take us. We strive to meet our customers needs, so when we say please let us hear your feedback we want to hear it. Even negative. Negative feedback (done in the right way) drives us to be better. We want to produce quality clothing and in order to do that, there will be tweaks, nips and tucks, here and there to do that. So, let's break this down for you and fill you in on one of our most recent improvements in production. Last week I posted a picture on our FB fan page of a new waistband. Let me explain...</div>
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All of our skirts, with the exception of a couple are designed and made with jersey knit. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;">We use a variation of jersey knits. There's jersey cotton knit, jersey knit, lycra jersey knit, silk jersey knit, ribbed jersey knit, etc.</span></b> All of these textures differ. Most of the maxi skirts that you will find at your local retail store offer the traditional waistband, which is what's pictured below and the traditional wide band that rolls down (not pictured). </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jCHdrc5ceCY/T-f18a2ARdI/AAAAAAAAA_8/VwDuzXX3uFo/s1600/64335_360424297322750_187487127949802_1175153_1469439402_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jCHdrc5ceCY/T-f18a2ARdI/AAAAAAAAA_8/VwDuzXX3uFo/s320/64335_360424297322750_187487127949802_1175153_1469439402_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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This is a great band. We use this on many of our skirts but due to the way some jersey knits fall, this can result in a problem. That problem being the skirt will fall off if it doesn't have enough support, because of the stretch and elasticity of the material. We're just being very honest. That's what customers want, yes? One skirt in particular is our very popular The Juliet. This skirt is a fabulous skirt and also made with an extremely soft and stretchy jersey knit. I emphasize on the "stretchy" part. This is one skirt that by the end of the day, it will have stretched quite a bit but rest assure, after a good wash, it's back to its original size. Because of the elasticity and stretch of this skirt and a traditional maxi waistband, we want to prevent the skirt from falling off, which is why we are improving the waistband. We strive for comfort clothing but there's a fine line between comfortable and well, falling off. We'd like to err on the side of comfortable. Jersey knits are naturally stretchy and the waist needs support, which is why we designed and created this new waistband...</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UqVyxqcl0GE/T-f_o0WjaqI/AAAAAAAABAY/5nIAooPHvkY/s1600/552910_435116696520176_1709304454_n-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UqVyxqcl0GE/T-f_o0WjaqI/AAAAAAAABAY/5nIAooPHvkY/s320/552910_435116696520176_1709304454_n-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This waistband is amazing. When Deana (the other half of DB) experimented with this band on The Juliet, I fell in love. It's extremely flattering, comfy and the best part...it stays on! We have already switched our Juliet maxi's to this waistband due to the issue we were having with the original band stretching. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000;"><b>Please note, if you have already purchased the Juliet, there is nothing wrong with the original, we are simply improving for future purchases. </b></span></div>
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This waistband does not change the look, appearance or design of the skirt. In fact, it's better, in my opinion. We've already started shipping out orders with the new waistband per customers request and we've heard great feedback. With any new business comes things that need to be improved, tweaked and fixed. We're not perfect but we're striving to be the best we can and to meet our customers needs. We hope you enjoy our new waistband as much as we do!</div>
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Because not all customers will want the skinny elastic band, we're going to offer the choice of traditional or elastic upon checkout. Please note that if a waistband preference is not chosen upon</div>
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checkout, we will send the order through production with an elastic band. <b>The Juliet Maxi</b> will not have the option of an elastic or traditional. It will come standardly with the elastic band. </div>
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Where do I start with this part of the blog? This is something that I'm not sure we can stress enough and truthfully speaking, not everybody is going to read this but it's worth a shot. Over the last 4 months that we've started our clothing line, we can count a small handful of customers with exchanges for the wrong size. So why this post? Well, it's better to cover all ground and emphasize our size chart and the design of our skirts and too much information never hurt, right?</div>
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Last week we posted a blog about handmade items <a href="http://daintybutton.blogspot.com/2012/06/handmade-vs-mass-produced.html">Handmade vs. Mass Produced</a>. Handmade items <b>ARE NOT </b>mass produced therefore will not be identical. When you purchase more than one skirt from us, receive the package and compare the two you <b>WILL </b>more than likely see a difference in size and length. </div>
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<b>Is that normal?</b></div>
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Yes, it is. Especially, with handmade items. When we say you'll see a difference, it's not going to be a drastic difference but a small one. Each item varies a little different from the other. This does not mean that we use different patterns or size charts. It's simply because the item is handmade and done individually and not through a machine in a factory. We use an American size chart that is true to size. You will find this size chart in each listing on etsy and a tab on each listing on our website that will direct you to the <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/size-chart.html">SIZE CHART</a>. This is a general size chart simply to assist you in choosing the right size. Chances are when you receive your package it could be too small or too big, which is why we offer exchanges. You're ordering online, have not tried it on, so therefore that is why we offer exchanges. To review our exchange policy click <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/policies.html">here</a>. </div>
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<b>I bought three skirts and they all fit but one, which is too small. I ordered all the same size. What's wrong?</b></div>
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As mentioned in the beginning of this blog we use a variation of jersey knits. Each jersey knit falls, hugs and fits differently. When you're purchasing more than one skirt, <b>PLEASE </b>do not compare the skirts because they will not be identical. Chances are they're made from different jersey knits so they're going to fit differently. Our skirts are not identical to each other, not cookie cutter, therefore they <b>WILL </b> be different. This is not a bad thing. You don't walk into your local retail store and except every single skirt to fit the same. This is the same with our products. We produce every skirt from the pattern we have created for that skirt and some skirts have different patterns <b>BUT PRODUCED FROM THE SAME SIZE CHART.</b> Because we are always looking to make improvements, we will be posting what will be called a <b>BUYERS HINT. </b>This will give the buyer a helpful hint in selecting a size by us stating what type of jersey knit and how it falls.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>5 Helpful Hints About Our Maxi Skirts...</b></span></div>
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1. Our <b>Chevron Maxi's</b> are designed more straight.</div>
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2. Our <b>traditional maxi's</b> are more flared.</div>
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3. Our <b>REGULAR LENGTH</b> maxi's range from 38"-40" in length, which means that they will hit somewhere between those measurements. Another reason to not compare skirts with each other.</div>
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4. Our <b>TALL LENGTH </b>maxi's range froom 41"-43", which means that they will hit somewhere between those measurements. Another reason to not compare skirts with each other.</div>
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5. Our <b>Juliet Maxi </b>does stretch. It will appear to be bigger than the rest of your maxi skirts (if ordering more than one) and more flared. Yes, another reason to not compare it to other skirts.</div>
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The above helpful hints are something to keep in mind when you receive more than one skirt. Again, these are handmade and we go off of the above size chart and measurements. If you choose a <b>REGULAR LENGTH</b> maxi it could be 38" <b>OR </b>it could be 40". We cannot determine the exact length, as there are dozens upon dozens of orders that come through, four individuals in our production team and all of them working on different orders. Getting an exact length with an item being handmade is very difficult, hence the reason we say between 38"-40". This applies to our <b>TALL LENGTH </b>maxi's, as well. Our suggestion is if you're a short person, go with the <b>REGULAR LENGTH</b> because it's either going to be just right or a little long and let's be honest, it's much easier to take up an inch with your local seamstress. If you are a tall person, we suggest the <b>TALL LENGTH </b>and the above mentioned suggestion, as well. Our <b>SHORT SKIRTS </b>standardly come 23"-24" <b>BUT </b>we do offer two other length options in our etsy shop and website. This is designed for tall ladies to purchase a short skirt and still fit in length. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Last but DEFINITELY not least...</b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Checkout on <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #e69138;">etsy</span>, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;">fine print</span> and reading the entire listing...</b></span></div>
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The one thing I don't like about etsy is they don't offer drop down boxes for customers to choose sizes. Blah! This truthfully makes our job even more difficult. In our etsy shop you will find two different listings for the same skirt. This is our <b>REGULAR SIZE </b>listing (XS-L) and a <b>PLUS SIZE </b>listing (XL-3X). When you checkout you <b>MUST </b>state what size you need. Believe it or not, there are some customers that don't put a size and we have no idea what size you need as the listing is for 3-4 different sizes. This really creates more work for the production team as they then have to email customers and sometimes we don't get a response, which stalls your order until there is communication. This applies to <b> LENGTH</b>, as well. We have more customers not choose a length than size and again this makes it more difficult for our production team. </div>
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<b>Where do I put my size on etsy?</b></div>
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Upon checkout in our etsy shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">Dainty Button Etsy</a> there is a section "notes to seller". This is where you state your size. Simply state what size and <b>REGULAR </b>or <b>TALL</b>. Below is an example...</div>
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<b>I didn't see that I needed to put a size or length, so that's why I didn't put anything.</b></div>
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This leads up to reading the <b>ENTIRE LISTING</b>. You would not purchase a car without reading all the fine print or sign legal documents without reading the fine print, so why would you purchase something online without reading the fine print? This is not just for our good but yours too. We want our customers to be very well informed when they purchase our products. When you read the entire listing, a lot of questions are answered. We're often emailed about shipping times, which is clearly stated in each listing and our polices section on our website. It's very important to read the entire listing before purchasing and the end result is everybody is happy. </div>
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And now I can quite using all caps. I feel as if I've been yelling this entire blog post and I hate that. This post is simply our way of providing our customers and future customers with information regarding our product. Again, we are a handmade business and we strive to meet our customers needs. If you have suggestions or feedback, please don't hesitate to contact us at daintybutton@yahoo.com. We'll be more than happy to hear from you and it really helps us in future decisions. Thanks for your time and have a wonderful Monday!</div>
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Charity and DB Team!</div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-77279645015596522362012-06-19T10:44:00.003-07:002012-06-19T10:44:43.088-07:00Handmade vs. Mass Produced<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Handmade vs. Mass Produced</i></b></span></div>
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Growing up, handmade items were looked down upon. It wasn't very cool to wear something handmade. Now, handmade is all the trend. When starting my accidental business at the beginning of 2010 I wasn't much aware of etsy, which is a marketplace to buy and sell handmade items. You can find our etsy shop here <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">Dainty Button Etsy Shop</a>. In fact, I wasn't too fond of etsy. I warmed up to the idea and created a shop, not really knowing what I was getting myself into. I was so amazed that only after a few weeks of creating headbands so many people wanted to buy them and it wasn't my sweet grandma. I will save the story of how Dainty Button came into existence for a later time and get to my point. After 2.5 years of owning a business that designs, creates and produces handmade items, I thought it would be nice to break it down and give you the "411" on why handmade items are worth every penny.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>What's so special about handmade items?</i></b></span></div>
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Have you ever received a gift that was handmade? A truly beautiful item that when you unwrapped it, you felt so special because you knew someone had spent a lot of time, energy, and thought into it. That is what you get when you buy handmade. When I purchase something from Target, a department store, etc. I hardly ever think about where it was made or how it was made. I know it was made in a factory somewhere but that's as far as I get. Oh and the fact my money is going to a big CEO somewhere who already has enough money than he/she knows what to do with and I will probably see a dozen different posts on FB with someone wearing the same article of clothing. Original, right? Let's talk handmade...</div>
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Who works at Dainty Button? </div>
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1. A young married woman who works very hard to help her husband make ends meet. </div>
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2. Two single college students living in San Francisco, voted one of America's most expensive cities, working different jobs, trying to pay the rent every month and put food on their table. Surviving. </div>
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3. A housewife needing extra income to help put her children through college.</div>
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4. High school students wanting afternoon work to help learn responsibility and prepare them for "life".</div>
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These are the people that work putting your purchase(s) through production and shipping. A lot of time goes into each and every purchase. When you purchase and receive an item from a handmade business, you're helping someone pay their rent, put food on their table, further their education, etc. You are supporting the country you live in. America. You're blessing others.</div>
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I bet you just learned more about a small business than you know about more large companies in America, right? </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Why you SHOULD buy handmade...</i></b></span></div>
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<b>1. </b>You can purchase clothing in any size you want and it actually FITS! None of this skinny minnie Forever 21 size chart. Handmade is custom made so chances are if you ask real nicely, most businesses will be happy to make it the size you need and want.</div>
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<b>2. </b>They're original! When you're wearing a local designer's clothing or accessories, you are in a different league and make a statement other than wearing your local box store brand.</div>
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<b>3. </b>A special garment or accessory that is meticulously designed and crafted for a truly unique fit and feel.</div>
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<i>"My favorite reason to buy handmade is just that - it's handmade, which means quality, and a whole lot of love!"</i></div>
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<i>Another reason:</i></div>
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<i>"I buy handmade because someone else is using their talents to create gifts and decor that I myself cannot make. Buy handmade today!"</i></div>
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Cammie Higley</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ScribbleIt">ScribbleIt.etsy.com</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i> "When something is handmade, very likely the craft person is deliberate and mindful about that next right stitch, next right bead, next just right rusty object that looks more like a dog nose on a found object sculpture than the last rusty treasure they picked up. Handmade products always feel more personal to me. I think about who might have been the artisan and wonder at how they managed to produce the item of the moment I am most smitten with and can't live without (no doubt, that rusty dog sculpture). I love knowing I'm supporting someone's passion. And even though I buy from handmade artisan's in states and countries I've never visited, I feel a sense of community when receiving an item that travels from their hand to mine. I like that I know who to contact to say "it's here! I love it!" - one person to another. "</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;">Manny</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/mannybeads">Mannybeads.etsy.com</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><i>"You are supporting local artisans and craftspeople and not large big box stores."<br /><br /> "It guarantees that no one will give the same gift as you!"<br /><br />"The items are much more fashion forward....there is no "wait-time" for large businesses to design and then mass-produce. One indie designer can list something *today* that he/she made *today.* (So it wasn't designed and planned last Christmas...for this Christmas)"<br /><br />"Many items are much more environmentally friendly since there is no use of large manufacturing machines, chemicals, labor (some of it probably illegal) and waste. Many Annie and Olive items (for instance) are made from sustainable wool felt that has been naturally dyed, a needle, thread and my two hands."<br /><br />"It's fun to see the creativity and excellence of the very, very talented designers out there. It harkens back to the days of old when craftsmanship, creativity and quality were paramount - You are buying items not mass-produced and impersonal but are very personal not only to the buyer, but to the maker."</i><br /><br />Bethany</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/annieandolive">AnnieandOlive.etsy.com</a></span></div>
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I think the most frequent question we're asked is...</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>When will my item ship? or...Why hasn't my item shipped yet?</i></b></span></div>
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Imagine making your own headband or skirt. Ok, now multiply that by about 12 each day (and that's a minimum). This is our day, every day. As much as we would love to get your purchase out within 48 hours, it's just not humanly possible. When you purchase handmade, you're purchasing good quality items and the wait is worth it! I promise. At <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> our items normally take <b>2-3 WEEKS (excluding weekends/holidays) </b>to go through production before shipping. Again, it's worth the wait. When you purchase mass production it's going to go out much sooner but it's mass produced. Think about it : )<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Originality is not cookie cutter...</i></b></span><br />
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Handmade items are original, which is the reason when you purchase from handmade businesses, some items, although duplicated, are going to differ a little. Remember, when items are identical it's cookie cutter and let's face it...handmade is not cookie cutter. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>A little glimpse of "behind the scenes" at Dainty Button...</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Do you sell handmade? </i></b></span></div>
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Selling handmade items is definitely a trend and the "in" thing now, so are you selling handmade? Do you have a special talent? Here's some great places to promote your handmade business..</div>
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<b><i>60 Killer Places to Promote your Handmade Business</i></b></div>
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<a href="http://outright.com/blog/60-killer-places-to-promote-your-handmade-business/">http://outright.com/blog/60-killer-places-to-promote-your-handmade-business/</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Other helpful tidbits for online handmade businesses...</i></b></span></div>
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<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Take it to social media!</span> </b></i></div>
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The key to having a successful facebook or twitter fan page is....</div>
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<b>1. </b>Consistency. Your followers and customers won't know who or what you are if you're not posting anything. At least once a day promote an item...talk it up! </div>
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<b>2. </b>Be personal with your followers on social media. People want to know who's behind your business and what makes you tick. The more personable you are with your clientele and followers, the more they feel connected. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Get connected with other businesses...</i></b></span></div>
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I think the best thing I ever did as a business owner was/is promote other businesses. This is a great way of connecting with other handmade business owners/artists. You're getting their name out there and yours as well. This also boosts self esteem and confidence in your business and you as a business owner. </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Vend at craft fair venues...</i></b></span><br />
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I started <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a> in January of 2010 and I vended my first event in February of the same year. It was horrible. Not many people knew who I was, where I was from. I was the new kid on the block. I was so frustrated when I went home that I really wanted to throw in the towel. I made just enough to cover my booth expenses. My mom (my #1 fan) encouraged me to keep at it. I'm so happy I did. I vended my next event later in the spring and it was so much better. I took opportunities as they popped up and the more events I did, the more my name got out there and now I love doing craft fairs and vending venues. I will say this about craft fairs. Don't jump at every single one because the truth is, you will not make a good profit at every single event. When choosing a good venue, research it out. Find out where it's at, what the attendance is like and ask around if anybody has done that event and how they did. What you don't want to do is jump at every single vending venue and lose money. Be wise about it.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Market your product...</i></b></span><br />
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Most people have at least one handmade store/boutique in their area. This is where you want to market your product. It's a 50/50 chance and there's always that possibility of them saying "no" but just as much as that could happen, they could say "yes". You won't know until you try, right? I walked into a handmade boutique here in San Francisco wearing one of my headbands and it caught the owner's attention. By the next week they were carrying my work, which led to several other boutiques throughout the city, which led to boutiques across the states and even overseas in Naples, Italy. Take your work, present it to stores and see where you get. It's worth the try : )<br />
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<b><i>Note: ALWAYS have a contract drawn up when partnering with any business when they want to carry your work. It protects both parties and keeps your work just that...yours.</i></b><br />
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<b><i>Here's a couple of our favorite handmade shops and websites that we want to share with you...</i></b><br />
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<b><i><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheMrsDarcy?ref=search_shop_redirect">The Mrs. Darcy</a></i></b><br />
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<b><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/HaloandMeme?ref=top_trail">Halo and Meme</a></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SoapGarden?ref=top_trail">Soap Garden</a><br />
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Hope you've enjoyed this post and remember to buy handmade!<br />
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Charity and DB Team</div>
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<br /></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-901114973229364292012-06-12T01:37:00.002-07:002012-06-12T01:37:38.083-07:00DIY Father's Day Ideas<div style="text-align: center;">
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<i>Well, we took a little break in our Father's Day feature week so we wouldn't overwhelm you guys, as you can see our poster says through the 8th. Good idea? Bad idea? We love blogging so if you guys like something every day, we'll do it! Anyways...we have a special blog for you today (actually, tonight as I'm putting this together at night). If you've been following us you'll know that we've brought on a creative blog team. We have two special blog team members for you today and they have some fabulous ideas! Father's Day is right around the corner and if you're wanting something to do with the kids this week or maybe something budget friendly with sentimental thought put into it, you've stumbled upon the right post. We hope you enjoy what our blog team has come up with and feel free to email us (<b>daintybutton@yahoo.com) </b>or comment below with your thoughts, "shout outs" and even ideas. Meet our first blog team member, <b>Susanna Simpson.</b> She put together some wonderful Father's Day DIY cards. Hope you enjoy!</i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;">DIY Father's Day Cards</span></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">I love to make handmade cards! There is something very special about spending time to express your love or appreciation for that special person, through the labor of a card made from your heart! And with Fathers Day right around the corner, what better project to give your children that a few pieces of paper, some markers, and their imagination to make something extra special for their super hero! I have compiled a few neat ideas for every type of Father. From a first time Father, to the one that has many years and stories etched on the lines of his face, these cards will not disappoint!</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">For a first time Father, their first Fathers Day is something very special. It is a time for them to be very grateful for the special bundle they hold in their arms! The perfect card would be anything that has a special touch from their sweet baby, so add a handprint or a footprint! I found an adorable card that had the child's thumb print made into a cute bunny rabbit and said "Some Bunny Loves You!" How easy is that! Even the smallest of children can get in on the fun! And if you want to break out of the "box", instead of a rectangle shaped card, make it a heart shape! For a first year father, this will sure to bring out a smile! Another suggestion would be to make it small enough and laminate it, to fit in their wallet. So next time dad reaches into his wallet for his debit card, he will see that token of affection from his little guy/girl!</span></div>
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<a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/thumb-bunny-card-662916/">Directions Here</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">What dad wouldn't love new tools on Fathers Day? I know my dad has asked me for a new tool kit for years, but let's face it, tools are expensive! Well this handy tool is one that will cost you very little,( you can find most of the items needed around your house!), and will be just what your skilled dad is looking for!<br />Found on familyfun.go.com/Fathers-Day, this inexpensive how-to is great for older children that are wanting to surprise their dad, and gives them a chance to plug into their creative outlet. Open up your pantry because all you need for this card is an empty macaroni box, yellow cardstock paper, and aluminum foil. This craft takes less than an hour and a half, and will defiantly be a statement piece on Fathers Day morning! Not only will your children have fun making this nifty card, they will enjoy showing their dads how they "measure up"! </span></div>
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<a href="http://familyfun.go.com/crafts/how-dad-measures-up-904176/">Click here on how to make this....</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">My dad has the worlds largest sweet tooth. I am sure I could find him in the Guinness Book of Records! So when I saw this great idea for a giant card, I could not resist posting it! Found on Pinterest, it's a card that is larger and sweeter than life. <b>Needed is one poster board in any color, a sharpie, tape, and a selection of candy bars</b>. Simply write the message displayed and tape the appropriate candy bars in each designated area. I would consider also purchasing a bottle of medicine to help with the upset stomach your dad is sure to have after devouring this card! </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">The Cosby Show was my inspiration for this card! I remember an episode when Theo buys Dr Huxstable a very hideous, light -flashing tie for Fathers Day I am sure 90% of us have purchased our dads a tie on Fathers Day, and possibly some of them required batteries! I found this simple and cute tie and shirt card tutorial on <a href="http://familyfun.go.com/fathers-day" style="color: #234786; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1339485626_1" style="color: #366388; cursor: pointer;">familyfun.go.com/fathers-day</span></a>. All you need is two pieces of scrapbook paper, buttons, and glue. Perfect for any dad that likes a sharp-dressed card!</span></div>
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<a href="http://familyfun.go.com/fathers-day/fathers-day-crafts/fathers-day-cards/formal-greetings-668464/">To make your own necktie card, click here...</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">The last card I found is one that has a special meaning to me. When I was a child, my dad would tuck me into bed and tell me that he loved me. I would then ask him, "how much do you love me". He always replied, with his hands stretched out as far as they could go, "this much"! I cherish those little moments, and when I found this tutorial on <a href="http://tipjunkie.com/" style="color: #234786; outline-color: initial; outline-style: initial; outline-width: 0px; text-decoration: underline;" target="_blank"><span class="yshortcuts" id="lw_1339485626_2" style="color: #366388; cursor: pointer;">tipjunkie.com</span></a>, I knew it was one I had to share! Simply trace and cut out your child's handprints. On one handprint write, "I love you". Next cut a strip of paper as long as you would like it and write, "this much". Fold it into an accordion shape and glue one end to one handprint and the other end to the other print. Write another special message on the second print. You could add your favorite picture or decorate it with colorful stickers. Make sure and stretch those hands out far and show dad that your love is never ending! </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.tipjunkie.com/">For directions, click here...</a></div>
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<i>Meet Corrine Luftus, one of our newest creative blog team members. She's put together some wonderful budget friendly DIY ideas. We hope you enjoy them just as much as we do!</i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;"><i>Father's Day Budget Friendly DIY Ideas</i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Coming from a single parent home, Father’s Day has always been the giving of just a card and a text from me. I knew this was going to be challenging since I’ve never actually participated in any Father’s Day activities. I kept seeing dad’s best gifts were the time you spend with him everywhere as I searched and knew that was what I was looking for. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Many wallets are tight again this year, as they have been in past, so the main goal was to find budget friendly activities that everyone in the family could participate in. I also had to be fair because some states are just too hot to be outdoors already! Here's a few I found and I hope your family takes the time to enjoy one of them! Please use the links included for more detailed instructions!</span></div>
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<b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Serve dad breakfast in bed!</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E-nClTwgZ0w/T9b1mO9XGpI/AAAAAAAAA8o/3pgRf8_KYtM/s1600/peanut-butter-french-toast-1-med108462_vert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E-nClTwgZ0w/T9b1mO9XGpI/AAAAAAAAA8o/3pgRf8_KYtM/s1600/peanut-butter-french-toast-1-med108462_vert.jpg" /></a></div>
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<b>Peanut Butter Stuffed French Toast- </b>I’m sure most dads would love to be woken up in the morning to the wonderful smells of breakfast coming their way! Especially something as yummy sounding as this! If he’s not that type of guy, make it a family effort!</div>
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Prep Time: 20 minutes, Cook Time: 20 minutes Serves: 4</div>
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<b>Ingredients:</b></div>
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<span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>1 pound strawberries, hulled and sliced </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12px;">•</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;">5 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>1⁄4 cup whole milk</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>1 1⁄2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>1⁄2 cup natural peanut butter</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>8 slices white bread </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>1 to 2 tablespoons unsalted butter </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #454545; font-size: 12px;"><span style="font: normal normal normal 12px/normal Symbol;">•</span>Confectioners’ sugar</span></div>
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1.Toss strawberries with 3 tablespoons granulated sugar. Whisk together eggs,</div>
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remaining 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla. Spread peanut butter</div>
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on 4 slices bread and top with remaining slices. </div>
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2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In a large skillet, heat 1-tablespoon butter over medium-high. Dip both sides of</div>
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sandwiches in egg mixture and add to skillet (if necessary, work in batches, adding more butter and reducing heat to medium after first batch). Cook until undersides are golden, 2 minutes, then flip and cook 2 minutes. To serve, dust sandwiches with confectioners’ sugar and top with strawberries <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/902460/peanut-butter-stuffed-french-toast">http://www.marthastewart.com/902460/peanut-butter-stuffed-french-toast</a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Make it a craft night with dad!</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk8Q936bhf8/T9b3wJPG1aI/AAAAAAAAA8w/rJ8LxxhaqW8/s1600/fd+diy+t-shirts+by+homemade+mamas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk8Q936bhf8/T9b3wJPG1aI/AAAAAAAAA8w/rJ8LxxhaqW8/s320/fd+diy+t-shirts+by+homemade+mamas.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><i><a href="http://www.parentmap.com/article/17-fathers-day-crafts-and-activities-that-kids-can-make-with-dad?page=14"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">For directions, click here...</span></a></i></b></div>
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<b>Sketch-a- Shirt- </b>This is probably one of the coolest ideas I’ve seen around pinterest and on homemademamas. It uses things hanging around the house or maybe a shirt you have little bleach spots on already into new art! The best part?! You hardly have to spend any money on this project at all! All you need is a cutting board or something hard to put between the layers of the shirt, a piece of chalk, to pre-trace your drawing, a bleach pen, and a paper towel to make sure your pen works before you try it on a shirt. Easy peasy!</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Father's Day Surprise!</i></b></span></div>
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<b><i><a href="http://father.tipjunkie.com/envelope-surprises-father-day-ideas/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">For directions on how to make your own, click here...</span></a></i></b></div>
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<b>Envelope Surprises- </b>For this one you can go as fancy or as basic as you want!! Before Father’s Day or on Father’s day! Each member of the family is going to add a poem, thought or even memory along with a personal gift for dad to open that will lead to his BIG gift! There are endless possibilities for this one! Homemade envelopes, you name it, so get those thinking caps on and get crafty!!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Shakespeare Dad</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx15Zqv0mJQ/T9b9qNPj3tI/AAAAAAAAA9U/pemxV6y-ck4/s1600/Made-by-Joel-A-River-of-Words-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cx15Zqv0mJQ/T9b9qNPj3tI/AAAAAAAAA9U/pemxV6y-ck4/s320/Made-by-Joel-A-River-of-Words-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://madebyjoel.com/2011/07/poetry-river-craft.html">Find out how to make your own here...</a></b></div>
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<b>Poetry River- </b>This was one of the neatest projects I came across! Depending on the ages of you children it can totally be adjusted to their level. The author that wrote this actually cut a little blue river and it may be fun to do the same maybe add some drawings, go a fun mini scavenger hunt outside if it’s not too hot to add to the river! Now, you add in some cut up papers with words such as thoughts, memories feelings to make up little poems or stories. How fun and creative can you be?</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Give dad a piece of your heart!</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.thechocolatemuffintree.com/2012/05/salt-dough-heart-necklaces.html">You can find out how to make your own here...</a></div>
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<b>Salt Dough Necklace- </b>This last one was written as a Mother’s day or Valentine’s day activity and I liked it too much to not share. Why can’t the shapes be different or why can’t dad’s have it as a key chain? Salt dough necklaces, an easy three-ingredient process, that every one gets to be creative with! All you need is flour, salt and water. Depending on what you want to decorate with you may need some paint and ribbon, or key rings. A fun and family oriented activity!</div>
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<br />Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-42442957333243038722012-06-07T16:25:00.002-07:002012-06-07T16:43:13.288-07:00Our Top 10 Celebrity Dad's<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AgCaH-lGWPs/T9EF5cGRkkI/AAAAAAAAA5s/FIp20hXJVAU/s1600/DB+Father's+Day+Blog+Feature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AgCaH-lGWPs/T9EF5cGRkkI/AAAAAAAAA5s/FIp20hXJVAU/s320/DB+Father's+Day+Blog+Feature.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Ok, it's time for us to get a little shallow. Whether we like to admit it or not, most of us are quite fascinated with the world of Hollywood. I do think there are boundaries to be set because just as we are fascinated with the life of Hollywood, there is another world called "life" and we live in it. This post might not have much depth to it...ok, no depth to it. Ha! But when we were putting together this Father's Day blog feature week, we thought it would be fun to give you our "top 10" celebrity dad's. <b>Felicia Dilday</b>, who is one of our newest creative blog team members has put together a great list of "top 10" celebrity dad's. <b>Felicia</b> is absolutely adorable. You'll be seeing quite a bit of her on our blog giving hair tutorials, DIY's and anything else we may cook up. Feel free to leave a comment or shout out to <b>Felicia</b> or email us at <b>info@daintybutton.com. </b></i></div>
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<i><b>Blog Editor</b></i></div>
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<i><b>Charity</b></i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7oaM9nBf68/T9EHJy6GLNI/AAAAAAAAA50/fYYJbpzI3Y0/s1600/felicia+blog+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7oaM9nBf68/T9EHJy6GLNI/AAAAAAAAA50/fYYJbpzI3Y0/s200/felicia+blog+pic.jpg" width="161" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Our Top 10 Celebrity Dad's 2012</i></b></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">We’re all thankful for the time we get to spend with our dad’s, right? What about the little one’s who live the “glamorous Hollywood life”? Not often do celebrities have time, or should I say more like “make the time” for their children. Today, we’ve chosen the top ten celebrity fathers. So let’s get started!</span></span></i></b></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><i>Jamie Oliver</i></span></i></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">You often catch Jamie out and about with his family doing fun things and having family time. Not only does Jamie Oliver want the best for his children but he also wants the best for yours. I’m sure you’ve seen “Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution” on ABC. On his show, he promotes healthy eating and combating children obesity across America. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #9</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Brad Pitt</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkrgBPumbDA/T9Ev94nijVI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/-8qxnHwHEEU/s1600/fp_7011153_pitt_jolie_last_fp7_09_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fkrgBPumbDA/T9Ev94nijVI/AAAAAAAAA6Q/-8qxnHwHEEU/s320/fp_7011153_pitt_jolie_last_fp7_09_13.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Chasing around six kids would be a task in itself, not to mention chaotic! But Brad is up for the challenge. In fact, he has stated several times that he wants more kids... lots more! (Which means even more chaos, of course!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #8</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Will Smith</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3VEHHbYe5_E/T9Ewsp0hGSI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/vhSZm9R5-bw/s1600/Will-Smith-family.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3VEHHbYe5_E/T9Ewsp0hGSI/AAAAAAAAA6Y/vhSZm9R5-bw/s320/Will-Smith-family.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Will Smith is one, if not the biggest supporter of his twelve year old daughter's singing career. He has often got his children to play many roles as his children in the movies he has starred in. Not only does he make choices to benefit his career, but he also thinks about his family too. </span> </span></i></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #7</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Usher</i></span></span></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQ4bY9MpfvE/T9ExT6K_k0I/AAAAAAAAA6g/mmbD8P6TBNA/s1600/usher1and2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EQ4bY9MpfvE/T9ExT6K_k0I/AAAAAAAAA6g/mmbD8P6TBNA/s320/usher1and2.jpg" width="229" /></a></i></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Babies bring out the soft side in everyone, even “cool guys” like Usher. It's nothing new to see Usher at a park swinging with the kids, sliding down the slide right behind them, and climbing the monkey bars. Quality time with his kids is important to him.</span> </span></i></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #6</span></span></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Ben Affleck</i></span></span></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WasIrR3XkNU/T9EyFzO4CrI/AAAAAAAAA6o/XwtFBqbvqSk/s1600/jennifer-garner-3-500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WasIrR3XkNU/T9EyFzO4CrI/AAAAAAAAA6o/XwtFBqbvqSk/s320/jennifer-garner-3-500.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Ben Affleck might be up for the “Boring Celebrity Dad” award, but in Hollywood, it’s a great thing! You often see him with his wife and kids at a baseball game, park, and cotton candy stands. You know, "normal" family activities.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #5</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Tim McGraw</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX19EXagqVA/T9Ey7lIhkcI/AAAAAAAAA6w/sqYuJuYpEY4/s1600/th.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IX19EXagqVA/T9Ey7lIhkcI/AAAAAAAAA6w/sqYuJuYpEY4/s1600/th.jpeg" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">As the husband of Faith Hill and father of his three daughters, Gracie, Maggie, and Audrey, Tim McGraw is surrounded by the ladies. He is often out to dinner with his family or taking the family on a road tour with him. He also is man enough to admit, “Yes, living with four girls, I am a boss when it comes to painting toe nails.”</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #4</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Nick Cannon</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4bIirMCM9uk/T9EzmuMb1yI/AAAAAAAAA64/dAJEec_a7D0/s1600/main-mariah-carey-nick-cannon-twins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4bIirMCM9uk/T9EzmuMb1yI/AAAAAAAAA64/dAJEec_a7D0/s320/main-mariah-carey-nick-cannon-twins.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">You’ve got to give these parents props. They kept these kids out of the media for as long as possible, and are still trying to keep them out of it as much as possible because of not wanting them to feel like they have to live that “Hollywood lime light” life when they’re older.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> I’m impressed.</span> </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #3</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>David Beckham</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gCuGeXA3Mzw/T9E0iZoqsdI/AAAAAAAAA7A/zQuhic960MI/s1600/beckham-family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gCuGeXA3Mzw/T9E0iZoqsdI/AAAAAAAAA7A/zQuhic960MI/s320/beckham-family.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This husband of a famous fashionista has his priorities straight. Sure he travels the globe kicking some serious booty on the soccer field, but his real passion is raising Brooklyn, Romeo, and Cruz.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #2</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i>Matt Damon</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gjl9thPKY8w/T9E2CTOKTAI/AAAAAAAAA7I/iqhOfU2a3RA/s1600/matt_damon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gjl9thPKY8w/T9E2CTOKTAI/AAAAAAAAA7I/iqhOfU2a3RA/s320/matt_damon.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Brad Pitt’s buddy Matt, is starting to catch up to him in the baby-making department. Matt and his wife Luciana are expecting their third child together to add to their family. He has often said in the media “Being a father has made me settle down. I wouldn’t change having my angels.”</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Celebrity Dad #1</span></span></div>
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><i> Seal</i></span></i></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><div style="font: normal normal normal 18px/normal Helvetica; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">
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<i><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnYLL9c2txA/T9E3w_5MErI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/Vygp00Jf5as/s1600/heidi-klum-and-seals-family-out-and-about-in-new-york-812x1024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnYLL9c2txA/T9E3w_5MErI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/Vygp00Jf5as/s320/heidi-klum-and-seals-family-out-and-about-in-new-york-812x1024.jpg" width="253" /></a></i></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Seal is a popularly known British soul and R&B singer-songwriter who is always taking time out for his kids. If you’re going to catch anyone on vacation with his family in the summer, it’ll be him. </span></span></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><i>Did any of your "top 10" make our list? We'd love to know who's on yours!</i></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-48213814305791044592012-06-05T10:39:00.000-07:002012-06-05T10:39:06.498-07:00Our Shopping Guide to Gifts under $25 for ANY DAD!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfM2cQgzbjg/T845-PWLs6I/AAAAAAAAA4E/e5dOeDe8Rwc/s1600/DB+Father's+Day+Blog+Feature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="336" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfM2cQgzbjg/T845-PWLs6I/AAAAAAAAA4E/e5dOeDe8Rwc/s400/DB+Father's+Day+Blog+Feature.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<i>If you've stumbled onto our blog, welcome! If you're a current reader and/or follower, I'm sure you're aware that this week we are doing a special feature on father's. We recently put together one incredible creative blog team. This week you'll be seeing different blog posts from them and I really hope you enjoy what they've put together for you guys. The variety we have makes me so happy. It's wonderful to see so many different great ideas brought to the table. I'd like to introduce you to one of our creative blog team members...</i></div>
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<i><b>Mandy Palma</b></i></div>
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<i>She's super funny, creative and loves to save! Which is why we've had her put together this wonderful blog post for you today, with some awesome gift ideas under $25! We hope you enjoy what Mandy has put together for our readers and followers. If you have questions, comments or simply just want to give a shout out to Mandy, feel free to email us at daintybutton@yahoo.com or comment in the comments section. Enjoy everyone!</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AY7vX8xGwLA/T85DIAdd4lI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/F2XHGRiRKE0/s1600/Mandy+Palma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AY7vX8xGwLA/T85DIAdd4lI/AAAAAAAAA5Y/F2XHGRiRKE0/s320/Mandy+Palma.jpg" width="257" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Over the years I have given pretty lame Father’s Day gifts & have discovered that it’s “not acceptable” to just trace your hand on construction paper & try to pass it off as a gift . . . when you’re 25. Come on! He did say “<i>oh, just get me anything,</i>” So sorry that “anything” didn’t mean a pen set with ‘Bank of America’ engraved on it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">This year I’ve decided that my awesome Dad deserves more than just a last minute .99 card from Wal-Mart with a cheesy dog on the front. But here is the deal, when you’re on a tight budget it’s hard to find a great gift. I’ve done my research so you don’t have to! Oh & the best part? You can purchase all of these items in your PJs . . . and not wind up on “People of Wal-Mart.” Double bonus!! </span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394; font-size: x-large;"><b>Gifts Under $25.....</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Athletic Dad</span></b><br />
Where: Best Buy </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: Nike +iPod Wireless Sensor</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CtAqNtufU5Y/T847YRhFl4I/AAAAAAAAA4M/0WKWf5Ie0lA/s1600/apple-nike-ipod-wireless-sensor-largefrontimage-320w-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CtAqNtufU5Y/T847YRhFl4I/AAAAAAAAA4M/0WKWf5Ie0lA/s320/apple-nike-ipod-wireless-sensor-largefrontimage-320w-1.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d00ff; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12px;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Apple%26%23174%3B+-+Nike%2B+iPod%26%23174%3B+Wireless+Sensor/9401408.p?id=1218099253370&skuId=9401408&st=GiftCenter_ForHim&cp=1&lp=13">http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Apple%26%23174%3B+-+Nike%2B+iPod%26%23174%3B+Wireless+Sensor/9401408.p?id=1218099253370&skuId=9401408&st=GiftCenter_ForHim&cp=1&lp=13#BVRRWidgetID</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price $19.99 </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This tiny gadget can fit inside Nike+ shoes or be plugged directly into an iPod. Using the Nike +iPod Wireless Sensor is a great way for an athletic Dad to track his workouts. Users have said this thing “works wonders.” To add a little more bang for your buck, Best Buy offers free shipping on all iPod accessories! </span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The “Gastronomically Adventurous” Dad</span></b></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Where: think geek </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: Bacon Hot Sauce</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/interests/zombies/e6ae/">http://www.thinkgeek.com/interests/zombies/e6ae/</a></span></div>
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Price: $7.99<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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This just might be your Dad’s dream come true. It’s bacon. It’s hot sauce. Where could you go wrong?<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Tourist Dad</span></b><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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Where: Overstock.com<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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What: National Geographic Guide to the National Parks of the United States<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rJw355Kr_E/T848itv6UgI/AAAAAAAAA4c/tkFQBAOrqRI/s1600/9781426203930.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3rJw355Kr_E/T848itv6UgI/AAAAAAAAA4c/tkFQBAOrqRI/s1600/9781426203930.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d00ff;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.overstock.com/Books-Movies-Music-Games/National-Geographic-Guide-to-the-National-Parks-of-the-United-States-Paperback/3268917/product.html">http://www.overstock.com/Books-Movies-Music-Games/National-Geographic-Guide-to-the-National-Parks-of-the-United-States-Paperback/3268917/product.html</a></span></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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Price: $16.32<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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If your Dad loves to read travel books or plan vacations (even if it’s only planning and never going) ;) he’ll love this. It is a National Parks guidebook & map on steroids. It claims to be the “up-to-the-minute book of its kind on the market today.” <span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The DIY Dad</span></b><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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Where: Lowe’s<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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What: Kobalt 29 Piece Double Drive Screwdriver Set<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price: $19.98</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">My sister, Manisha bought this for her husband & he absolutely loves it. It is a cool screwdriver that continues to screw in when you turn it forward or backward (how’s that for tool talk?). He’ll be able to get the job done in half the time. Maybe he’ll even let you play with it. ;)</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The iDad</span></b></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Where: Overstock.com </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: rooCASE Convertible Leather Case Cover for Apple iPad 2/ The new iPad 3</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.overstock.com/Electronics/rooCASE-Convertible-Leather-Case-Cover-for-Apple-iPad-2-The-new-iPad-3/5902145/product.html?rcmndsrc=2">http://www.overstock.com/Electronics/rooCASE-Convertible-Leather-Case-Cover-for-Apple-iPad-2-The-new-iPad-3/5902145/product.html?rcmndsrc=2</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price: $24.49</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This premium genuine leather case with an adjustable stand & magnetic flap closure will protect Dad’s precious iPad. If you are an iPad owner, you know that good covers are hard to find at a reasonable price. Because they can run pretty high I was very surprised to find that this one was under $30.00. Just make sure you don’t get the pink one. I know it’s cute but he probably won’t think so. </span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Wi-Fi Dad</span></b></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Where: Think Geek</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: Wi-Fi Detector Shirt</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price $19.99</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This shirt makes me smile. It is a shirt with a BUILT IN Wi-Fi detector. This is just crazy awesome! He doesn’t have to open his laptop or touch the “settings” app on his phone. All he has to do is look at his shirt to check for Wi-Fi. The only problem I foresee with this shirt is that he might not ever want to take it off, which may cause a stinky situation. Just a warning. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Card Playing Dad</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Where: ink garden</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: Dad’s Love Playing Cards</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #3d00ff;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.inkgarden.com/TemplateDetail.aspx?ProductID=4066&PK=b53baa0c-0d18-475c-badd-01a19bc5eaeb&TemplateID=5040">http://www.inkgarden.com/TemplateDetail.aspx?ProductID=4066&PK=b53baa0c-0d18-475c-badd-01a19bc5eaeb&TemplateID=5040</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price: $14.99-19.99</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">I’ve never seen anything like this: A standard size deck of cards that YOU get to make! YOU add the text and photos, and you can even customize the design. Can’t guarantee it will help his game but it’ll make him smile. Okay, that last line sounded kinda corny and QVC-ish, but you get the point.</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Star Wars Dad</span></b></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Where: think geek</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: Blade Runner Style LED Umbrella</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/gear/d163/?pfm=homepage_Featured_1_d163">http://www.thinkgeek.com/homeoffice/gear/d163/?pfm=homepage_Featured_1_d163</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price $14.99</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This umbrella is super unique just like he is. Get this; it’s an umbrella with a LED light up shaft! He will be the envy of all his Star Wars friends and love the attention. </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Driving Dad</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Where: Yankee Candle</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">What: Man Candles Car Jar</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.yankeecandle.com/detail/riding-mower/1237837">http://www.yankeecandle.com/detail/riding-mower/1237837</a></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Price: $2.99</span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">This is a new line Yankee Candle just released. The names & descriptions crack me up. A Dad on the go will probably love any one of these scents rather than ‘<i>midnight jasmine’,</i> I’m sure! The Riding Mower scent is described to be “Hot sun. Cool breeze. Summer scent of freshly cut grass.” They have other scents like First Down, 2x4 and Man Town. Yankee Candle is running a promo right now where you can buy 2 car jars and get1 free. These candles are going super fast and many are already sold out! So hurry over & order your “man candle.” </span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">Just a little FYI- All of Dainty Button’s Men’s Bow Ties, Pocket Squares and Lapel Flowers are under $22.00, and we all love some Dainty Button. <span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px color: #3d00ff; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/mens.html">http://www.daintybutton.com/mens.html</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6p1DfVr43c/T85B2tLqMcI/AAAAAAAAA5I/QEZtDYML2-I/s1600/36580_10150835164322175_506547174_10060371_1675320965_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-E6p1DfVr43c/T85B2tLqMcI/AAAAAAAAA5I/QEZtDYML2-I/s200/36580_10150835164322175_506547174_10060371_1675320965_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">With my nature-loving, techy Dad; soccer aficionado, bookworm husband; and baseball-crazed, 70’s music guru Father-in-Law, I understand all Dads are unique. Hopefully this list has helped you choose a gift for the one-of-a-kind Dad in your life.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0.0px;">xo- Mandy</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IblmPhFN1sk/T85CU6skg7I/AAAAAAAAA5Q/rPQz9jwuxeI/s1600/Mandy+Palma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IblmPhFN1sk/T85CU6skg7I/AAAAAAAAA5Q/rPQz9jwuxeI/s200/Mandy+Palma.jpg" width="160" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-10372091262298722872012-06-04T21:45:00.002-07:002012-06-04T21:45:22.946-07:00Father's Day Feature and Sweepstakes Giveaway<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xVGPHcf3XM/T82DqDGUPvI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/_maMCSPoZMg/s1600/DB+Father's+Day+Blog+Feature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5xVGPHcf3XM/T82DqDGUPvI/AAAAAAAAA3Y/_maMCSPoZMg/s320/DB+Father's+Day+Blog+Feature.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Father's Day is just around the corner and let's face it, they just don't get promoted as much as mom's do. We'd like to change that, which is why we're doing a special Father's Day feature this entire week. We have some wonderful things planned for you. I'm not sure if you've been following us on FB and Twitter but we put out a call for a creative blog team last week. There's so much talent and creativity out there and we would love to give our readers and followers one great variety when they read our blogs. The response we received was incredible. We have a fabulous team put together. They're working very hard to deliver a fun Father's Day featured week worth of blog postings. You're going to find gift ideas, activities, DIY's, humor and a guest blogging post from one special dad. Check in daily this week, as you're going to find some great things. In the meantime, we have a fun sweepstakes giveaway we're offering.</i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><i>Sweepstakes</i></b></span></div>
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<i>There's no sharing pictures on this one. It's that simple. </i></div>
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<b><i>Sweepstakes giveaway ends on Friday, June 8th. We will declare a winner by Monday, June 11th via email and the winner WILL receive their giveaway in time for Father's Day.</i></b></div>
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<i>We hope to see you this week during our fun filled Father's Day Feature!</i></div>
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<i>Charity and DB Team</i></div>
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<i>xoxo</i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-81934551981160740252012-06-02T15:54:00.004-07:002012-06-02T15:54:27.272-07:00DIY: Ice Cream Cake Pops<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-McR6cKIUxFY/T8qEdp_i3yI/AAAAAAAAAyU/iZLMtMnqA0I/s1600/DIY+Ice+Cream+Cake+Pops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="340" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-McR6cKIUxFY/T8qEdp_i3yI/AAAAAAAAAyU/iZLMtMnqA0I/s400/DIY+Ice+Cream+Cake+Pops.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>I scream, you scream, we all scream...</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>It's a DIY featuring fun Ice Cream Cake Pops!</i></b></span></div>
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<i>We have a fun little DIY for our followers and readers. We've also included one of our favorite red velvet recipes and a little baking trick that you might want to try. Who's ready? </i></div>
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<i>I saw this idea last year and absolutely fell in love with it. They're super easy to make and they look absolutely adorable for birthday parties, showers, holiday get together's, you name it. You'll be the talk of the party with these cute little treats! We attempted to do this DIY via vlog but the video didn't turn out very well and I promised this post earlier in the week on our FB page, so time is of the essence. We're going to be as detailed as possible in giving this tutorial. If you have questions about it feel free to email us at <b>daintybutton@yahoo.com.</b></i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Prep...</i></b></span></div>
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<i>1. Cake</i></div>
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<i>2. Icing</i></div>
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<i>3. Bowl (mix cake and a separate microwave safe bowl for candy melts)</i></div>
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<i>4. Spoon(s)</i></div>
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<i>5. Lollipop sticks</i></div>
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<i>6. Candy melts</i></div>
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<i>7. Candy dye (optional)</i></div>
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<i>8. Cake cones</i></div>
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<i>9. Red Sixlets or M & M's</i></div>
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<i>10. Sprinkles or candy toppers</i></div>
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<i>11. Vegetable oil or paramount crystals (optional)</i></div>
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<i>12. Foam board</i></div>
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<i>13. Wax paper</i></div>
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<i>In preparing to do these ice cream cake pops you're going to need a cake. Here's the simple steps...</i></div>
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<i>We ran out of red dye for red velvet cake so green it is. This picture is not <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button's</a>. We baked our cake just as this but did not have a picture (oops). </i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cipgd-GAzkw/T8qHxnf6VHI/AAAAAAAAAyg/NrP2lDjzsvU/s1600/making-green-velvet-cake-pops--500x333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cipgd-GAzkw/T8qHxnf6VHI/AAAAAAAAAyg/NrP2lDjzsvU/s320/making-green-velvet-cake-pops--500x333.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Once your cake is baked and COOLED. Make sure the cake is completely cooled before proceeding to this next step. You're going to crumble the cake up in a bowl. Goodbye pretty cake...</i></div>
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<i>Again, not <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button's</a> picture (obviously, as we're using green velvet cake and this is chocolate) but we wanted to offer visuals for this process. You're going to want to crumble the cake up as fine as you can. No need to put it through the blender, just a few minutes of crumbling will do. If you have kids involved in this DIY, they'll love this part.</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zyJddDWGkMA/T8qIy3M25UI/AAAAAAAAAyo/4IQWSOtotXM/s1600/Step1-600x450.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zyJddDWGkMA/T8qIy3M25UI/AAAAAAAAAyo/4IQWSOtotXM/s320/Step1-600x450.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Next, you're going to add your frosting. The frosting gives your cake pops the firmness it needs to roll them into balls and the creamy, truffle like taste you experience when you eat them. For every traditional size cake you're going to use <b>HALF</b> a tub of icing. What kind of icing? Any kind you choose. Normally, we do chocolate with chocolate, cream cheese with red velvet, etc. Butter cream, vanilla, cream cheese and chocolate are some good flavors to choose from but again, any type you prefer.</i></div>
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<i>Too much icing = too gooey and runny. You might as well have cake batter.</i></div>
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<i>Not enough icing = dry and crumbly, resulting in your cake balls not firming together.</i></div>
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<i>Half a tub of icing will give a good balance.</i></div>
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<i><b>NOTE: </b>Fruit based cakes are difficult to do cake pops.</i></div>
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<i>Again, not <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button's</a> photo. Haha! Sorry, this is sort of comical to me. I promise you'll see our photo's further in this post.</i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tzCztMceAYw/T8qLHXVpRgI/AAAAAAAAAyw/ifg6LOu9lc4/s1600/IMG_4239-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tzCztMceAYw/T8qLHXVpRgI/AAAAAAAAAyw/ifg6LOu9lc4/s320/IMG_4239-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>You're going to cream the icing and cake crumb mixture together until you get this....</i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>This IS our picture! Ha!</b></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_TZ2p_Sb3Q/T8qLdUlHiwI/AAAAAAAAAy4/Sd8Cwyj9nV8/s1600/582426_10150868780477175_506547174_10165431_1401069094_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N_TZ2p_Sb3Q/T8qLdUlHiwI/AAAAAAAAAy4/Sd8Cwyj9nV8/s320/582426_10150868780477175_506547174_10165431_1401069094_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>A little helpful note when doing cake pops, if you happen to have extra cake left over you can freeze the mixture up to a month in a sealed baggie (as pictured).</i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Rolling Cake Balls...</i></b></span></div>
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<i>Lay out a sheet of wax paper. When rolling cake balls, you're going to take a chunk about the size pictured. A good way of making sure you end up with smooth, firm cake balls is by kneading it back and form from hand to hand a few times (5-7 times) to create a smooth clump. You then start rolling until they are nice and smooth as pictured below.</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9wC8Ny_a2r0/T8qL1370vsI/AAAAAAAAAzI/zerVDeqdk80/s1600/295061_10150868808937175_506547174_10165553_194469411_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9wC8Ny_a2r0/T8qL1370vsI/AAAAAAAAAzI/zerVDeqdk80/s320/295061_10150868808937175_506547174_10165553_194469411_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzOqCXbA3Vw/T8qL0sRQfAI/AAAAAAAAAzA/cuGpb6kmDqY/s1600/540228_10150868805782175_506547174_10165547_871603011_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzOqCXbA3Vw/T8qL0sRQfAI/AAAAAAAAAzA/cuGpb6kmDqY/s320/540228_10150868805782175_506547174_10165547_871603011_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-349mcBQdlvE/T8qL3ohK4rI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/K2oUoZRICpQ/s1600/282687_10150868812312175_1255008405_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-349mcBQdlvE/T8qL3ohK4rI/AAAAAAAAAzQ/K2oUoZRICpQ/s320/282687_10150868812312175_1255008405_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Ice Cream Cones...</i></b></span></div>
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<i>So the question I'm asked when making these is, how do you get the cake balls on the ice cream cones and how do they fit? Well, here's the answer to that...</i></div>
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<i>You're going to need a box of sugar cones. I got this box at Target for around $1.99 so twelve ice cream cake pops comes out to about 16 cents each (for those on a party budget). </i></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p30NBqIJs04/T8qMrSTszMI/AAAAAAAAAzY/demqeNgsSY8/s1600/295004_10150868815642175_300639699_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p30NBqIJs04/T8qMrSTszMI/AAAAAAAAAzY/demqeNgsSY8/s320/295004_10150868815642175_300639699_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OqiOCmmy0Bs/T8qMtTotiVI/AAAAAAAAAzg/BCjuUWJoeZc/s1600/252750_10150868817527175_506547174_10165575_1473677653_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OqiOCmmy0Bs/T8qMtTotiVI/AAAAAAAAAzg/BCjuUWJoeZc/s320/252750_10150868817527175_506547174_10165575_1473677653_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>You're going to need a knife to cut the cones down, which is how you get the right size for the cake balls. A ridged knife works great in cutting the cones (as pictured).</i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iSzwQp-0wBQ/T8qMu8tcHgI/AAAAAAAAAzo/UObDl9mvyQk/s1600/196177_10150868832872175_1152169288_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iSzwQp-0wBQ/T8qMu8tcHgI/AAAAAAAAAzo/UObDl9mvyQk/s320/196177_10150868832872175_1152169288_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PLHYlj-vNC4/T8qMxqMeGrI/AAAAAAAAAzw/9O4v-Ral0oQ/s1600/252336_10150868834692175_1885193943_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PLHYlj-vNC4/T8qMxqMeGrI/AAAAAAAAAzw/9O4v-Ral0oQ/s320/252336_10150868834692175_1885193943_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>You're going to cut the top of the cone off not quite half though. When cutting, cut lightly as too much pressure will crack the entire cone.</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJfxbX4y5-M/T8qMzJaUzcI/AAAAAAAAAz4/mjFBpSPgrH0/s1600/398888_10150868841957175_827115370_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SJfxbX4y5-M/T8qMzJaUzcI/AAAAAAAAAz4/mjFBpSPgrH0/s320/398888_10150868841957175_827115370_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCfczBvz4XQ/T8qM0mAcnvI/AAAAAAAAA0A/EoDmiT6kbOY/s1600/389699_10150868859962175_506547174_10165705_675750918_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bCfczBvz4XQ/T8qM0mAcnvI/AAAAAAAAA0A/EoDmiT6kbOY/s320/389699_10150868859962175_506547174_10165705_675750918_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>Once cut off, shake the excess crumbs out of the cone.</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d7Upf2C5aXI/T8qM2otb-TI/AAAAAAAAA0I/prYTbomwQAE/s1600/380194_10150868861927175_1102851444_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d7Upf2C5aXI/T8qM2otb-TI/AAAAAAAAA0I/prYTbomwQAE/s320/380194_10150868861927175_1102851444_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>And you've got the base of your ice cream cake pops.</i></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjGICmhX72s/T8qM4OmNi4I/AAAAAAAAA0Q/uZhKgIyeOi0/s1600/598352_10150868865117175_1761163145_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IjGICmhX72s/T8qM4OmNi4I/AAAAAAAAA0Q/uZhKgIyeOi0/s320/598352_10150868865117175_1761163145_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>It's time to dip these babies...</i></b></span></div>
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<i>When doing any type of stand up cake pops, you're going to need something to prop your sticks on, in order for the cake pops to dry. This is where a foam board such as the one pictured is helpful. Sorry for the mess, we've used this several times. You can purchase these at your local craft store. The thicker the better.</i></div>
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<i>Candy is the other main element in making any type of cake pops. This is where a lot of people get frustrated when making cake pops because either the candy melts burn or clump. Here's a few helpful pointers:</i></div>
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<i>1. Get a good quality of candy melts. Wilton is good but burns very easily (just being honest). Ghirardelli, Bakers and chocolate bark from the grocery store are good choices.</i></div>
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<i>2. Melt in 60 second intervals. I usually melt mine for a total of about 2.5 minutes (two 60 second intervals and one 30 second)</i></div>
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<i>3. If you choose to go with the above suggested chocolate melts, they normally only come in white and milk chocolate. When dying your white candy melts, use OIL based food dyes. Gel paste and regular food dye WILL ruin your candy melts. When I say ruin, I'm not joking. Look for OIL based candy dye. These can be bought at craft stores (Michael's, Hobby Lobby) and if you have a confectionary supply store in your area, that's a great place to check.</i></div>
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<i>4. If your candy melt is thick after microwaving, you can use vegetable oil to thin it out. This is a great trick to get your money's worth and your candy melt to last longer. It also will not leave your cake pops with a 1 foot thick candy coating. Another thing you can use to thin candy melts out is <a href="https://www.slice-heaven.com/store/show/76-320V">paramount crystals</a>. </i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KX2WAZAkeaM/T8qN5wWRdoI/AAAAAAAAA0g/Lx6RYCuS2Ds/s1600/527689_10150868892272175_1243346371_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KX2WAZAkeaM/T8qN5wWRdoI/AAAAAAAAA0g/Lx6RYCuS2Ds/s320/527689_10150868892272175_1243346371_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>(We used pink but forgot to snap a pic before we threw the bottle away, so this is just an example of ours to show what kind of dyes to purchase)</i></div>
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<i>Now, we're going to dip and finish these little yummy treats off. You're going to use a cake pop stick but you'll only need one as this is only used for dipping and transferring to the cake cone. You can buy cake pop sticks at your local craft store. </i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KvXChkjtzik/T8qN_4JqHWI/AAAAAAAAA1A/NGYQGhWHMTI/s1600/547935_10150868976577175_613480028_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KvXChkjtzik/T8qN_4JqHWI/AAAAAAAAA1A/NGYQGhWHMTI/s320/547935_10150868976577175_613480028_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>You're going to coat the tip of your stick in the candy melt.</i></div>
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<i>Then transfer it to the cake ball. By coating the tip first, it allows the lollipop stick to go in smoother and the cake ball won't crumble.</i></div>
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<i>You're then going to dip...</i></div>
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<i>Make sure you cover the entire cake ball...</i></div>
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<i>Then you're going to transfer it to the cone...</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzS-ZZ9K3WM/T8qSxndJz0I/AAAAAAAAA10/eGqV9x1nzLk/s1600/294899_10150869120132175_1334030759_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzS-ZZ9K3WM/T8qSxndJz0I/AAAAAAAAA10/eGqV9x1nzLk/s320/294899_10150869120132175_1334030759_n.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<i>Once you've got it on the cone, you're going to slowly pull the lollipop stick out...</i></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQ-I5BPU-m8/T8qSy78k7fI/AAAAAAAAA18/U4HimHmqtoE/s1600/554318_10150869121542175_450631327_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQ-I5BPU-m8/T8qSy78k7fI/AAAAAAAAA18/U4HimHmqtoE/s320/554318_10150869121542175_450631327_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>We cover the top with excess candy melt to cover the little hole but also to allow the ice cream cone effect and let the candy melts drizzle down the cone.</i></div>
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<i>We're now going to add our sprinkles. Any kind of sprinkles work but we prefer candy toppers because they're chunkier and people associate these as an ice cream topping.</i></div>
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<i>Here is where your foam board comes into play. You're going to slowly and gently stick the ice cream cone in the foam, so it can dry. Be careful because you don't want to crumble the cone.</i></div>
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<b><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Topping Effect...</span></i></b></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span">Here's how to get the chocolate topping effect on the ice cream cake pops. You're going to use milk (or dark) chocolate melt and red sixlets. The sixlets are the "cherries". You can also use M & M's but they lay a little flat and we prefer the cherry definition. Let's be honest, it really makes these treats pop.</span></i></div>
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<i>With a spoon, lightly put a couple drops of chocolate on the top. Letting it drizzle down gives it a nice touch.</i></div>
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<i>While the chocolate is still wet, add your "cherry". </i></div>
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<i>Set on your foam board and let dry. Now, you've got yourself some fun, yummy and pretty inexpensive treats for yourself, a party or gift! </i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Our favorite red velvet recipe...</i></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b><i>A little baking trick I was taught a long time ago and it WORKS!</i></b></span></div>
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<i>I was taught a little baking trick a long time ago and my family and I use it every time we bake cakes. Everybody always asks us why our cakes are always so moist. Here's why...we substitute our vegetable oil for mayo. Yes, mayo. It may sound gross but it works (I swear by it)! I dare you to try it!</i></div>
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Ingredients</h2>
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<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 1/2 cups sugar</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon baking soda</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon salt</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon cocoa powder</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1 1/2 cups vegetable oil <b>(REPLACE WITH MAYO)</b></span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 cup buttermilk, room temperature</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 large eggs, room temperature</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">2 tablespoons red food coloring (we use the entire bottle of coloring; it gives it a true red coloring)</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon white distilled vinegar</li>
<li class="ingredient" style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 23px; list-style-image: initial; list-style-position: initial; list-style-type: none; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; outline-color: initial; outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</li>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px;">Mix together and bake at 350 degrees. Enjoy!</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 23px;"><i>This DIY is courtesy of <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">Dainty Button</a></i></span></div>
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<i>Charity and DB Team</i></div>
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<i>xoxo</i></div>
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<br /></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-6634450105191402882012-05-30T01:53:00.005-07:002012-05-30T01:53:54.390-07:00Etsy vs. Website<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ox-Imde-WPg/T8XfudnFZyI/AAAAAAAAAyA/p8Q9Mf-Fqio/s1600/etsy+screenshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ox-Imde-WPg/T8XfudnFZyI/AAAAAAAAAyA/p8Q9Mf-Fqio/s400/etsy+screenshot.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><b>vs.</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-it5FwDnOZow/T8Xf5H57E6I/AAAAAAAAAyI/GNWF9A2kY-I/s1600/DB+website+screenshot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-it5FwDnOZow/T8Xf5H57E6I/AAAAAAAAAyI/GNWF9A2kY-I/s400/DB+website+screenshot.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ok, I'm finally getting around to blogging this. The past week has been a whirlwind of events. It's really hard to think that a little over a week ago, we were launching our brand new website. And what a launch it was! Within the first 3.5 days, we had almost 10,000 hits. Yes, my friends, we're pretty happy about that. It's such a blessing! For those readers and followers that are new to the world of <a href="http://www.facebook.com/daintybutton">Dainty Button</a> and are curious as to where we were before our website launch, you should be very well informed by the time you read this post. We've had an etsy shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/DaintyButton?ref=si_shop">Dainty Button Etsy Shop</a> for over two years. We've had nothing but success on etsy and hope to continue to do so. So, why did we launch a website if etsy has been so successful? We're expanding and a lot of customers enjoy a website purchasing experience more than etsy. </div>
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<b>So, what's so different about etsy than a website?</b></div>
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1. Etsy is a marketplace for all things vintage and handmade.</div>
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2. Requires a profile in order to purchase/sell.</div>
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3. You can leave/receive feedback.</div>
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4. You find very unique, one of a kind items you may not find on other websites.</div>
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<b>A website offers...</b></div>
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1. Convenient transaction process</div>
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2. Easy access for clientele.</div>
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3. No required profile or sign in.</div>
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4. User friendly options such as drop down boxes for sizes, colors, etc., and other payment options besides PayPal with one click of a button.</div>
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5. Quantity is unlimited as long as it's in stock.</div>
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6. One stop shop as you can easily click on different sections of the shop, a link to our blog, our commercial photo shoot gallery, size chart, policies and "about us".</div>
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<b>What's the similarities?</b></div>
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It all comes down to which you prefer as your shopping experience. We carry the same product on each site, except for shoes and blouses. Etsy does not allow us to carry any items that are not handmade (something to think about if you're considering opening up an etsy shop), therefore you'll find these particular items on our website <a href="http://www.daintybutton.com/">daintybutton.com</a>. Our prices, shipping and policies are the same on both sites. They mirror one another. Some clientele enjoy the etsy experience and some prefer the convenience of a website. Our goal is to direct our clientele to our website but our etsy shop will be open indefinitely and you can find our merchandise and product in both places. We will offer different sales on both sites in the future, so that's something you might want to keep an eye on.</div>
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If you've been thinking about opening an etsy shop or website, here is a link that might help you <a href="http://howtosellhandmadecrafts.com/etsy-vs-your-own-personal-website/">http://howtosellhandmadecrafts.com/etsy-vs-your-own-personal-website/</a>. This might also allow you to understand the process behind purchasing from an etsy shop or website. </div>
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We hope this has been informative for you and answered any questions you might have about either site. Stop by and visit us at either place. We're sort of in a bicoastal cyber world and love guests in both homes.</div>
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<i>Charity and DB Team</i></div>
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<br /></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-444217557810634697.post-16610715595946040302012-05-26T23:12:00.002-07:002012-05-26T23:12:16.332-07:00Holiday Food Recipe: Momma Doe's Hot Trash Mix<div style="text-align: center;">
Do you have that one snack or meal as a kid that you remember? Maybe it was your favorite? Well, there's a particular snack that I remember loving when I was a kid. When living in Oklahoma, we'd visit my parent's best friends often and my aunt Doe would always have the best snacks in her kitchen. The coolest mason jars, cans and containers of candy, snacks and trail mix. The trail mix was one of my all time favorite's. It was that perfect salty, spicy mix that had all of the really good stuff in it. This was one of the highlights of our trips to their house. I've attempted to do this trail mix several times since living in California and although I've found some good recipes, nothing has compared to aunt Doe's. I decided to ask her for her recipe (I'm not sure why I didn't do that in the first place over the past few attempts). It's a holiday weekend and our church is having a picnic Monday, in which everybody is contributing something. So guess what I'm taking? Yep, you guessed it. I figured this will be a great munchie treat. She gave me permission to share her recipe and I promise, you'll love it! I hope everybody has a wonderful Memorial Day and may we remember who fights for our freedom. God bless America!</div>
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<b><i>Momma Doe's Hot Trash Mix</i></b></div>
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Mix in a large stainless steel bowl that you can bake in and set aside...</div>
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5 cups of Cheerios</div>
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5 cups of stick pretzels (broken up in the bag)</div>
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16 cups of Corn Chex Cereal</div>
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3 lbs of mixed nuts</div>
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On the stove top in a saucepan, combine the following ingredients and bring to a boil point...</div>
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2 Tbsp of Tabasco Sauce</div>
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3 Tbsp granulated garlic powder</div>
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1 Tbsp of celery salt</div>
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2 Tbsp of Cayenne red pepper</div>
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2 Tbsp of Accent</div>
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1 lb of Land O'Lakes Butter</div>
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2/3 cup of vegetable oil</div>
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5 Tbsp of Worcestershire Sauce</div>
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Pour over the dry mix left in the stainless steel bowl. Mix very well.</div>
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Bake at 200 degrees for 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes. </div>
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<b><i>Enjoy!!</i></b></div>
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<b><i>Charity</i></b></div>
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<b><i>xoxo</i></b></div>Dainty Buttonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05915724972697124126noreply@blogger.com0