LaurenNicole Gifts & Handmade Jewelry

Hand stamped silver jewelry, personalized silver Jewelry, monogrammed gifts and accessories are hand made to order by Lauren Nicole Gifts. Each and every piece is designed and custom made to order just for you.

1. Tell us about your business, how you got started & how long you’ve been at it:

It all started when I tried to open a craft store in fourth grade with my best friend. We spent weeks sewing and making little purses and crafts. We then set up a store and waited for customers….and waited….and waited. We couldn’t figure out why we didn’t get any customers. I am pretty sure it had something to do with the craft store being located in the back yard and zero advertising.

It wasn’t until years later that I learned the concept of advertising while studying to become an accountant (the back yard failure finally made sense). I finished school and spent many years working as an accountant and following my husband around with his Army career. In 2004 I decided to quit Corporate America and follow my dreams. I started selling monogrammed and hand sewn gifts while learning how to make jewelry. I now spend most of my time designing and making custom jewelry and I couldn’t be happier.

2. What are some of your favorite items that you sell?

I love making the footprint and hand print jewelry that is made with actual footprints and hand prints. I also like to make necklaces using kid’s artwork.

3. Where do you get your inspiration for new products for new items?

I usually come up with new ideas while I am making jewelry for customers. My customers are also a great source of inspiration and give me lots of new ideas.

4. Do you have anything new for spring? We want to know!

I am working on new hand stamped silver bangle bracelets and rings and hope to have them ready soon. One of the bangles I am working on will have room for 80 letters so that customers can personalize it with children’s names or a quote.

5. What one tip do you have for others who are thinking about starting their own businesses or are just starting out?

Take your time and really look at your costs. It is very easy to spend way too much money in the beginning and get into debt. I think the best way to start is to sell on Etsy and grow from there.

Fusion of Color Cosmetics

Fusion of Color Cosmetics are created from real minerals taken directly from the earth. These minerals are then processed into a fine powder and mixed with natural inorganic colors to produce a wide variety of colors. It does not matter what skin tone you have, from very light porcelain to a dark undertone and every shade in between, there is a mineral cosmetic that can perfectly match your skin. Minerals offer very good coverage that makes you feel like you aren’t wearing makeup at all.

1. Tell us about your business, how you got started & how long you’ve been in business.

We have been in business since 2003. Fusion of Color Cosmetics started out on a search to find a mineral makeup that didn’t itch or make us look like we were glowing. After a year of research, lots of trial and error, we found our perfect formula. Our mineral makeup is formulated in small batches to ensure freshness and consistent color. Fusion of Color has colors and textures for everyone, no matter what skin tone you are.

2. What are some of your favorite items that you sell?

Well that is a hard one because we love all of our products. Our foundations are wonderful, not chalky, not shiny or with too much sparkle, they are natural looking without looking heavy and cakey on your skin, They look natural! Of course we can’t forget Aura Lusion Diamond Powder. It is like the icing on the cake. This product makes you look airbrushed and flawless. Our eyeshadows and blushes are the most beautiful colors and textures that you will find in the market place.

3. Where do you get your inspiration for new products or items?

Fashion trends. I listen to makeup artists talk about what they look for in a product or what products they want or use. I try to bring these to the consumer.

4. Do you have anything new for spring? We want to know!

For Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter, we always do 1 or 2 new collections that have eye shadows, blush, and sometimes a highlighter and matching lipstick and gloss. This way you have a whole collection that works together.