Feeling So Organized!

OK, I have a confession.  I am a total procrastinator, and my taxes are no exception.  Almost every year, I file for a *gulp* extension and don't end up having my numbers together until OCTOBER!! I feel guilty every year about it.  This year is going to be different though, because I have it all done today!!

Alas, I cannot take full credit for completing this huge feat--I had a secret weapon.  I cannot thank Holly of Accounting Spot enough for creating her genius Etsy/Ebay accounting software.  No matter how much you sold last year on Etsy, Ebay or both, she makes it a breeze to download and organize your income and expenses in a streamlined and simple fashion, and I LOVE being able to see a clear breakdown and report by month, quarter or year.  I had a quick question and she answered right away.

I love her software so much, that I signed up to be an affiliate!  If you are interested in a copy, please click here to visit Accounting SPOT. 

{{update: looks like Holly has posted all of her downloads for FREE for a limited time.  Scoop 'em up while you can!}}

Using Feminine Words that Sell

I came across a post that I thought would be really helpful for all of you, especially with Valentine's day right around the corner.  This Copyblogger article discusses how to write copy with "feminine words".  I especially love the examples at the bottom where she changes a plain headline into a feminine one.  Enjoy!

{{Spicy Hot Ruffled Apron by Etsy seller Charm School}}

Haiti Earthquake

I am so saddened by the devastation that the people of Haiti have experienced this week.  Having a young child myself, I hurts to even think about the pain and sadness that so many parents and children are going through right now.  I have personally chosen to donate through UNICEF, because I know that their primary focus is children and families.

I will also be donating 100% of the proceeds from sales of my best-selling Etsy success guides from 8PM PST 1/18 - 8PM PST 1/20 to UNICEF USA's relief efforts in Haiti. Thank you for helping me support this important cause.

Coupon Co-op

I saw this cute little ad today and clicked on it - turns out IndieSmiles.com is coordinating a giant co-op ad campaign. For only $2, you can feature a black-friday weekend coupon on her site. She is doing a Project Wonderful ad campaign for the event, so hopefully it will generate some traffic! Check out this page for more information.

Etsy 2009 Gift Guides

Would you love to be featured in Etsy's popular Gift Guides? The editor's of this year's guides are accepting nominations right now, so if you haven't already, head over to this thread in the Etsy forums and nominate your shop or an item in your shop to be included this season. I hope all of you are featured!

(Swarovski Rivoli Montana Blue Crystal Pendant Necklace by jFrances Design. Thanks Jillian!)

Time Your Listings to Peak Hours — Get More Sales

Everything Etsy has an interesting post up about timing your listings to get more sales. They list the exact time frames that they believe are the best for getting more views and sales. I am curious if your experiences match up to the advice given here. What are your favorite times to list?

Another note - I am running low on product pictures to feature along with my blog posts. If you want to be featured, or I missed you this time around (sorry if I did, was just an oversight!) please send over your shop information to my email. Thanks!

we have a winner!

Congrats to kiddo (Suzanne Gregg) for winning Amanda's giveaway!! I have given Amanda your info and she should be in touch with you shortly.

--Jordan