Meet michiganhemp

1. What is your craft of choice, and how long have you been doing that?

Everything hemp is my passion and I've been making hemp items for almost 7 years. I really try to make hemp items that are 'out of the box', so to speak. I want to take hemp to the next level...where hippie and beauty meet.

2. How did you get started?

My husband and I were at a small craft show in Mackinaw City, Michigan. While checking everything out, I found the cutest little hemp necklace that just screamed BUY ME. It was simple in design and made with all wooden beads, but it was adorable. When I reached for the price tag, I almost choked! It was wayyy over priced. Don't get me wrong, I completely understand the value of handmade, but this one was almost ridiculous. It was then and there that I decided that I could make better items from better supplies and sell them at better prices. The hubby and I stopped at the craft store on the way home, and I've been making hemp items ever since. :)

3. What is your inspiration?

My inspiration comes to me from many different angles. Some days, it is the color of the hemp, other days it is the pendant, and still other times it is simply random mixing of beads and colors that finally turn into something amazing.

4. How long have you been on Etsy?

I joined Etsy in February of this year, and I have absolutely loved every day since!

5. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Wow. This is a tough one for me. I have so many different interests that my life could literally take many different paths. At this point in time, I would have to say that I will be working from home, have my Bachelor's degree in either Graphic Arts or Visual Communications, and be a very successful Etsy shop owner. :)

6. What is the most challenging thing about having an online business?

This would have to be the marketing. It is extremely hard to get seen, and then to get a sale after being seen is even harder.

7. What is the most rewarding thing about having an online business?

Knowing that someone likes my handmade items as much as I do is the best feeling in the world. Usually, I tend to devalue myself, so knowing that someone is willing to buy one of my items is a big deal to me.

8. How does your internet business fit into your life? Is it your job or do you have another job as well?

Etsy is my top priority...until class starts next week. As far an another job, raising 5 boys, tending to the man of my dreams, running an online Etsy shop, and earning my bachelor's is about all I can handle right now! lol

9. When you are not crafting, how do you spend your time?

I spend a ton of time getting to know other Etsians, and attending my boys' sporting events. I would have to say that is how I spend the majority of my time when I'm not doing homework, or creating something new.

10. Are there any links you’d like to share?

FACEBOOK: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cheboygan-MI/Michigan-Hemp/85051183096

TWITTER: http://twitter.com/michiganhemp

Bonus: How do you push yourself to stay ahead of the game with your shop?

I don't believe that I am ever ahead of the game, but if I can keep myself above water and still swimming...I feel I'm doing great! :0)