Thursday, January 8, 2009

Guest Writer ~ The_Vintage_Pearl





I feel so blessed to have a job that allows me to work from home and also provides me with a much needed creative outlet. I'm a wahm of 4 little ones, ages 7, 5, 4 and 6 months, and I love being a Mom. I began selling on eBay a few years ago as a way to bring in a few extra dollars- my sister in law started making custom clothes and I, since I couldn't sew a stitch, started playing around with making jewelry to match her outfits. I really enjoyed it, which was somewhat surprising since at the time I didn't wear much jewelry besides my wedding rings and an occasional pair of earrings!




I think the hardest thing about my job is finding a "balance" between work and family. I have 4 kids, a husband, lots of laundry and a house to keep up with as well as jewelry orders and daily emails to answer. Trying to stay on top of everything can be overwhelming and I have found that most of the time I'm either caught up on jewelry orders and emails, but my house is messy and we're eating out alot, or my house is clean with hot meals on the table but the business has fallen behind.






It can become quite challenging, especially with the baby who doesn't understand "give Mommy just 3 more minutes"! I try to plan ahead and schedule out the day and I work alot in the evenings when my husband is home. I'm thankful for a supportive husband who does what he can to help, like taking the kids away from the house so I can have some uninterrupted time.






Most days I get the boys up and ready for school and Ryan drives them. I grab some coffee and sit down to answer emails until the girls are awake and ready for breakfast- some days I may have an hour, some days I may have 2 minutes! I try to get emails answered and make a list of orders and then I work off and on throughout the day. We play and/or run errands in the morning and then while they rest after lunch I check emails again and work on the orders list. I pick up the boys from school at 3 and don't even try to work again until after dinner (except for checking emails- if I don't keep checking then they can really pile up!) Evening work depends on what's going on with the family- we are a typically busy family with basketball, soccer or football practices as well as church and school functions- and I try really hard not to cut into family time.






One thing that has really helped me is several months ago I moved all of my supplies down to the kitchen cupboards and I stamp on the kitchen counter! Now I can work with the kids in eyesight anytime I need to :) The only downside is that I have to clean it all up when I'm done or else we have no kitchen counter!!!






I love being a wahm and am so thankful to all of my supportive family, friend and customers!


Erin would like to do a giveaway for the blog readers. All you have to do is leave her a comment and you will be entered to win the beautiful ring pictured below. It is a "Pearl Nest Ring", made with a large Swarovski pearl wrapped in Sterling Silver, and you can chose between a size 7 or 8.




***Check back next Thursday to see who the winner is!***

129 comments:

sonaja321 said...

Wow, I don't know you get so much done with 4 kids! I love all your designs and that ring is absolutely stunning!

Christy Peake said...

I have four kids too and it was like I was writing your post. Something is always "waiting" to be finished at my house! Your designs are beautiful and I'm sure you're just as beautiful a wife and mother even though, if you're like me, most days don't feel that way. LOL Wishing you "just three more minutes" at some point today... Thanks, Christy

Anonymous said...

Hi Erin!!

I completely understand your life girl!! I have 5 kiddos with the youngest being just over a year old. Whew! Your story is MY story too. so cool!
I have loved your stuff ever since you began on ebay. I had bid on that AMAZING ring before but sadly, I was outbid :(

Thanks for sharing your sweet story!

Susan

Tracy said...

GORGEOUS work Erin! I always love looking at your amazing jewels!

mikeamanda said...

pearls are lovely!

Elizabeth said...

Love it!! I have been looking at buying this ring for a while now!

Rachel said...

I'm so excited you've added the nest ring back! You do such great things - not only in your work, but with your family, and it shows!

Christielulu said...

I absolutely love this ring and keep showing it to my husband, but he hasn't taken the hint yet. I love your photography and your jewlery style.

Anonymous said...

You are so talented!

Jessica
www.MomShots.com

Cary Hairbows said...

Stunning~~the ring AND your incredible talent!

Anonymous said...

Very pretty ring! I'm so glad to know that I'm not the only WAHM will a very full and crazy schedule. Keep up the great work!

Cindi said...

I am so inspired by you Erin! I just ordered a stamping set myself after always drooling over your creations. This will be a new adventure for me as I usually just make bows and boutique children's clothing. I have 2 DD's myself and really respect your ability to get it all done. God Bless you and all your ventures! *Cindi*

Katy said...

OH!!!! I would LOVE to win this!!!! I Love that ring!!! Erin's stuff is beautiful and she is so talented. She is one of the first blogs I started reading when I came to blogging!!! Thank you for this chance! :)

Cassie said...

I'm seriously amazed at how you balance everything! And your work is beautiful!!

Anonymous said...

Wow Erin! You lead a very busy life but you are so forunate to have a wonderful family.

My Daily Circus said...

I have been asking for this ring now Erin-Please please I hope I win..that would be not my luck but this is my fav piece of your I think!

Tuesday Girl said...

I have three kids and I am debating about having a 4th. I just love your simple designs!

Erinn
tuesdayef (at) aol dot com

Charmingdesigns said...

I would love to win your precious ring! I really don't know how you do it girl!!! I tip my hat to you! Laurie

Betty said...

I love this ring! It's so beautiful and elegant.

little erin said...

oh pick me! pick me! pick me!

does that sound too desperate?

so glad you're making this ring again, erin.

from one erin to another: pick me!!! ;)

erin

Michelle said...

I've been a big fan of your work for a while now and your Names On A Chain necklace is my default jewelry most days. Thanks so much for the chance to win!

Kristofer said...

Love the ring! Your designs are just so beautiful and fun! I ordered a little necklace from you for my neice and it was darling! Thanks, Kristen

Kristofer said...

Love the ring! Your designs are just so beautiful and fun! I ordered a little necklace from you for my neice and it was darling! Thanks, Kristen

Karen~ said...

Erin designs beautiful jewelry. I love this pearl ring but then I love all her things.

Karen~

Natalie said...

pearl is my birthstone...love 'em!

Anonymous said...

I wish I could say that I plan to give this ring to some much-more-deserving-than-my-humble-self friend or family member ... but really, who are we kidding? I WANT IT FOR MYSELF!!! LOL!

(Pickmepickmepickpickme ....)

Anonymous said...

I love Erin's work...as a working mom, I can totally relate to her struggles to find a balance!
kkight@atlanticbb.net

Megan said...

I love browsing your pearl jewelry! I think I need some, regardless of the outcome of the giveaway :-)

Becky said...

I absolutely love my cup of love necklace that I got for christmas...would love to have this ring too!

phoebeslanding said...

Wow, Erin! I don't think my hubby would love for me to move my business to the kitchen - lol! You've got a wonderful talent there... keep it up as long as you can :)!
Shelly

Kelley said...

Wow, that is a great story! Having a baby of my own, I always wonder how others get it all done:) I love the ring and would love to be wearing it!

Christina @ Route Bliss said...

Love it (as well as everything else you make)!

Two Little Lambs said...

The pearl ring is so... pretty. I love all the designs-so delicate.

Brooke said...

I would be honored to wear this beautiful ring! I have been eyeing it for awhile! I just love your work Erin!

Thank you so much for the chance!

;-)

Unknown said...

Love getting to hear a little bit more about your day. Was wondering how you get it all done:)
Love the ring!

Jenn said...

Great interview Erin! I think I already knew most of that though ;) But that's because I stalk your blog!

Love ya!
take a bow Jenn

Hair Candy said...

Erin I love your stuff!!

Unknown said...

It's such a gorgeous ring and tried to bid before but it was gone! Can you let those of us that don't win when you will sell more of these?

Many thanks, and God Bless!

Lisa-Marie H.

Two Boo Boos said...

I'm a SAHM and wish I could be a WAHM .. not having to go back to a 'regular' job. I'm happy to hear of women that find something they love and make money at it to boot! Good for you!

Kimberly said...

Yay! I have admired this ring for so long!

Laura said...

The ring is gorgeous... wish i had that talent! When I get home I barely have enough energy to make dinner and bathe the kids... maybe when they are older.

Stephanie said...

I just found you while looking at Patty Young's blog and absolutely love your work. I am also a stay at home mom and have 3 kids. God has blessed me with the ability to sew and create things that has led to the beginning of a small "at home" business. You inspire me to keep working and knowing that God will see you through anything. Thanks so much for your story and talent :)
Stephanie

Becky said...

Pearls are my fave right now cuase that's my sons birthstone, love them!

Deeny said...

I love your stuff. The ring is so pretty.

Allison O said...

You do some really great work! You custom made a necklace for me this past May and I have gotten so many compliments on it and people want to know where I got such a unique necklace.

Anonymous said...

i heart this ring. seriously. thank you for sharing!!

Lee Anne said...

Love your beautiful designs and I am so glad I discovered you!

Price Peeps said...

Just happened upon this blog today. LOVE the "Pearl Nest Ring"! I have four kidlets as well...more power to ya sista!!!

Anonymous said...

Love it! I just love all your designs!! I hope I win.

vlgos@yahoo.com
TXRosebud

Anonymous said...

Erin your ring is just wonderful. I hope you start to feeling better so you can have a wonderful vacation.
Have a great vacation.
Nancy
grandmabell06@yahoo.com

Mom2Da'Gorgeouses said...

Goodness!! I only have 2 and I'm sweating just reading how you juggle everything, and now you're starting a photography business?! YOU ROCK!!

That ring is simply beautiful!

Hugs & Blessings!

Laura said...

I purchased my first Vintage Pearl necklace several months ago, and have been a fan ever since! Erin does great work and she is a wonderful inspiration to all wahm's!

I would love to win this ring :)
Thanks for featuring her on your blog!

julie said...

I love your jewelry, and am amazed you get anything done!

Jess said...

I totally understand your dilemmas, Erin, about keeping up with work and family. I have decided to slow down a bit just for that exact reason. Not because I have to keep a perfect house, but because my son and husband DO need clean underwear to wear to school and work! LOL. Love the ring.

Denissa said...

I love your jewelry! You are truly an ispiration :)
Would love to win! But if not will definitely be purchasing one :)

Simply Stacie said...

I'd love to win this!

Unknown said...

I love your work, Erin! I bought a moon necklace for my four year old daughter from your Etsy shop last fall and she wears it daily!

That ring is gorgeous, as well. :) I always enjoy seeing your new designs.

Carolyn G said...

THat ring is so beautiful. I love it.

Kori said...

I am a picky jewlery gal LOL But yours is so adorable- Perfect for every type person from fancy nancy to plain jane hehe!

Anonymous said...

you have a lot in your plate. but you still manage to make it work. good for you and good for us because we get to enjoy your jewerly.

Anonymous said...

LOVE the ring! :-)

Chelsi said...

Love this ring! It would be PERFECT for one of my best friend's birthdays that is coming up in March... I've purchased three baby spoons from you late last year and I was so impressed with them! The parents of both babies that received them LOVED THEM! I am Christina's (from "Peanut's Page") sister-in-law so I have also seen her beautiful necklace that she won from you late last year as well... She was one of the recipients of a precious spoon with "camden" on it. Anyway, would love this ring! One of these times I'll buy something for MYSELF!!! :0)

Amy Priddy said...

LOL Erin! You could have been describing me. I wish I could clone myself. Either way, I always feel guilty (either the house is neglected, or the business). I love your stuff and would love to win this ring. Keep up the great work!

Amy

candy said...

Erin...you are amazing to get it all done. My hat is off to you. Love the ring!

Sarahbeth said...

As a work at home mom of 4 with a sewing buisness, my day runs a lot like yours. I'm happy others are as crazy/reliant on Grace as I am!

Anonymous said...

Oh Erin, I'm one of your faithful blog groupies, following from your site. And I always try, try, try to win one of your pieces of jewelry. Maybe one of these days, sigh... Christine Mc.

Liz said...

I love your jewerly. I hope you get to feeling better as well. It almost sounds liek strep throat.

Eve said...

I love everything Erin makes (I am wearing my Vintage Pearl necklace right now!). I have been eyeing these rings for awhile and would love to win one!

EB said...

Beautiful! I love your designs!
emmarleed[at]hotmail[dot]com

Elizabeth said...

the ring is beautiful =)

Infarrantly Creative said...

I love her nest ring it is soooo cute as are her precious kiddos.

Deanna said...

I'm a huge fan of Erin's work and would love to win this stunning wrapped ring!

Amy said...

I so love that ring. I actually bought one from you for my best friend and have always wanted one for myself too, but it is so hard buying things for yourself when you're living on a budget...your work is stunning and I just LOVE the ring!

Stacey Moore said...

i really love all of erin's designs! her blog is a daily read of mine! she also takes great pictures!

thanks!
moore.g@insideconnect.net

Jaime said...

Erin...you are amazing! And as always, LOVE your work!

Bitsy (aka Elizabeth) said...

Wow is right with 4 kids! I read your blog daily and am amazed at what all you do. I LOVE this ring!

Bitsy

skatey katie said...

i remember when all my (five) kids were tiny i used to get creative at eleven at night. these days they let me find time during the day.
love your creations erin - rachie and i get heaps of comments about our flower necklaces.
mwah X

Laura said...

My sister gave me the simple love with a copper heart necklace for Christmas. I love it! I've gotten so many compliments on my necklace.

Heather said...

I love your jewelry! I'm a single mommy and I have a six month old too! His name is Easton and he is the light of my life. You are an inspiration. I'm still trying to make it as "stay at home mommy", hopefully it works out. Your blog is great and you are wonderful!
xoxo
~Heather

gregandmindy3 said...

I absolutely love your work it is so unique!!! I am trying to decide on a mothers necklace right now, but there are so many great ones to chose from. Thanks, Mindy.

Kari said...

We are about to have our first baby and I am so excited to get one of your necklaces to celebrate her new little life! Now just to choose which one!

Anonymous said...

Erin,

As always, your work & your story are fantaastic. I hope I'm the lucky one this time.

Diana
Beauties4Cuties@aol.com

Anonymous said...

I love this ring and all your beautiful items! Your photos rock also. I have gotten so many compliments from my Christmas pics thanks to you! Looking forward to many more things and time with Vintage Pearl! Way to go Erin! Nicole Bish

Unknown said...

Absolutely gorgeous! Love the ring and the necklaces.

kissyjensen at gmail dot com

angela said...

As a stay at home mom I can fully appreciate all of the work that Erin accomplishes...and the outcome is always beautiful. I absolutely love the nesting pearl ring, so thanks for a chance to win!

Amy said...

beautiful work, erin. i could go broke buying everything on your etsy sight. this pearl ring is gorgeous & i'd love to win one.

Jodi said...

great post - I embroider from home (as well as keeping the books for our construction business) so I know all about being caught up in one area and behind in the other or vice versa! Love this ring - would be a great win!

Anonymous said...

You are an inspiration in my day when you can work with 4 children and I just about pull my hair out with one!!! LOL! Your designs are beautiful - you have been an etsy fav since I started.

Unknown said...

Lovely...just lovely. I used to own a business called Moonlight Designs. I did all my work by Moonlight because that's when my kiddos and hubby would be in bed and I could create. I think now I should run a business called Kitchen Counter Designs as I work there more often...those late nights are no more. I'm too pooped by 10:30PM.

Lindsey said...

SO beautiful! You are very very blessed to be able to create such beautiful jewelry and be home with your family! :-)

ladyufshalott at yahoo.com

steph said...

Creativity really boosts my mood! Thanks for sharing your love for creating and inspiring me!

Niki Jones said...

Simply Stunning.
3 of my 4 sons birthstones are Pearls. I have always wanted a Pearl for that very reason. I always look, but nothing jumps out at me. Your ring, JUMPS off the page & into my heart. You have gift.

Niki x

Dana said...

Amazing jewelry and beautiful family!!! I can't wait to keep reading!

amelia said...

I wanna win! ;o)

Anonymous said...

Wow there are a lot of comments! That's testimony to how rockin' your jewelry is...LOL! I love your designs and this ring is so pretty. It's nice to hear a bit about how you juggle everything too, WAHM's are a special breed. :)

Anonymous said...

Oh my word, I LOVE THIS. Hoping I win :)!!

jodi at jodimichelle dot com

Anonymous said...

Everyone needs a pearl in their lifetime! Beautiful creations you have~
ashlomb at yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I love your jewelry!

Gumdrop*Shop said...

Erin - I love your designs- have purchased some too ;) They are just as gorgeous in person!!!! I wish we all had more time in the day.

Heather's House said...

I love that ring! What a great chance to try to win it!

stormiedaisy said...

beautiful ring...I have 3 children of my own and my husband has 3 children that we have every other week...I can certainly appreciate having a large family!!

Anonymous said...

I LOVE the ring. Very beautiful. It was fun to read how you combine work and family life.

Anonymous said...

I hope it's not too late to leave a comment for the ring. I've been looking at these rings since before Christmas and they are amazing...what a delicate setting and design. I love to wear outward expressions of my inner heart and the pearl represts wisdome to me. I could use some of that as I plan a wedding for the fall...yikes...too much to do and decide. Good luck and thanks.

Ashley H.

ogarac said...

I love this ring as well as all the other jewelry. It was nice to read your story. :)

Rosie said...

It's such a wonderful ring...the one thing that would make you feel beautiful even though your running on low. I only have 1 kid and I'm so amazed that you get so much done with 4!

Tracy Waldrop said...

LOve your jewelry. Found it when I wasn't looking for it. Trying to make up my mind on several. You go girl!!! Great designs.

Tracy Waldrop
asheville, NC

Anonymous said...

Beautiful ring!
I really like your necklaces.
Loved the dedication picutres of your two little ones.

HMA said...

I have had a crush on that ring for EVER!!! I really did let out a little squeal when I saw that you brought it back.

Anonymous said...

This is adorable!!! I'd love to win!

tbmroberts at yahoo dot com

Dottie said...

Love the ring and all your other creations! your on my "eye candy" area of my blog.

Shana said...

Erin you always continue to amaze me with your beautiful jewelry AND beautiful photos! I remember this ring from a few months and I loved it then just as much as I love it now!! Congrats on being a successful wahm!

Amanda said...

What amazing jewelry! You are super talented. :)

Anonymous said...

Ooh, glad I saw the link to this ring and your blog. You are an inspiration. Thanks! Julie

Anonymous said...

You are truly blessed.

AcresofHope said...

yes please!!

Jenna said...

you are an amazing artist. i love your work and your blog. that ring is just calling my name!!

Steph said...

Hello hello! That ring is still very much a "want." :) LOVE IT!

Kristine said...

What a gorgeous ring! I'd love to be entered! Your stuff is so pretty!!

Sweet Simplicity said...

Love her designs, especially that ring!!!!

Jeannie said...

Very admiring that you can create while being a mom!

~~Annie~~ said...

We miss you....Hope you are having fun on your vacation!!!!!!!!

~~Ann~~

Leah F said...

I don't know if this giveaway is still open, but the ring is stunning! And I love your other jewelry! Thanks for sharing your story.
phinnland[at]gmail[dot]com

Leslie Ruth Petree said...

My husband and I don't have kids yet but it's always good to hear from other, wiser folks who do. Thanks for sharing a slice of your life and how it all works!

And your jewelry...simply stunning. That pearl ring would be perfect on my right hand :)

Momrempel said...

Wow absolutely awesome stuff!

Rebecca said...

You are an inspiration Erin! I don't now how you do it! God Bless you~:o)

Rebekah said...

Hope I'm not too late to enter - Erin's jewelry is wonderful, I love mine!

Anonymous said...

I would love to win!!!
Beautiful!

contact me at:
celeste@mail4me.com

Anonymous said...

Count me in! Love that ring!

springshoot5@aol.com

Anonymous said...

I LOVE her work, been admiring it for quite some time!

gjw823@aol.com