Local Artisan Highlight + Giveaway: Crazy Mrs. Smith

Today is double the fun! Not only do we get to feature Carly from Crazy Mrs. Smith as a local artisan but as a friend as well! When my first daughter was around a year old, Carly posted some crocheted beanies that she had made and was selling--I bought two! I used them to photograph her for her first birthday and instantly fell in love with the items Carly created. Her items are soft, unique, and perfect to photograph your little (or big) ones!

It's been a few years and Carly has since opened Crazy Mrs. Smith to feature her talents. She knits and crochets beautiful props, hats, headbands, bows and other items. Her items are used by some incredibly talented photographers. In addition, Carly creates items for everyday use such as bows, beanies, and wraps! Here is a little bit about the artist behind the name.

What items do you sell?
I offer newborn photography props, but I also offer most of my knit and crochet items in multiple sizes, newborn through adult.

Do you use any special materials?
I use many different materials. I LOVE hand-dyed yarns and "Think 'n Thin" yarn. I use them for special items like leg warmers and ear warmers. (And I found a local lady who does it all from her backyard and I LOVE her work-- Hogg Wild Fibers--)

Has your shop changed over the years?
My shop has definitely changed! A HUGE "Thank you" to Traci Farias who has so kindly, and wonderfully, photographed my work to help with sales! I went from just a few crocheted items to now knit and some sewn leggings and bonnets. Even the look of my logo has changed, mainly because I'm indecisive.

What does your week as a shop owner look like?
My week consists of many different things. I also work at my husband's business so between being there and running around with my sweet boys, I work on orders! I get most of my work done during their naps and after they go to bed. I work on orders pretty much daily, but it being something I love to do, I don't mind one bit!

How long have you been selling?
I've been selling through facebook for about two years, but I just started selling on Etsy a little over one year ago. I started making only headbands for Traci, and when she would post photographs using my work, I became obsessed. So I soon had my mom and grandma teach me how to crochet, and it just went from there!

Where does your creative inspiration come from?
I would have to say my inspiration comes a lot from my customers! A lot of the time they will give me a color scheme and I go from there. I also LOVE simple and rustic and soft colors. Yellows, mints, browns...I'm just so excited for Fall!

Do you have an in-store presence anywhere?
I sell my items at Embellish and Restore on Main Street. I do get a little behind with items down there, but I am hoping to get fully stocked for Fall!! Yay!

Do you take custom orders?
I take custom orders all day everyday! Just because you don't see something listed, it doesn't mean I can't or haven't made it. Custom orders have to be my favorites because it does give me the chance to make something new to sell.

Do you offer local pickup?
If you are local and willing to meet, I love to do pick ups/drop offs! I love to be able to meet my customers and see what they're all about.

What is the best way to contact you?
Etsy is a perfect way to contact me since I get a notification to my phone when I receive a message. My business page on Facebook (Crazy Mrs Smith) is another great way!

What can you not live without?
COFFEE! A sign for my home I might have to have made would say "I love you more than coffee, but don't make me prove it." It definitely sums me up! I'm having a nice big cup right now!

Carly is generously giving a 25% discount on any purchase this week! No minimum purchase necessary and no restrictions. Custom orders ALWAYS welcome! Just use the coupon code at time of purchase on her Etsy site: CITRUSANDCREAM.

AND as if that wasn't enough, Carly is giving away a $30 shop credit! Show Carly some love and enter using the rafflecopter below! 
a Rafflecopter giveaway