friday giveaway: leonem

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Hi, I'm Vanessa, and Leonem is Latin for lion! What could be fiercer than a lion? The name has been a great inspiration for me and is also meaningful because I am a Leo! All Leonem bags and accessories have a minimalist’s touch – sometimes less is more. Leonem is here to fit the need for every day essentials; we’re all about creating things that are functional and look chic with any outfit. Whether you need a huge tote to help get you through your errands, or a cool clutch for an evening out, we’ve got you covered.

Sara & I had the opportunity to sit down and talk with Vanessa about her creative process, her love of Project Runway (me too!), and her experiences on Etsy so far. Stay tuned after the interview for a chance to win a gorgeous tote bag from her shop. And, Vanessa is extending a special offer to all nashpop readers, use code "NASHPOP2012" for 10% off anything in her shop. 

How would you describe your creative process?

I tend to do a lot of thinking before I actually start drafting any patterns or creating samples. I like to have a really clear idea of what I will be creating. Sometimes it works out perfectly, and sometimes it takes a bit of trial and error but that's how it goes.

How do you bust out of creative blocks?

If I am getting frustrated or stuck, I find that it’s best for me to take a break and walk away from the sewing table for a little while. It’s always a good idea to take some breaks, get a good night’s sleep and start up again the next day. Watching some Project Runway re-runs usually helps too!

What are your favorite colors and why?

I’m not sure that I have a favorite color right now! However, if I had to say…I guess it would be gray (even though it’s more of a shade). I like gray because it’s a nice neutral that goes with anything!

How long have you been selling on Etsy?

I opened my merchant account back in 2008, but I just started selling on July 1st, 2012! I know it took a few years, but I’m very happy that I took the time to figure out what I wanted to sell.

What has the experience been like?

My shop is pretty new, but it has been a very positive experience so far. I have learned a lot even in the few weeks my shop has been open. It's been very cool to watch my shop stats, and discover many new places to promote.

Any words of advice for aspiring handmade artists?

Don’t second guess yourself! I’ve wasted a lot of time questioning my abilities, and I can tell you it doesn’t help. Just keep creating, and believe in yourself and what you do! It’s also great to build a strong support team, whether it’s family, friends or fellow Etsians!

Tell us something we probably didn't already know about you.

I’m a bit of a tea addict! I have a growing collection of teapots and loose leaf teas. Also, I like cats!

It's giveaway time!

Up for grabs this is this artistically patterned tote bay from Leonem. The Zine tote is made from a modern navy blue cotton print, and features a durable canvas bottom. This bag is fully lined with a soft beige cotton, and has strong cotton webbing straps. This is the essential tote and is fantastic for a quick trip to the market or a day out on the town. It's a great size for books or magazines!

How to enter:

Be a follower of this blog, and like Leonem on Facebook. Leave a comment on this post saying you did that, include your email address, and you have officially entered the giveaway.

Contest ends Thursday, August 2nd at midnight EST - a winner will be chosen randomly (using a random number generator) & will be announced the next day at the end of our weekly Friday giveaway post.

Bonus Entries:

Increase your chances of winning by nine! If you do (or have already done) any of the following, please let us know by leaving a separate comment for each action. If you do not leave a separate comment, your bonus entries will not be counted. 

1. Follow Leonem's blog

2. Follow Leonem on twitter

3. Favorite Leonem on Etsy

4. Become a fan of nashpop on Facebook

5. Follow nashpop on twitter

6. Favorite nashpop on Etsy 

7. Follow nashpop's boards on Pinterest

8. Tweet about this giveaway (include an @nashpop tag)

9. Share this blog post on Facebook

Good luck & have a fantastic weekend!!

p.s. We are happy to announce that last week's giveaway winner from Hope Starbound is comment number 54 -- Soozle  Congratulations! We will be contacting you super soon.

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