This week we're featuring some of the cutest baby fashions and accessories you'll find in the Granite State.
Karen Mitchell is a work at home mom who runs a successful Etsy shop, Very Cozy Baby.
If you're a Mom like me, you're always hunting for stylish ways to outfit yourself while out and about with your little ones. Let's face it--diaper bags and essential Mom accessories are often lacking in the style department. Enter Karen Mitchell's shop. She uses bold yet durable fabrics and classic designs that take frumpy, tired Mom to hip and sophisticated Mom!
I am particularly fond of her line of diaper bags featuring Amy Butler fabrics. The size is perfect for fitting all those nitty gritty essentials that we can't live without, while not sacrificing on every woman's desire to look pretty and put together.
When the weather is nice, I love taking my 10 month old for walks in her stroller. It's not really necessary to take a full bag with me, but I do need to bring a few things with me like my cell phone, house keys, and maybe a Chapstick. This wristlet is the perfect answer! It's small enough to hold those few things that you inevitably need on a quick jaunt outdoors. And it's certainly not limited to outings with the baby. This versatile wristlet would travel in a diaper bag or purse perfectly.
And what about the babies?
Who could resist this adorable number, shown here in 12 month size? It's quite possible that I may need to pick this up for my soon to be 1 year old daughter!
And let's not forget the sweeter side. This precious baby blanket can be customized with your child's name. This is the type of blanket that will become a keepsake for your child. It would make a perfect baby shower gift for the expecting Mom, or a wonderful welcome home gift for new baby.
I had a chance to talk with the lovely and talented Karen Mitchell. Here's what she had to say about herself and her wonderful creations:What is your name, and what is your Etsy shop name?
Karen Mitchell, VeryCozyBaby.etsy.com and VeryCozyBabysport.etsy.com
Do you have a blog, website, etc. you'd like to share?
verycozybaby.com or verycozybaby, LLC on facebook
Describe your craft/art.
I create and sew infant blankets of all types, infant and toddler clothing and accessories.
Describe your work space. If you could have your ideal work space what would it be?
Currently my sewing room is our office area. My ideal workspace would be a sewing room with lots of shelving for fabric as well as a cutting table!
Tell us a bit about yourself in general.
I have been at home with my three children (Cameron - 8, Brady - 6 and Haley - 2/1/2) for three years now. Prior to being at home, my career was at Fidelity Investments in Merrimack, NH for 11 years. I began as a trader and when I left, I was running a team of financial retirement specialists. I am very busy with all of the kiddos, but love to sew and create!
Aside from your art/crafting, what is your life like?
Pretty busy as I have three young children, but I keep myself busy with my business as well and I am always looking for ways to meet more crafty people. Until I started sewing for my business, I do not think I truly appreciated all the hard work and thought that hand crafters put into their work. Now, as I look at what people on Etsy and other places have created, I am so impressed!!!
How did you get into your art/craft?
I began sewing my Cozy carseat blankets for family and friends and people started asking me to make and sell them the blankets. From there, I just ventured into making other items and it has just taken off!
What do you love most about living and crafting in NH?
I love the willingness of other crafters to share thoughts and ideas. The NH Street Team was so welcoming when I joined a couple of years ago and has never disappointed me!
How do you promote your art/craft?
Other than Etsy, I have had some of my items in local shops, left biz or instructional cards at places that sell infant and toddler items and I have had a feature article in Kidsworld (a buyers magazine).
Are there any local venues where you sell your work?
I am about to have some of my blankets listed online for Bippity Boppity Baby in Nashua, NH
Describe a typical day in your crafting/art life.
lol!! when the kids are in school or nap, I sew!
What are your immediate goals for your work and life? Long term goals?
My immediate goals are to keep the orders that come in steady. Going forward, I would love for my business to be busy enough that when the kids are in school, I can do this work from home rather than get a job outside of the home.
If you could be doing anything with your life, what would it be?
I am very happy where I am right now - but would also love to be designing infant, toddler, kids items for others to make!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I would love to someday have a shop where I could make and sell my items!!
Well there you have it, folks. Be sure to visit Very Cozy Baby on Etsy, become a fan on Facebook, and check out her website. You'll be glad you did!
Thanks for supporting NH Artists living and working right here in the Granite State.
