by Publisher, Sue Rosen

Presently Indiesmiles is going through a revamping of our look, hope you enjoy the slideshow that we just added of our articles! You’ll be able to click on the article of interest and check it out!

Cool isn’t it!

So. until our smiles are free of dust and the website is totally redone..please keep reading and enjoying. Also don’t forget to check out giveaways that are going on in our “Happy Giveaway” page!

Have fun and keep smiling!

Image courtesy of Buttonsandsuch

Attention advertisers: Those of you that have purchased the top ads will be extended one week, because of the issue with the bar. Thanks again for your patience. This should just take a couple more days!

By contributing columnist Barbra La Bosco aka All About the Buttons

My mother used to say “Smile & bite your cheek…I know what you’re thinking but smile instead” and boy, is that advice good for those of us who do craft shows and meet buyers in person.

Fortunately,my recent show was pretty good but I still had many opportunities to bite my cheek. These comments were honestly what I heard:

 1-Oh, now I know what to make with my mother’s buttons.
2-Did you knit this? (Yes) No way…
3-My grandmother made something like this only it was better.
4-All this is is a ribbon and a button (regarding a bookmark).

Now, my sarcastic side was gnawing at my cheek while my little bitty mature side, smiled and smiled and smiled with my mother on my shoulder. But the smiles came easy as I recalled the comments like “Oh, this is so clever” and “This is beautiful. My (blank) will love it”. Across the aisle from me was an elderly woman selling scarves and dried flowers. Everytime someone picked up a scarf she ran out from behind her table with a scowl on her face. She did not make one sale all day and her work was lovely. She literally scared everyone away.
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We are so used to the anonyminity behind a computer monitor that in person we must pause and while we wonder why people say what they say, we can only control our reactions. They want to make conversation. They want to appear interested. And maybe their grandmother did do it better and they forgot to bite their cheek! Anyway, my 2cents for today….smile!
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Happy Trees courtesy of Paper and String

3 Little Gingerbreadmen courtesy of Daintiedesigns

Most of the stores are offering 20% off with coupon code 20SMILES so test them out (please read the exact discount of each store. This information is place directly underneath their listing)! All art or handmade work direct from the maker.

Kreated by Kelly: Where buttons, fabric and paper come to play!!

Celebrating life, love and happiness is top priority for my shop and, therefore, you will find all sorts of whimsical accessories and pretties.
Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

Lost in the Forest: Enchanting jewelery & gifts

Unique hand made jewellery & gifts made from recycled & vintage finds. Inspired by love stories, fairy tales & faded glamour.

Check out Lost in the Forest’s Showboat feature!

Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

Drag’n Rags by Jennifer Lynn Productions: Arty accessories that favor nature

I sell simple beaded jewelry and hand-sewn purses/handbags. (Bags coming soon!)
Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

Sea Star Dreams Designs: Beach Relics from faraway seas for your jewelry collection!

Each shell (or other beach relic) has been handpicked off a beach that I have traveled to or visited!
Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

Check out Sea Star Dream Design’s Showboat feature!

Earrings by JuliaA: Handmade Earrings by JuliaA–lovely, feminine, classic.

My earrings combine classic elegance with modern flourishes to create style that goes with anything. The quality materials make them both beautiful and affordable. Available in your choice of colors and metals.

Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

Andrea Designs: Handmade Knit Designs
Do you want to be pamper, to look great and to be the center of attention? Wear a scarf or shawl from Andrea Designs!

Save 10%, get Free Shipping and a Free Pearl Bracelet from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

McGuinness Photography: Photography for your naked- and not so naked – walls

Your one-stop for photography. Browse our vast collection of nature and everyday images.

Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

Look: McGuinness Photography featured!

Tantalizing Stitches: DIY Supplies for Bags

Get your supply fix at Tantalizing Stitches! You can find large lobster clips, magnetic snaps, poly bags, knitting needles, and more.

Save 20% from January 16-31 with code “20SMILES”!

—SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER——>

Are you looking to start off the new year by increasing your customer base? Would you like to do this for free? If so, you are in luck!

We are giving away 5 Indie Finds Listings, 3 Smiles Coupon Campaigns, 3 Big Smiles Ad Spaces, and 3 Showboat Features!

Thanks to all those who entered….. The Winners are: ~~~~

RaShell, Alison, Jaime, Desiree, JuliaA, Marjorie, Andi, Denise, Joyce, Storykraft Kreative, Michelle, Deanna, Gayle, and Hinda!

Entries are now closed.

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How can you win these amazing prizes?

Just leave a comment on this post AND sign up for our newsletter (follow the arrow at the top).

We will randomly select four winning entries on Tuesday, January 13, and Wednesday, January 14, and six winning entries on Thursday, January 15 . The winners will choose from the remaining prizes. Its that simple!

The earlier you enter the better!

This is because everyday we will select from the comments we have received. Say you entered today (Monday). Then, you’ll have three chances to win. However, if you enter on Wednesday, you’ll only have one chance to win.

Don’t miss out!

Entries are accepted until midnight on January 14 so get them in now!