Happy, happy Friday, folks!
Since it's such an amazing start to an amazing holiday weekend, I know you're thinking about spending it with someone special - and for a way to tell that someone how special you think they are! So, what's more thoughtful than good ol' fashion snail mail?!
Today's Friday Feature is with Keely, the cleverly creative mid behind Monkey and the Whale. She creates tokens of gratitude and admiration in the form of chic minimalist stationary. Shop name sound familiar? This crafty lady also dedicated time curating a super cute board as guest pinner at the sfetsy pintrest page! Enjoy the interview below, then check out her pintrest board here!
1. What is your shop name and URL?
Monkey & The Whale, monkeyandthewhale.etsy.com
2. To which Etsy Teams do you belong?
SF etsy
3. Please tell us about the items in your Etsy shop. What do you make? How did you learn your craft? What is involved in your creative process?
I make and design paper goods. Since I am a graphic designer by trade you will see a lot of designed pieces that are more graphic and modern. But, I also love to make things from scratch, so I have blockprinted items as well. I have a few blocks that I have carved and turned into art prints, or stationery sets in the shop. I love to draw and that usually finds its way into the computer or on a block for a different result. I love doing both and seeing the differences.
I chose to do stationery because I am still a big believer in snail mail. I love to get cards and I love to send them, they are such a great way to connect with our friends and loved ones. I try to offer cards that put a spin on the traditional greeting card, either with humor, or unique design.
4. Tell us two (or more) other interesting things about you.
I am a full time mom of a 3 year old and a 2 year old, and I work freelance from home. Needless to say my life is a bit of a whirlwind right now. Finding balance is a never ending goal.
I just started training for my first half marathon, after several years of little to no exercise. I'm doing it with my husband and Team In Training so I have a lot of support and guidance, but it is crazy hard!
5. What is your biggest challenge related to your Etsy shop?
Getting my name out there. It is still a bit of a side project for me and hasn't really taken off. It is so hard to find the time and the right way to market myself. It is a work in progress!
6. What is your favorite item in your shop (currently for sale or previously sold)? Why is it your favorite?
My Little Notes. I thought of these randomly and just fell in love with the idea-something little that you can pass to a friend or loved one. I love the big heart, Hola, and the humping dogs cards, but I love that they offer a fun way to share with the people in our lives. Whenever possible it is always good to use humor!
7. What crafting skill(s) do you wish you had or hope to learn someday?
Silkscreening. I have the basic knowledge, I just need to get all my set up done and get going already. One of these days...
8. If money were no object for just one day, what would you do?
I would go shopping, like CRAZY. I would buy all the clothes and shoes I ever wanted and all the stuff for my house I've always wanted. It would be a pretty awesome day!
9. Where else can we find out more about you and/or your creations?
You can find me all over. I have a blog that has a few regular posts on found inspiration, and lifestyle each week:www.monkeyandthewhale.com
I also contribute on Rena Tom's blog twice a month as well. I post curated picks of things I find inspiring, as well as creative process challenges: http://renatom.net
Twitter: http://twitter.com/monkeyandwhale
If you're an Etsy seller in the San Francisco Bay Area, contact Katy or Steph about joining SFEtsy!
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