By now you're all aware that I have a new appreciation for handmade, local and small business shopping. It started a few years ago when I first started learning "crafty things" like the year I learned to crochet and everyone got a scarf or something that sort of resembled a blanket. I realized that year that it felt more meaningful to give a gift that you made especially for that person, that you put a lot of time into making sure it was just right. 

Over time I've learned that the product handmade by a local artist is far more precious than the comparable item stamped out in a factory in China. And honestly, those mass produced products aren't always that comparable! 

Whether I'm making something to give as a gift, or I'm buying from one of the local crafters or someone who I've met online through facebook and Etsy, I feel better buying from a vendor who's put his or her heart and soul into that item. And I get much more joy from giving the gift that will be surprising in its uniqueness and treasured for the love with which it's given.

~Jenna

What are your thoughts on local/ small business/ handmade? Is it important to you? What makes you feel that way? 


I look forward to reading your story!

Have I told you guys how much of a Scentsy junkie I am? I love how fragrant these things are and because of the affordability, I can warm them ALL the time without feeling guilty! Sorry YC but I have a very hard time paying $25 for 1 candle!

I currently have 4 warmers in my house that are on whenever I'm there - and often when I'm not since they're so safe! I also have a "spare" one that goes in the bathroom when company is coming. Unfortunately I have a small bathroom vanity but not to worry! I have a new plug-in warmer on the way that can stay in there permanently! And we can't forget the one on my desk at work! I am surrounded by Scentsy 24/7!!

I wish I could tell you how many fragrance bars I have... There are 12 in my work supply and at least 30 at home. Some are multiples of course because if they're going to discontinue a favorite I just have to hoard what I can! I'm pretty sure I just placed an order for another 12 or so... Maybe more.

Have you tried Scentsy? NO!?? Well, you're just going to have to!! You'll forever give up whatever home fragrance method you're using now. Candles will be relegated to the ambiance category. You'll start wondering what scents you can put together for your own custom fragrance recipe. You'll fall in love with the experience of a new fragrance in every room (once you become an addict like I am!) And you'll be so excited about the ease of cleanup and scent changing! Trust me, those Walmart scent cubes are terrible!!! Such a fight to get them out of the warmer!!

Once you go Scentsy, you'll never go back!

Think I'm crazy?

Already own Scentsy and can sympathize with my condition? What's your favorite
fragrance?

Want to win one of TWO Scentsy prizes from my 800 Likes Giveaway? If you've signed up for the "addiction" entries in my 800 Likes Giveaway, be sure to leave your comments here!

~Jenna

Tell me something - What would you most likely purchase if you won the $20 Gift Certificate to JennaBee Handmade?

The end of summer is quickly approaching and, as usual, has gone by too fast! Mothers are talking about back to school shopping and which school starts the earliest, families are planning last chance mini-vacations and winter clothes are starting to hit the store shelves! For me, this all means one thing: The Fall craft fair season is on its way! And I, as usual, am not prepared! 

Last year I decided to do the fairs on a whim "to see how it goes." Well, it was pretty successful so I decided this year I would up my game, sign up for bigger events, go for broke on a bigger and more professional looking display and step up my offerings as well - more variety, more handbags instead of just small items, men's products! I had plenty of time to get ready - the whole summer in fact! But here it is, 2 weeks away from the first fair and I am back in panic mode! 

I didn't plan on starting this early. I was asked to join a fair in mid-August that is a fundraiser for Andrew's Helpful Hands and I can never resist something so important. It's technically a "summer" event but falls just 6 DAYS before what was to be my official "Fall Season Kick-off" event. 

I have to assume that I'm not really crazy; my mind just knows that I live for a deadline and work best under pressure - right? Why else would I sign up for an event with only 10 wristlets, 6 coin purses and a few snack bag sets left in my inventory? 

While I hope you all enjoy these last few weeks of sunshine and relaxation, and soak up every bit of sun you can before Winter sets in, today is officially the last day of My Summer. As I write this I am getting ready to attend an outdoor concert with my son, soaking up the last of My Summer sunshine and listening to great music. I'll be coming home to packages to post, orders to finish and a huge pile of fabric that needs to be ironed. This is it - time to crack down, stop goofing off and the end of going to bed early! 

I look forward to seeing you all at the fairs this year, saying hello to old friends and welcoming new. I will be the girl with the dark circles under her eyes and giant cup of coffee, welcoming you to my improved stall full of brand new offerings!