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It's the little things in life....

Today was full of exciting firsts.  My farmers market plans that I had my heart set on fell through a couple of weeks ago.  Don't you think that when you call for vendor information they should provide accurate information?  So I'd been considering another venue, however I was concerned about getting a TID for another state - Kansas City sits on the state line of Kansas and Missouri.  I live in KS and the venue is, of course, in MO.   Anyway, I was able to get my new licensing taken care of with ease today.  This is the first time I've encountered such nice people who were happy to help in a government office setting- no offense, but you know how it can be.  I was pleasantly surprised.  I'm hoping my vendor application goes through by weeks end and I will feel much better when it's settled.

Now, this evening - I intended to work on soap packaging.  That didn't happen but Hubby and I ended up organizing my storage and curing space, so it's way better now.  In addition to that, he has been working on making me some wooden display crates in various sizes, and decided to try an idea for soap decks.  They turned out to be easy and really look great.  We have some small drainage holes to drill and then a little varnish.  (I will post pics when they're all finished)  I'd bought some of these from an Etsy seller last year and people went crazy over them, so they should be good sellers.

One last thing...if you have a Whole Foods near you, I found some biodegradable, unbleached wax paper pouches (like treat or sandwich bags) that hold a larger soap bar very nicely.   I thought I could also stamp them with my logo and use as sales bags for smaller ones.  Little things like this always make me happy, so I just thought I'd share.  

Comments

  1. I just finished a display shelf myself. It makes such a difference doesn't it!

    cabinofbows.blogspot.com

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    Replies
    1. It really does. He's got some new toys, er I mean tools..so he's got to play - I mean work with them! It's a win/win for all!

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  2. Great work Angie. Thanks for the tip on wholefoods. I will check them out. Papermart.com has tons of packing solutions and papers cheap. Also dollarstore.com That's my tip

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It was just a fluke that I ran across them at WF...But I LOVE $ store...if you can think outside the box they have loads of workable items.

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  3. When will items in the curing room be available? I am interested in a few of those!

    ReplyDelete

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