Sponsor highlight {Jac & Elsie}

Today, I have a treat for you, as I get to introduce Jaclyn and her handmade shop to you.

Introduce yourself and your shop/blog.

Howdy, all! I'm Jaclyn, AKA the "Jac" in "Jac & Elsie," an Etsy shop full of beautiful handmade, vintage and upcycled jewelry. I fully believe a little something pretty can turn around a day. I put a lot of love into everything I make, and I like to think you feel the same whenever you open a piece of Jac & Elsie goodness.

set of three friendship necklaces

How did you get started with your handmade shop? I was at a friend's house, and she happened to have all her beading supplies out. The pretty beads caught my attention and made my fingers itch. She taught me how to open a jump ring and work a crimp bead. And that was that. I started with primarily beaded pieces and started to list on Etsy because, frankly, there was no way I could wear everything I had made. My style of jewelry has grown immensely. I much prefer working with vintage pieces, pulling them apart, repurposing them, fixing them. And I have found something of a niche in affordable adult friendship jewelry. You're never too old to tell your best gal pal that you love her.

Tell us one piece of advice for someone starting a handmade shop. 

Be prepared to spend most of your time NOT doing the thing that got you started with the shop. I opened Jac & Elsie because I love to make jewelry. But take this listing. The actual making of those earrings was the shortest part of the whole listing and sales process. The rest has been, and will be, taking photos, editing the photos, creating the listing, handwriting a thank you note to the buyer and packaging the earrings, not to mention the time it takes to market your site. Oh yes, and running to the post office should they find a home overseas. I feel so lucky that I enjoy the whole process, but I think opening a shop can be discouraging for people who don't realize all theother stuff that goes into their craft.

What has been the most rewarding thing about having your own handmade business? 

Knowing that Jac & Elsie jewelry is all over the world! I've shipped to Australia, Israel, Paris, Italy and more. It is so amazing to think a piece I made in my little Indiana studio or found in a small-town Indiana antique shop could find a home so far from where it started.

And now, for the part you've been waiting for! Use rafflecopter below for a chance to win ONE of three pairs of earrings, valued at $25.

a Rafflecopter giveaway