Helen's Corner Feature and Coupon

Are you looking for a baby gift? Do you want something unique to give to a new mama for her little blessing? Or maybe you need a gift for a special little girl. Well you've come to the right place. I want to introduce you to another Etsy shop and the sweet lady who runs it. Step right into Helen's Corner!

Please tell us a little about yourself. 

My name is Helen.  I’ve been married to my wonderful husband Joel for a little over 5 years, and we have 2 wonderful children, Joshua (2) and Elsie (born in July 2011).  Besides being a pastor’s wife, a pastor’s daughter and granddaughter, I find my true identity in being God’s unconditionally loved child.  I believe God created me to not only enjoy a true and intimate relationship with Him, but also share His love with others around me.  

What inspired you to open your shop?

When my son Joshua was born in June of 2009, he was given a lot of clothes that despite being functional, lacked character.  Most of his bodysuits were plain, so I thought to myself “these onesies need SOMETHING!”  I found myself nursing him while sitting in the glider chair of his room, and having lots of time to think about how I could generate some additional income from home.  That’s when the idea of screenprinting his plain onesies came to be.  And to take a step further, I thought “How could I share God’s love for people, especially little ones like Joshua, in a creative and unique way?  Would people buy them?  Would they be interested in something like this?”  I knew Etsy was one of my personal weaknesses (I used to spend hours and hours just browsing around the different shops).  So I decided to open a shop and… the rest is history.

 

Where did your shop name come from?

Helen’s Corner was literally the place in my house where my creativity was put to use.  I had my screenprinting machine, my sewing machine, and my craft supplies all in one CORNER of my basement. The name was a natural choice.  Everything in my shop was first created in my corner, there in that basement.  I have since moved from that house, but my ‘stuff’ continues to rest in a “corner” of my new craft room.

In your opinion, what sets you apart from the rest?  Is there something that you do differently than other people in your craft?

I’m not afraid to share God’s love and His promises from Scriptures in my creations.  Whether it’s a reminder that we are LOVED, BLESSED, or Wonderfully Made, I point people to the Source of these truths.  The Bible says that we were each fearfully and wonderfully made, unconditionally loved, and blessed by our Father and Creator (Psalm 139: 14, 1 John 4:19 and John 3:16, and Mark 10:16).

 What is the most exciting thing that has happened since you've started?

One of the most exciting things has been providing Christian faith-based apparel to parents who are excited to welcome their newborn babies.  There was one particular mother who contacted me, sharing that she was pregnant with a miracle baby.  The baby was born healthy, and she let me know by sending me her baby announcement picture, where her son was wearing one of my bodysuits that said “Perfect Gift” from James 1:17.  What a joy it was for me to be a part of this miracle!  I still keep that picture, as a reminder that  God is behind this business… which is more than a business, it’s a ministry.

Do you take custom orders? If so, how do they work?

Custom orders are welcome.  I’m unable to customize sayings/verses, but I will work with you on different sizes, colors, and shirt styles (short/long sleeve).  Bulk orders are also welcome.  Prices vary.

Besides crafting, what else do you do?  What are your other interests?

Besides crafting, I spend a LOT of time with my children.  I like to read, bake, shop, and play with makeup.

How do you make time to craft?

Since giving birth to Elsie in July 2011, finding time to craft has been a true challenge.  Nap time is precious, so I pick and choose my chores.  Crafting these days has been a luxury, I won’t lie!!

What advice would you give someone new to online selling?

Be intentional about developing relationships with other online sellers, through team forums, discussions, and all the social media venues (Facebook, Twitter, Blogs…).  It’s important to “put yourself out there”, letting people know you exist and learning from others in this field.  Also, it’s a wonderful opportunity to make new friends!  If you’re just starting your online business, don’t forget to have fun with your craft.  If you’re doing it without passion, your heart won’t be in your efforts, and your business can easily die with your lack of energy overtime.  If you have a heart for what you do, the Lord will honor your perseverance and hard work.  Remember to do everything to honor your Creator, and He will delight in your efforts.

Aren't they sweet? What a great way to celebrate the blessings the Lord gives including the blessing of children! I love the way Helen views her work as more than just a business - rather it's a ministry. I'd encourage you all to go check out Helen's Corner on Etsy and shop around among her special onesies, shirts, and purses, as well as her other items! You can also find her on her blog as well as on Facebook.

Helen is graciously offering all of my readers a coupon code to use in her shop! For the next 30 days you can use the code SARAHFREESHIP  to receive free shipping on any domestic orders.