Thank you Dina for agreeing to let me blog about you and your amazing Etsy store x
In Dina's words ...
I started my Etsy shop because friends kept telling me to get out there an expose myself and it gave me the ability to stay home and take care of my 2 children. Paying for someone to do outdoor /indoor maintenance and repairs as well as daycare was not an option and before I started I always said to myself that another's trash could be my fortune.
Even as a child at seven I took an old quilted robe and made an owl and sold for $5.00 . Loved thrift shops even then. Was introduced to them by an eccentric Auntie. Love her.
Growing poor inspired me to make things out of whatever I could recreate. Clothing mostly in my youth.
After the birth of my 2nd child I blossomed and still evolving as I feel this is not it. My dream has always been to do what I love and make enough to help others. Inspire and bring joy and enjoy life.
My finds have appeared , by this I mean whenever I need /want something , I always say to myself it will come and let go, patently wait.
Example: 3 years ago I really wanted a toaster oven I had seen advertised. One morning I went out for coffee and walking back home. What did I find 3 blocks away on the curb wrapped in plastic but a brand new toaster oven. You can't imagine my gratitude and joy!
I also help others doing clean ups at home when in need or estate sales and in return I have been given things.
My finds also include garage sales, thrift shops, curbside and dumpsters. I jump right in if I see something I can use, knobs, wood, etc.
It kills me when I see perfectly good wood thrown out.
If I can't afford to buy it I will try my best to make it. Love shoes but cant make them yet!!!
But not a hoarder. lol
I once had a person ask me to clean out their garage and in return I could keep everything in the garage and there was more in the dumpster. Oh this one was awesome. Soooo many vintage items. Truly a gift from heaven. My belief was this is how I would be. It is said what you believe will be true for you. My experience. Always dreaming.....
I have done many jobs in my life - cleaning lady, mothers helper, waitress, receptionist and import manager in the fashion industry for 13 years , to name a few. Have had a few others too, on my own at 16 years. It has all taught so many great lessons compassion for others and pride in all that I do.
My shop is very feminine, it's what I love, but in truth, most of the time, I'm in cargo pants , boots and a t-shirt as I do a lot of physical labor.
Can't work in a summer dress but I do love them and my hands Aghhhhh ! LOL
Most of the time I feel like I am 7 feet tall and have the strength of ten men but I am only 5'4" and 130 pounds. LOL .
I love creating anything that inspires me. I'm inspired by people, places, nature, time periods and things. I can visualize what it can be.
Click here to visit Dina's store!
~ vintage shopping at it's finest ~
