Colorful Summer Accessory Story

Colorful Summer Accessory Story

Summertime and the living is easy.  Bathed in brilliant sunlight; the days get longer, nights get hotter, hemlines rise, and you find more time to enjoy the tides.  Here's to outdoor grilling, sand between your toes, and your skin all a-glow.  Here is to Miami and it's beautiful people on South Beach; here is to the Jersey Shore with spray gel and spray tans. Here is to Malibu with it's gnarly waves, here is to the islands where Red Stripe is a must and tropical music plays.

I love summer.  Even though I am in the swamp we call the nations capitol, I still look forward to hot (humid) fun in the summertime.  This weeks flash sale is an ode to bright tropical colors, from celosia orange to radiant orchid; and pastels from placid blue to hemlock.

Without further ado:

Courtney Earrings

The beachy toned Courtney earrings combine vintage appeal with modern, edgy style. Sky blue rhinestones and clear CZ's cascade towards gold flat chains, finished off with bold spikes. Not your typical tassel pair, Courtney adds all sorts of interest to day and evening ensembles.   Click here http://bit.ly/1uR9Alf to view

Kelly Earrings

This statement chandelier pair is perfect for summer. Beachy, oceanic tones form Kelly's color palette. Prong set in gold, Kelly's circular stones in navy and teal are joined by sparkling topaz CZ's. Pair the lovely Kelly with a simple gold necklace.  Click here http://bit.ly/1ikIRxH to get your pair 

Ramona Earrings

Brimming with romantic vintage detail, the two drop Ramona earrings bring not-to-miss wow factor. Antiqued silver combines with cobalt and aqua CZ's for ornately dramatic effect in Ramona's swirling floral design. Pair with layered antiqued chains to continue the retro vibe.  Click here http://bit.ly/1uRaY7D to view.

Stacia Earrings

Go bold with the Stacia coral earrings. Add a bit of punch and more than a pop of color with this lush statement pair. A border of sparkling CZ's adds extra shine to Stacia's vivid coral, green, blue and orange palette.  Click here http://bit.ly/Tj6wCE to view.

Elizabeth Necklace

Sometimes the most unexpected color palettes create the biggest splash in statement jewelry. Elizabeth is bursting with marquis cut stones in magenta, tan, and green. Additional floral patterns of blue and grey CZ's add further shine to the lovely Elizabeth.  Click here http://bit.ly/1nVvqmL to view.

Nathalie Necklace

The Nathalie necklace marries statement design with simplicity of a lush, lipstick red color palette. This stunner's coral toned floral geometric design complements its gold chain beautifully. Warm and vibrant, Nathalie is the perfect pop of color for day and evening looks.  Click here http://bit.ly/1qrq2sB to get this stunning statement piece.

Cali Necklace

I'm loving the beachy aqua and gold tones of the multi-chain Cali necklace. You'll wow them in Cali's
eleven layers of limitless style. Against contrasting antique gold, a multitude of vivid berry sized beads are strung together throughout Cali.  Click here http://bit.ly/1pfWDV5

Giovanna Necklace

With CZ's and marquis cut, oval and circular stones in lavender and navy, Giovanna fans out like a tranquil water lily. Hematite adds a pop of substance to Giovanna's subdued yet glamorous design. You can't help but make an entrance in this on-trend head-turner.  Click here http://bit.ly/TsDWyO

Elena Necklace

Wow them in the peacock fan of Elena's turquoise. This stunner combines a trio of tones and lustre as CZ's, antiqued brass, and turquoise join together for optimum interest. You'll make an entrance wearing Elena.  Click here http://bit.ly/1jLtk4y

Coraline Ring

Hot coral is a trend that shows no signs of fading, and it's in full glory in the Coraline stretch fit ring. Vibrant light topaz and siam CZ's form the petals of vivid floral design. You won't be missed wearing this splendid piece. Click here http://bit.ly/1sCcpea to get yours!

Emmaline Ring

Impossible to resist, this beautiful gold, turquoise, coral and vintage rose crystal ring is going to become one of your most often worn pieces. A mesmerizing vintage rose crystal is surrounded by coral, turquoise and opal stones. Wear this ring with everything from office casual to glamorous party attire.  Click here http://bit.ly/1v2BX04 to view.

As always, Happy Shopping!

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. SO please get to clicking :) ** 

PS You can connect with me on:

Instagram: @IHEARTRetailTherapy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IHEARTRetailTherapy

Twitter: @HEARTRetail

Pinterest: RetailTherapy1

Google+: +I HEART Retail Therapy

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Fruits of my Labor Via Kitsy Lane

Fruits of my Labor Via Kitsy Lane

Even though, I am a total retail addict (not that you didn't know that from the title of my blog) the split in my personality is spending money.  Seriously, it is a strange situation to deal with.  The emotional side of me screams, "gimme, gimme, GIMME! American Express be damned!", while the more logical side of me calculates all the cost benefits and upcoming bills I will have to pay.

Since the more rational side of me prevails, I have made a pact with myself to only spend on baubles and new fits when I make extra money.  Meaning, I recently had a few sales from my Kitsy Lane boutique (thank you lovelies! Send me pics of you in your new baubles!), I paid all my bills, AND got an awesome offer for being a Kitsy Lane Boutique owner, now it's time to buy myself a jewelry piece and a chai latte!  Hooray for me!

So this is what I bought, the Shelley Necklace!

Isn't she lovely?!  She's cute and reminds me of the beach...where I would rather be right about now.  

• If you want to get Shelley for yourself, click here https://iheartretailtherapy.kitsylane.com.
• To view all of the other awesome pieces I have hand picked with you and your style in mind, click here https://iheartretailtherapy.kitsylane.com.  
• To start your own boutique and offer your fabulous finds to your friends, click here https://iheartretailtherapy.kitsylane.com/offer

As Always, Happy Shopping (and Selling!)

**Links in this post contain links to my boutique, where I will earn compensation when you purchase your new jewelry pieces**

PS You can connect with me on:

Instagram: @IHEARTRetailTherapy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IHEARTRetailTherapy

Twitter: @HEARTRetail

Pinterest: RetailTherapy1

Google+: +I HEART Retail Therapy 

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The Shocking Truth about Being a Kitsy Lane Boutique Owner

The Shocking Truth about Being a Kitsy Lane Boutique Owner

After receiving several questions from Boutique Owners who signed up under me, I decided to do an honest review of Kitsy Lane and include my own personal experiences.  

Before I give my review and explain my experience with Kitsy Lane, I should tell you a little something about myself.  I am lazy.  I was never one of those who would be successful at selling Avon or Mary Kay.  I just didn't like the idea of having to push my products on friends and family (i.e individuals).  To be successful at these MLM's you really have to be ready at a moments notice to sell your products and hopefully sign up other motivated individuals under you to do the same.  I just was never that person, which is rather odd being that my professional background is federal enterprise sales.  I was rather good at business to business sales...but business to customer?  Not so much.

So when these Multi Level Marketing companies come across my radar, my first thought is "eh, I know I will not put forth the effort, so why pay to be apart of something I will not be successful at?" (Furthermore, I despise canned cheesy "motivational" calls with a passion).

When I came across Kitsy Lane, of course I was a bit skeptical.  However, it was free, so what did I really have to lose?  Yet, I still did my research and tried to find as many reviews as possible.  Most of the reviews I read ranged from too good to be true to downright horrible.  Being an affiliate marketer and following recent tactics and strategies employed by political parties (disinformation, trolls, etc),  I can sniff BS reviews from a mile away.  If a review is too good, 9 times out of 10 the person is being paid or will be paid to advertise.  If it is too negative, that person most likely had a negative experience and is unable and unwilling to give a fair and balanced perspective. *Life Lesson*

With that said, I still signed up.  I like jewelry, I like the concept of having an online boutique with no start up cost and did I mention it is free?  I signed up and eagerly participated in the training calls and seminars they offered.  I picked my pieces, customized my boutique and  I eagerly connected all my social media platforms.  

I am not going to lie to you dear readers, some of the negative reviews are totally true.  Some of the most popular complaints:

"The prices are very high"

"I think they need to bring down the prices."

Unfortunately I do somewhat agree with this sentiment.  Some of the items, I feel are overpriced.  I personally wouldn't pay that much for them.  For instance:

This Riri Collar is totally adorable.  I love it!  However, $128?  I don't think so!  While I wouldn't pay $128 for this,  I actually have gotten two orders for this necklace.  So, obviously some people would.  Furthermore, the pieces offered by Kitsy Lane range from around $20 to $200, so there is a little something to fit in anyones price point.

"I have been at this for about a year I have not gotten any sales" 

"I was with kitsy lane for nine months. I had 49 customers and 37 store owners sign up under me. No one was buying and no sales were being made, not by me nor by those under me."

"I've "owned" a kitsy lane boutique for almost a year and have not sold a darn thing-even by doing all the marketing techniques and using the help that they provide."

This I totally relate to. While I did get a lot of people to sign up as customers and boutique owners by letting Kitsy self automate...it really didn't translate into orders. I will say Kitsy really did a good job with the social media push (automatically) and it did bring quite a few sign ups.  Just not sales.

However, I did not give up.  I started to put forth minimal effort.  I advertised on job sites for "work at home" opportunities and advertised on Instagram and Pinterest...when I got around to it.  Again, more sign ups and limited sales.


Recently, I have gotten motivated to really put in the effort necessary to build my business.  The good news is with Kitsy's automated advertising, 1/3 of my job was taken care of.  However, the rest was up to me.  I bought (and rocked) some jewelry (by the way you do earn commissions on the pieces you buy...just an FYI) anytime I received a compliment I told them all about my boutique.  If they seemed interested in starting their own, I sent them my invitation link.  I advertise on Instagram constantly.  I blog about my flash sales.  Next month I am purchasing a business starter kit from Kitsy complete with jewelry pieces, displays and marketing material, so I can host my own trunk shows and jewelry parties.  Lastly, I sent a marketing email to my family and friends (mind you I said, a marketing email...meaning one) and that one action really helped my business grow.  My mom (of course) sent it to everyone in her contacts and a few other wonderful relatives and friends did the same.

Since then, my business has really grown.  Can I retire on my own private island paradise?  Not quite, but I am receiving orders consistently, with about 10-14 hours a week worth of work.  Not too shabby!  

SO my review in a nutshell, as far as MLM's goes this is my favorite because you do not have to invest anything to get started (unless you want to).  Furthermore, I love a lot of the pieces (not all of 'em) and am pleased with the quality.

In a nutshell, Pros:

1) It's absolutely free.  Not free but pay shipping and handling...no totally absolutely free to set up your site, pick out jewelry, and start selling.  
2) Kitsy Lane offers a lot of selling support.  They offer webinars, newsletters and offer unique suggestions to really push your jewelry.
3) Once you connect your boutique to your social media platforms, Kitsy Lane automatically posts sales, specials and coupons for your clientele.  No thinking required

Cons:

1) Some of the jewelry items in my opinion are overpriced.  However, Kitsy Lane has pieces in all different price ranges to fit in everyone's budget.
2) Even with Kitsy Lanes fabulous webinars, sales material and automated social media marketing, to really see those commission checks flow, you have to put in some work.  Serious work!

All in all I am pleased with Kitsy Lane, and if I had to do it all over again, I would.  
If you want your own boutique click here https://iheartretailtherapy.kitsylane.com/offer/TvWsgfL 

To check out I HEART Retails Jewelry Boutique click here http://www.iheartretailtherapy.kitsylane.com  

To see how Kitsy Lane is doing as a company click here

http://www.boston.com/business/technology/innoeco/2013/01/social_commerce_startup_kitsy.html 

As always, Happy Shopping (and Happy Selling!)

P.S You can connect with me on:

Instagram: @IHEARTRetailTherapy

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/IHEARTRetailTherapy

Twitter: @HEARTRetail

Pinterest: RetailTherapy1

Google+: +I HEART Retail Therapy 

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I Am in the Jewelry Business!

I Am in the Jewelry Business!

Yes, I am in the jewelry business!  Check me out...

Stylin' on bamas (smile). Anywhoo, I am proud of my site and would love for you to check out some of my fabulous pieces!

Ride Sally Ride features authentic vintage subway tokens dangling from French hook wires. A little bit retro, a little bit downtown chic, there is no need for a metro card when you're wearing these! Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/1aaqdOq

Raise your style game with this mixed metal, multistrand necklace of goldplate, silverplate and hematite hammered discs. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/GO5eck

Thin hematite chains drape in three sections to form the Brielle necklace. This statement piece works from the boardroom to the country club dining room. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/GO5uYP

You'll be dangerously outstanding in the Bristol Necklace. It's a bold, untamed piece that will transform even the simplest of necklines into an exotic affair. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/1gqfyoN

At your next outing, rock the Cameron bangle and make any excuse to show off that blinged out wrist. Raise a glass, shake a hand, wave goodbye. Cameron's divine cross motif will surely steal the crowd's attention. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/1gqfRjG

Welcome to the simple life with the Cara Ring. Featuring a polished nail head situation on a wire wrapped band, this ring is truly a simple statement ring.Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/16RrnTG

I "heart" this shape, especially with its statement making black enamel on a gold band. Wear it alone or stack them.Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/GN6uxb

Channel your inner feline with this eye-catching black enamel and gold jaguar head bracelet. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/18P422l

A rainbow for your wrist! This stretch gold linked bracelet has multicolored jewel tone beads that spans the spectrum and works with a variety of outfits. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/17WqSWd

Feel more confident than you already are with this hematite, convex cuff! Adds a sleek look to your wardrobe. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/16xh0SD

Bring your outfit to full bloom with the Ginzi ring. An engraved floral design is adorned with lapis. The blue and rose gold tones play off of each other to give you a look that's unassumingly chic. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/1hC8wLA

A stunning lesson in geometry. This copper hexagon bangle looks great alone or worn with its silver and gold companions. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/1gqi8et

Happiness and good fortune are yours for the taking when you are wearing the Hannah Hamsa Bracelet. Wear it alone or stack it with your other bracelets. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/1e8Hmfr

 Can a ring be sensuous? It can be if it has deep curves like this spectacular Veronica sterling silver ring. Click here to see the details http://bit.ly/19zRd93

Funny and charming, these, Ahava earrings are sure to draw attention. Gold vermeil hearts feature a center lapis cabochon and long wire back for a unique look. Click here http://bit.ly/GN9U37

Variety is the spice of life and this ring is both spicy and different than most cocktail rings. Click here for details http://bit.ly/1cvBGy9

What do we love so much about body chains? Their versatility. Preparing an outfit for date night Friday? Shock him in this sizzling body chain. Heading to brunch with the girls Sunday? Throw it on with a maxi and wake up the crowd with style. You can play queen of the jungle wherever you go. Click here http://bit.ly/17fR5vl

You'll HEART this gold necklace all year long. Featuring delicate double rolo chains and a polished heart tag, the Valentino Necklace is the perfect addition to jeans and a tee for a look of effortless elegance. The clasp is adorned with hanging rose and garnet Swarovski crystals. Click here for details http://bit.ly/15VmckX

The Luna wrap bracelet brings ultimate attitude to every look. An edgy, yet chic way to show your spunk. Click here for details http://bit.ly/1bHlH0z

Kings and queens have always adored their jewels and so can you with this rose gold ring. This noteworthy ring is absolutely darling. Click here for details http://bit.ly/1amvBiE

Put your love on display with the Lucinda gold hammered heart necklace designed by Rafia. Click here for details http://bit.ly/17ndNRm

Roses aren't always red. In this case it is a gold-plate Italian mesh rose ring and very special. The solitaire CZ stones on the base are a sweet detail sure to inspire compliments.Click here for details http://bit.ly/15Vn8pj

Embrace your wild side and secure instant style cred with the Kaia bracelet. Click here for details http://bit.ly/1cvGwvg

The Serena necklace is so unique - and will enhance so many looks! Wear it with your favorite sweater or that wrap dress - this statement necklace says what you want it to! Click here for details http://bit.ly/GGHg2R

Dreaming about upcoming days at the beach? Then look no further to see a sign those days are coming. The Seychelle Bracelet is crafted from round ivory beads and faceted gold ones, and features a polished gold seashell between two decorative spacer beads. Click here for details http://bit.ly/15nILwg

The lustrous, textured bangle is sultry and classic all at once. With an asymmetrical and organic silhouette, this lightweight bangle stacks well yet sends a bold style statement to every wrist. Click here for details http://bit.ly/1aaywd0

Click here for details http://bit.ly/17WBe8y The Sydney Necklace is on my list of favorite things. A bib of sleek coral-colored spikes with a raw cut green glass stone makes a bold statement and looks amazing with anything you pair it with.

These gorgeous rose gold and pearl Thandi earrings make a casual chic statement. The amazing rose gold disc dangle earrings showcase an intricate openwork design with pearl accents. Click here for details http://bit.ly/19hb2DZ

These are just a few of my favorite things, but there are literally hundreds(!) of pieces of jewelry and accessories on my site!  You can visit my jewelry site here https://iheartretailtherapy.kitsylane.com. And as an added bonus the first person to make a purchase gets $20 off a $45 or more order!  Simply enter MKC76R3HMQ upon checkout!  Again this is a one time use coupon so whomever gets there first gets the discount!  (However, I am a big softie!  If you didn't get the code in time email me at info@iheartretailtherapy.com or leave a comment on this post and I will get you another coupon code! Codes are limited however, I only have 14 more to give away so act now!)

Also, if you would like your own jewelry site make sure you click here joinkitsylane.com !  It's free!  Meaning: ABSOLUTELY FREE to start your own online jewelry boutique! You get a free website, with a huge inventory of hot accessories, a ton of promotional tools as well as a built in community of other boutique owners to learn from!  My experience so far has been phenomenal...and again, it hasn't costed me a dime!  For more information or to get started click here joinkitsylane.com

I appreciate everyone who has supported my Kitsy Lane Boutique so far!  Thanks so much and happy shopping!

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