SUMMER GIVEAWAY SERIES: REDLEAF
1. When did you start selling on Etsy and Why Etsy?I started selling on Etsy in June 2008. At that time it was the only venue for handmade items that had any significant traffic. I had started to build my own website but after finding Etsy I realized that I could cut out a lot of the SEO work and at the same time get a lot of exposure quickly. Overall it's been a great experience.
2. Is this a full time gig for you?
I do this full time. For now I've decided to keep running the shop and production by myself, but that will have to change soon. I work every day of the week at least a few hours. When I do take a break I completely disconnect for a few days. It took a while to be able to do that, I was always afraid I'd miss something crucial. But breaks are crucial too I realized. I also wholesale to stores nationwide and that's a whole different area of my business that keeps me busy especially in the Summer.
a.) If Yes, what do you love about it.
The flexibility, the hours, and the autonomy. I worked for years in a corporate setting but never liked the inflexible schedule, and frankly seeing the same people every day and doing the same work as well was not something that maintained my interest level. I have to be constantly challenged, and that environment didnt provide that for me even with promotions. Once my children were grown I realized I had options. 
3. If I could only try one thing in your shop right now, which would you recommend?The bubble bath dough, absolutely. It's simple, natural, fun and unique. Oh, and it makes a ton of bubbles!
4. What was first product you ever made/sold?
My beeswax lotion. I still remember I shipped it to Wisconsin and that customer has returned many times, thankfully. 
5. What are your plans for the future?
For the near future I'm focused on having my products in more stores and online sites as well as expand my product line with a focus on more soaps and specialty items like scrubs and perfume oils. Ultimately I'd like to have someone running this for me on a day to day basis. I want to focus on ways to expand that I cannot handle currently such as my own separate site, more craft fairs, and expanded International sales.
6. Do you have a workspace? If so, can you share what it looks like?
Yes. It's small but very ergonomic. Everything is within reach. The exhaust fan plays a major role, you cannot handle scents all day without an exhaust fan. 
7. Where else can we find your goodies? (website, FB, stores etc)
I'm in stores nationwide including NY at Stoopher and Boots 385 Amsterdam Ave. Stephanie runs it and she's great. Go see her! You can often find my products on Heartsy, (a groupon type site) and they are carrying my line starting the 26th of July for several days after 2 very successful runs with them. The 2nd one was the longest running sale they have ever had, so I'm told. I'm also on Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Leaf-bath-and-body-products/163864093382
And, of course Etsy : www.etsy.com/shop/ShopRedLeaf
8. For fun: whats playing on your ipod, mp3 player, favorite book??Lately I've been listening to stuff I used to listen to years ago: Johnny Cash, Frank Zappa, old school stuff like that. Favorite book? Thats tough but I love collections of short stories by Richard Yates.
And last but never least, any Seattle brunch recommendations?
Hmmmm another tough one, there are several great places. But I think for the location and menu a great bet would be Cafe Campagne. It's right in Pikes Place market, but off the beaten path so it's not touristy. It's right on the bay, and the food is excellent. I've been there several times and I've never been disappointed.