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| marathon pendant via WiseGal Designs |
When I started The Ivy Twines over a year ago, I had a dream that I could marry two worlds: shopping and philanthropy. Not only that, but it could be a place to inspire and motivate others to create the ripple effect, and really make a difference. I love connecting with small businesses, hearing their stories and building friendships.
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| reusable snack bag via Ky & Company |
Give Back was my main focus, but I wanted to be able to showcase artists and things I was loving too.
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| cloth dinner napkins via color funky |
Long story short, life gets busy -- we all know that, right -- and my blogging time was getting crunched. I wanted time to do everything and keep bringing your fabulous features, and at the same time do all the behind the scenes, well, I kind of lost sight of that brilliant dream I had.
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| lovebird earrings via domzie |
While I want The Ivy Twines to be a place to discover great products and meet the person behind the business, I don't want it to become a place to simply "get free stuff." I can safely say that Ivy Twines readers are perhaps the most dedicated and kind hearted folks you'll ever meet in the blogosphere. You all will like what you see and support those businesses left and right, but I don't want to dilute the quality readers -- and features, with a bazillion giveaways.
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| scallop rounds via astonishing supplies |
So, things will start looking a little different around here. Of course, I'll still be bringing your fabulous shops with even more fabulous people, but I'll be putting an even bigger focus on those little things we all can do to help out, this time, in smaller, more manageable bites! And it will all be connected and packaged in a gorgeous bow!
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| rosette flower headband via Bella Fleur |
So, now the most important part! What do you all think? Do you come here for the giveaways, the shops, the Give Backs... or what? :) Let me know!!
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| crochet dishcloths via Montana Daisy Girl |
and have a happy Tuesday for goodness sake! :)
Honestly, I've always thought of your blog as a review and giveaway blog. I didn't realize you had the philanthropic piece! I look forward to seeing more of it.
ReplyDeleteI like the giveaways and I like seeing unique things I can give as gifts. But I also liked the idea of giving back. Like you, things have a tendency to get really busy and I'm looking forward to seeing what you have in mind for the little things we can do to make a difference.
ReplyDeleteRhonda
Bethany, through your fantastic features, honest and relevant reviews, and fabulous giveaways, I've gotten to discover so many wonderful artists/merchants in the indie world, as well as other great bloggers and lifestyle resources. But, as I've told you personally before, I come back to your blog as a dedicated Ivy Twines reader and follower particularly because I so appreciate and am inspired by your integrity and philanthropic efforts. It's so evident that you care about your readers and what you post - you almost always have a question at the end of your posts to engage your readers (like this one!), and again it is totally appreciated. I'm really looking forward to these "smaller Give Back bites" - I think it's a great idea!
ReplyDeleteI have no doubt that you'll keep up the awesome work, girlfriend! Cheers!
Thanks for the feedback ladies!
ReplyDeleteMarianne, how is your blog set up going? Keep me posted!!!! :)
Best!
Bethany