Monday, October 17, 2011

Featuring Jewelry Designer, Creator, and Repairer: Jaime Fountain





















(*At the bottom of this interview you will find the rules for a drawing to win the pink and black bracelet and earrings pictured to the left!)

Today I would like to share a little bit about my dear friend, Jaime, who is just amazing! Together we have had some great laughs, shared a few tears, drank a lot of coffee, and stayed up WAY too late! I would say that a vein of sarcasm runs through our relationship, which allows us to get away with a lot and, surprisingly, share a lot. Although she might seem quiet at first, if you spend any amount of time with her, you will find that conversation comes easily, especially if you get her talking about her kids! They provide her with ample stories to share and many that you mommies can relate to! So on with the interview:

(Wherever you see "FHB" it is just an abbreviation for Fruitful Hands Boutique.)
(Also, most comments in the parenthesis are written by me - Kathy!)


What do you create for FHB?
Smiles, happy customers. Seriously, I make jewelry all custom, mostly made to order and I also do paychecks (accounting). (Jaime has been doing my books for over a year now. If you want a recommendation, let me know!)

How long have you been making this awesome creation of yours?
I started taking classes about 6-7 years ago but just started really making items a little over a year ago. (Jaime has made numerous custom designed pieces for me - I LOVE them!)

Why do you create what you create?
I love making jewelry that is unique, that people will look at and see beauty but not have to break the bank to get it.

How did you find out about FHB?
I'm friends with the owner. (That's me!!)

Why did you choose to sell through FHB?
The owner is an amazing woman and entrepreneur, I love that she gives so much of herself physically, mentally and monetarily (with donation). Plus it gives me the chance to create and gives Kathy the opportunity to be the amazing salesperson she is. (Um, blushing!!)
(Oh, and did you know that 10% of every sale from FHB goes directly to Bethany Christian Services - an adoption and foster care agency? Well, it does. Now you know.)

What other creations/crafts would you like to try your hand at?
I will be trying candles and soaps soon. I would love to try lots of things but staying focused on a few items makes my creations and my bank account better.

What is your favorite item for sale right now on FHB?
How can I pick just one? I must say as a fellow jewelry creator I love ALL of the earrings and bracelets and some of the necklaces by international sanctuary. Funny, since I never accessorize, not even with what I make!

What would you like to see more of on FHB?
I think FHB has a good mix, but maybe more items for boys/men.

Favorite Food?
Sushi
(Yep! Me too!)

Favorite Scripture?
1 Corinthians 13:4
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.

Tell us a little more about yourself and your family.
I am a full time stay at home mother, student, wife and everything that goes along with those titles. I am the mother of four amazing children, I have been married to a wonderful man for close to 7 years and I am a student working toward a bachelors in accounting. I love reading, animals, spending time with my family, anything outdoors and crafting.

What is one cause you are passionate about?
I am a bleeding heart when it comes to animals the evidence proves it. Three dogs and a cat with a new cat family being fostered: a mother and two kittens.

Any other business ventures you are a part of?
In my spare time, wink wink nudge nudge, I sell children's clothing and items, and I am looking for more accounting clients. I do payroll, receivables, payables, checks and registers.
(Jaime runs a business from her home: Fountain of Youth Consignment. You can find her on facebook. She does this in her spare time, of which she has none. I can vouch for that!)

Anything else you would like the FHB community to know about you?
I guarantee all of my jewelry by offering free repairs and I repair other's jewelry for a nominal fee, plus I prefer custom order jewelry. If you can think it I can make it!


So now it's your turn! We would love to hear your comments, questions, or encouraging words. Either leave a comment on this blog or (if that isn't working for you as you) under the Fruitful Hands Boutique facebook status that referred you here. Even if you just go back and "like" the status about this blog, we'll enter you!
On Monday, October 24th, at 7:00 pm, there will be a random drawing of all who have "liked" or commented regarding this blog and I will announce the winner shortly after! The winner will receive the pink and black bracelet and earrings set pictured below!

















Refreshing FHB

We are quickly approaching the 2 year anniversary of the Fruitful Hands Boutique. I officially started handing out business cards on Thanksgiving day, 2009. Since that day, so many wonderful things have happened. I have made many new friendships and have seen some amazing talent come through this lovely little boutique! This summer and even into the new school year, I saw a major slow down. Hmm...could be that life got a little busy for our family! Running a small business by yourself can be the greatest thing (flexibility) and the worst thing (no one works if you don't)!

Life hasn't slowed down here. As a matter of fact, I'd say it's probably gotten busier! We are in the process of packing up our home of 9 + years and moving to another home just a few neighborhoods away! So exciting! And yet during this very busy time, I am feeling the need to refresh the Fruitful Hands Boutique. It has been neglected far too long. So keep an eye out for giveaways, promotions, interviews, and new items. It's going to be an exciting time! Comments, questions, and encouragement are greatly appreciated either here, on facebook (just search for Fruitful Hands Boutique), or send me an email (klynncragin@yahoo.com). You can also call or text me at (209) 614-3746.

Check out some of these wonderful items currently in stock:



Jewelry by Jaime












Jewelry from isanctuary











Scrabble Tile Necklaces by Melanie









Headbands by Kaitlin










Hair Clips by Alyssa










Bibs by Jennifer










Nursing Covers by Rosel









Scrubbies by Alice








Towels by Dot








Custom hand-drawn cards by Kathy