Win a sample set of the new good witch/bad witch Halloween collection!

Contest will start 10/10/11 and run through 10/16/11. Winners will be announced on the following Monday.

Prizes:

The winner will receive one sample set of our new good witch/bad witch Halloween duochrome sparkle collection, which includes four good witch inspired colors, and four bad witch inspired colors.

Instructions:

Follow @DarkHeartDesign on twitter.
Tweet the following: “ I entered to win a good witch/bad witch shadow sample set!  Follow @DarkHeartDesign & retweet to enter. Rules: http://bit.ly/odwkZC #winDHD   ”

Rules:

This contest is open to all participants.
Winner will be picked randomly.
Your tweet must include the @reply of @darkheartdesign, and #winDHD hash tag in order to be entered
One entry per person.
Do not create another account to enter.
Do not retweet the contest tweet more than once.
We reserve the right to disqualify any entry.

This contest is not endorsed, or associated with twitter.

Dark Heart is Back!

It’s been a long while, but I’m finally back on my feet enough to make things better. I’m sorry to everyone that was upset and/or disappointed during the Heartsy sale, for any reason. I now aim to use that experience, and never, ever make the same mistake again. Here’s how I’m going to change that.

Ordering:

We will no longer take “orders”. If the items are not already made, labeled, and sealed, they will not be in the shop. You will not have to wait for anything to be prepared for you order, unless it is a custom order. For those arrangements, we will not accept payment until the order is completed, and ready to send (if it is a large or special order, we may ask for partial payment to replace supplies, should you decide to cancel your order before completion).

 

Turn around time & shipping:

In order to stay on top of orders, and have a reasonable amount of time between the date of your order, and the date of its shipment, we’re implementing a new policy. From now on, any order that is placed will ship within four business days of it’s purchase date. If your order does not ship within four days, you will receive a full refund, and you order will still be shipped within a reasonable time.  The only time that this policy will not be in effect, is during events that are beyond our control, such as natural disasters, a death in the family, or a health problem that is severe enough to stop me from being able to run my business. In any of theses instances, I will do whatever I can to close the shop before, or directly after they occur.

 

 

Customer Service:

I will still be handling some customer service communication, such as how to order, when an item will be back in stock, if a custom item or order can be made, etc. All other communications will be answered by our new customer service rep so that all conversations will remain professional.

 

 

In other news, we’ve finally opened the new shop! We’re working on stocking all of our items for order, so that they may be shipped out right away. Please take a moment to check it out, and let me know what you think: http://darkheartdesigns.storenvy.com

Dark Heart & Heartsy: Where it all went wrong…

First off, I would like to thank Ana of Lipsticks and Lightsabers for bringing some of the issues to my attention, so I can respond to them.

Now, down to business. First off, I am sincerely sorry, beyond words, for the amount of time that everyone has had to wait to receive their orders from the Heartsy deal. I feel terrible that you have all had to wait, and that, for most of you, this is the first experience you’ll have with my shop. I want to take a moment to explain how all this mess happened.

 

Duh Moment #1:

 

 

My company is not a very big one, even by indie standards. My shop opened in March of 2010, and I’ve had 199 sales from that date, until now. Here’s where the duh part starts. 199 sales from March of 2010 until August of 2011 divides out to about 11 orders a month. I can handle that number with no problem, but, I didn’t think to work out these numbers before I signed up for the sale. I’ve learned my lesson on what I can, and can’t handle, and I apologize to everyone that I had to learn the hard way.

 

The Heartsy mess:

 

 

I’ve attached the original email from Heartsy to this post, to explain why I foolishly offered so many vouchers from my shop. If you’ll notice in the paragraph numbered 1, the Heartsy representative explains how many vouchers are usually offered, and that I’m highly unlikely to sell all my vouchers. Given this statement, and the fact that my goal of going on Heartsy is to draw more exposure for my shop, I decide I need to offer more than 75, just to get that exposure. Due to the statement from the representative that few sellers sell out, I get the impression that it’s safe to offer 150 vouchers. I finalize everything with Heartsy, and my offer is ready to go live.

 

Now this is where it really gets messy:

 

This is an excerpt from an email that Heartsy sent me on how to set up vouchers. I follow the instructions, and my deal starts. After receiving 9 pages of orders (pages, not orders. Each page averages about 6-10 orders), I received another email from Heartsy, stating that they didn’t realize my shop was an Artfire shop, not an Etsy shop, although in previous emails, they made statements that suggest that had looked at my shop. In the middle of my deal, with orders rolling in left and right, I’m told to change the entire checkout process. I responded to the email, as I’ve had no problem with orders so far, and this is a reply from the Heartsy rep:

 

 

After this, I change my checkout from manually approving the order, to having customers use coupon codes. Half of the time the coupon codes don’t work, and I still have to manually approve, and fix orders. During this time, I’m also answering emails from confused customers, as everything has changed. In the middle of taking care of this, I realize I can no longer track the Heartsy vouchers because half of my orders have voucher numbers, and the rest use a coupon codes. The paperwork side of my deal becomes an absolute clusterf*ck that takes me two weeks to somewhat sort through the mess, as much as I possibly can.

Why didn’t I worry about the amount of orders I was getting during this time? I love filling orders, and I still didn’t realize how out of hand it was going to be. I was actually excited, and thought I was doing something good.

 

Filling orders:

 

 

After I managed to sort all of the paperwork out, I was also ordering the supplies to fill all of the orders. When they finally arrived, I started filling orders. I get through about two pages, and realize I’m in way over my head. With my discounted deal, my orders average to 3 jars per order, although there are more that have 4. This is approximately 300 jars. I’ve been filling, packing, and shipping orders as fast as I can, with the few hours I have to spend after work everyday, and usually all weekend. I really feel like I’m not getting through the orders at all, and I know everyone is waiting for them.

 

The Gel Liners:

 

 

The gel liners were made during the time that I was waiting for supplies to fill the orders. I listed them in between filling orders, when my hands were hurting me, and I needed a break. I apologize if this appeared to take time away from anyone’s order. I promise you, it did not.

 

Why I didn’t close the shop:

 

I realize now, that I probably should have done this anyway, but at the time I was getting no orders, besides Heartsy voucher orders. I changed a statement in my shop to reflect the extended ship time, as I still wanted to be able to get the Heartsy orders on my list, so I knew what I had to fill, and ship off. I apologize if this gave anyone the impression that I was taking orders outside of the vouchers, and shipping them first. Both of my shops remained open, but any orders that were placed are in line after the Heartsy orders.

 

My final statement:

 

I realize that I have handled my Heartsy deal poorly. To everyone that was effected, I am extremely sorry. I apologize for any wait that you may have had to endure, for any distress or anger you may have towards me, or my company, or anything else that you feel I may have done wrong, or handled poorly. I hope you can forgive me, as I sincerely did not mean to disappoint anyone. I have learned very much from this sale, and I appreciate everything that everyone has done for me, and my company, and I hope you’ll accept my apology. Thank you for your business, your patience, your advice, and your help through this deal. I’m hoping to have the last of it finished very soon, and I hope I haven’t disappointed you all too much, because I know without my customers, I have nothing. Thank, and I’m sorry again.

-Tina

5 Beauty Videos You Must Watch

1. Cosmetic Viking: Pixie Epoxy

If you’ve ever wonder what eye shadow primer, or Pixie Epoxy is, and how to apply it, just ask Brian of Cosmetic Viking! In his video, Brian explains a little about primers, how to use them, and what they do.

 

2. Enkore: Colorants 1 & 2

Have you ever wonder what your eye shadows are made of? Koren Zander of Enkore Make up explains different types of pigments, their uses, how they react to water (which has been a somewhat popular scandal with pigments and some make up companies), and other valuable information. It’s a recommended watch for anyone who buys indie make up

Part 1

part 2

3. Glitter Glossary: Clean Brushes

Keeping your tools clean is an important part of keeping bacteria out of your cosmetics. This video from Elle Fowler is a nice little example of how to clean your brushes. Especially good for beginners!

4. Expert Village: How to Apply Mineral Make Up

This is great beginner tutorial for anyone who hasn’t used mineral make up before. It has a nice demonstration of how to get the most from your mineral application.

5. Petrilude: How To Use Pigments

Josh or Petrilude has an excellent video on pigments, and all the fun things you can do with him. It’s a great video to learn a little more about your make up, and to get some fun, unusual idea. Definitely a must watch in my book.

I hope you all liked the videos! If you know any good ones you think everyone should watch, just add them to the comments.

-Tina

Other Uses for Loose Eye Shadow Pigments

It was recently brought to my attention by April of Blacksburg Belle, that most people might not know that eye shadows can be used for more than just your eyes. Now, this is the important part: you need to be very certain that your eye shadows are approved for use on other areas of your face!

Our Dark Heart Designs eye shadows are approved for use on lips, eyes, face, and nails. Here’s a few simple ideas:

Lips: Mix your eye shadow with lip gloss or lipstick for a sparkly, shiny lip

Face: Shadows can be used as a different color blush, or to create fancy designs, like I’ve done here:

Nails: Add your shadows to clear or colored nail polish to make a new color, or change the shade of one you already have.

Here’s a few videos to help you get an idea on other uses for our shadows:

Petrilude’s video on how to use pigments:

One way to use pigments in nail polish:

 

I hope this post gives you some ideas on all the uses for our eye shadows. Please be aware that this post is only for Dark Heart Designs shadows. If you’re going to use another brand, please make sure that it is approved for the area you’ll be using it in. Thanks for reading everyone!

-Tina

An Interview with Ashley Pahl of Indie Pretty Projects

An excerpt from Ashley’s blog page; About me:

My love for the handmade community has its roots in my childhood. My Grandma Peggy taught me at a young age how to work that construction paper with glue and cotton balls, while she was always working on a new sewing, embroidery, or baking project.

After years of painting, knitting, photography, screen printing, sculpting, sketching, and attempting to sew, I found my true love, paper, when I made my own wedding invitations.

I've been selling my own paper creations online since 2007, and began blogging shortly after. I discovered that people around the world are turning their passion into a career, and by simply making the conscious choice to buy handmade and share your finds, a whole industry can be kept afloat.

Indie Pretty Projects
http://indieprettyprojects.com

The Interview:

Favorites

Foundation: I used Bare Escentuals for a long time, but it became too pricey for my budget. Now I use tinted moisturizer, such as Neutrogena.
Blush: Benefit - Dandelion
Mascara: Dior DiorShow - I'm currently on the hunt to find a comparable drugstore brand
Eyeliner: Wet N Wild
Primer: Smashbox Photo Finish
Eyeshadow: M.A.C. - I like something with a little glitter.
Lipstick or Gloss: I don't really have a favorite - I buy something new every time. Right now I am using tinted lip balm by Burt's Bees.

Q: What was the inspiration behind Indie Pretty Projects?

A: Indie Pretty Projects started out as "Ashleybug Designs", as a companion blog to my new business on Etsy in 2007. It used to be focused on my journey as a crafter and the business tips I was learning, but I realized I enjoyed writing about the work of others much more, and decided it was time for a name change.

Q: You mention on your site that your calling is paper crafting. Why did you decide on that particular for of crafting?

A: I've tried many different mediums, but it turns out I'm a pretty impatient person. For example, I tried knitting, painting, and sewing, but I would lose interested before finishing projects. I like paper crafting because the materials are easy to come by, and I can create something very fun before I lose interest and want to move on to another idea.

Q: What inspired you to try to decrease your reliance on mass manufactured products?

A: Studying geology and geography in college introduced me the concerns of the world - over-consumption, the affects of consumerism, the affect of certain ingredients on the environment, and the idea of peak oil and its affect on grocery prices in the future. My goal is to become a more self-reliant citizen, so that I can make environmentally friendly supplies myself, or know how to make certain foods if there are ever shortages, or prices become ridiculously high.

Q: What are you like the least about buying handmade?

A: A couple of times I have had quality issues with some items, but knowing that there is a real, single person behind the product, I know that everyone makes mistakes and I never like to leave bad feedback. I don't like hurting the feelings of business owners! I know if I ever had a "complaint" it would be meant as constructive criticism, but I know how sensitive some shop owners can be. I don't expect perfection, but sometimes when something doesn't turn out how I thought it would be... I've been bummed on an occasion or two.

Q: Do you have any suggestions for consumers who are looking to buy handmade products?

A: When I started my business, I had JUST found out about Etsy, and no one I knew personally had ever heard of it. No one I knew was selling their own creations, either. I felt like I had to find my own way through the dark when starting my business, and the more I learned, the more I enjoyed it and couldn't get enough. Any time I learn something new, or if there are tips that have helped me out, I have to share them. I feel like the handmade community is a team - we all need to help each other. The more successful one shop is, I feel the more successful the rest of us will ultimately be. I don't feel like other shops like mine are competitors, they are colleagues. If they do a good job with their product and sell well, it will only encourage more people to shop handmade.

Q: How do you find time to run your own business, manage your site, and make time for your family?

A: It's all about very careful time management. During the day when my girls are awake, that is their time with me. When they are napping, that is when I work on networking or on my blog, and at night when they are in bed, that's when I work on my shop and fill orders. My business is my hobby - it's what I do for fun, it doesn't feel like work at all. My husband has his own hobbies, and when we feel we need to spend more time together, I'm pretty good at putting the crafts away and turning off the computer. I also get some time each weekend for myself to do what I need to get done.

Indie VS Commercial brands

Q: There are a lot of handmade or indie make up brands in the community now. Have you tried any of them?

A: Yes, I tried a shop that sold mineral makeup. I was pretty impressed with the concealer, but I had a hard time matching foundation to my face.

Q: Would you prefer to purchase indie or commercial brands, and why do you prefer one over the other?

A: I know I need to give indie makeup another chance. When I run low, I tend to just pickup makeup while I'm already at the store grocery shopping. It's also hard to buy makeup online, because you can't see the shade in person or test it; however, I do believe in the makeup shops on Etsy, because I'm more willing to trust an individual that I can talk to one-on-one, rather than a big company that is in it for the profits. Lip gloss is actually the next purchase I have planned on my indie shopping list.

Thank you to Ashley for taking the time to do an interview for us!

-Tina

An Interview with Kimberly of KimmieKarmaLove

An excerpt from Kimmie’s blog page; About me:

My name is Kimberly and I'm a 24 year old living the life! I live in California with my Husband and three dogs. I love color and love to wear makeup!

One of the things that motivated me to start this blog was to share the genuinely good products with other people like me. I've bought enough of the crappy stuff and wanted others to know what was out there! I also love to help indie companies get their name out there or to promote awesome products! Kimberly Marquez

KimmieKarmaLove
http://kimmiekarmalove.blogspot.com/

The Interview:

Favorites

Foundation: I don't really wear foundation a lot but when I do I love my Brazen Cosmetics foundation.
Blush: Commercial: Tarte's Blissful-Indie: Fyrinnae's Charm
Mascara: L'Oreal Collegan Elastin
Eyeliner: Maybelline Stilleto
Primer: UDPP
Eyeshadow: Fyrinnae's Darling Misfit
Lipstick or Gloss: L'Oreal HiP's Arresting

Q: How did you come up with the name KimmieKarmaLove?

A: Kimmie has always been my nickname from friends and family and I've used Karma as a screenname for games and such for as long as I can remember. I just needed something to tie them together and love worked!

Q: What made you decide to start blogging?

A: I originally started blogging to show my art journals and other things I made and when I discovered my love for makeup I had the perfect outlet!

Q: Do you have any tips for readers who want to start a blog and/or get more followers?

A: Just be yourself and be genuine. Don't try and fake anything because your readers and others bloggers will find out. People want to be able to relate to you and know that you're a real person. Good photos don't hurt either.

Q: Some issues discussed in the makeup blogosphere can attract a lot of heated debate. How do you, personally, control comment wars?

A: I try to stay out of them! I've had some comment wars on my blog and if I get involved it just gets worse. Fortunately, I also have amazing readers that have come to my defense in certain situations.

Q: What are your top three favorite blogs to read?

A: Stay Beautiful-Eyeliner and Spraypaint
Fit Foodie Finds
Confessions of a Glitterholic

Q: What are some of your favorite posts to write?

A: I love to write reviews! I get very excited about new companies and new products that I think are of great quality.

Indie VS Commercial brands

Q: Which do you prefer?

A: Indie all the way!

Q: What do you like the most about commercial brands?

A: Availability. I can easily go to many different stores to find almost anything I need.

Q: What do you like the most about indie brands?

A: I think the one thing I like most about indie brands is the fact that there are literally a million options for consumers. What you want is only limited by your imagination. I also love the fact that with indie brands I personally have the chance to get to know the person behind the brand, that really is priceless for me.

Q: What would you suggest consumers do before purchasing from an indie company?

A: Do a lot of research. You will be spending your money on a company that isn't necessarily known all over the country and it's no fun getting product that's not worth what you paid or isn't what you thought.

A big thank you to Kimberly for taking the time to do an interview for us!

-Tina