In My Haven: August 24
This week in my haven school started back up, which gave me a lot of uninterrupted sewing time. It was a good thing too because I have been working on a huge custom order, which I'll share more about eventually. Starting school has also meant establishing new routines. As I mentioned to a couple friends this week, January first doesn't feel like the start of a new year to me as much as the first day of school does. Since it's time for my household to settle into a new schedule, it also feels like the right time for Haven Handmade to set some new goals and make plans.
While I was sewing multiples of the same design this week, my brain had the space to ponder how I'm going to make this a great year for Haven Handmade. One thing I decided I want to do is add more structure, routine, and consistency to how I share what's happening with Haven Handmade. I'm pretty good about posting this journal regularly, but I'm less consistent about posting to social media or having regular shop updates. (You may have noticed that the only things I posted to Instagram this week were a few things in my Stories, where I tend to share somewhat random, candid moments.) I'm sure this is not helping me reach my goals for increasing the number of email subscribers and social media followers I have. I don't want to feel like I'm tied to a rigid posting schedule, but I also want my messaging to be more consistent, cohesive and compelling. I'm hoping my plan will help me find the right balance, since I actually really thrive on having regular routines and schedules.
I'm going to start putting this plan into action on September first, one week from now. That's the good news. The bad news is that I'm delaying the release of my first fall design by a week so that I can prepare a little better. But there's more good news! Next week, all email subscribers to In My Haven will be entered into a drawing for a $25 gift card to the Haven Handmade shop. If you're not already on the email list, now's the time to join so that you don't miss out on the giveaway or on any of the new content I'm planning.
Moments from My Haven
First Row: 1. Joanna on the first day of 4th grade, wearing the dress we worked on sewing together. 2. I kept cool while sewing by drinking iced coffee from my Chicago Sews tumbler. 3. Minnie curled up for a nap on the ottoman cover that I am filling with fabric scraps so that they are repurposed in a useful way.
Second Row: 1. When it's 100 degrees outside, the only outfit that will work is the Orchard Dress, a free pattern from Helen's Closet. 2. Even after years and years of sewing, I still have to use a seam ripper from time to time. 3. A progress photo of my French jacket from last weekend’s Chicago Sews meet up.
More From My Haven
This section of In My Haven is going to be changing next week, but it will still be a space for me to share more about what's happening beyond the business, such as insightful articles, recipe suggestions, and personal reflections. It will rotate through four different themes: Heart, Head, Hands, and Hospitality. I'll be sharing reflections and resources to help nurture our emotions, our practical lives, our creativity, and our relationships. It will also, hopefully, give you some insight into the driving forces behind the designs and handmade products that I make. I plan to share not just what I do, but why I do it.
Gift Card Giveaway
All In My Haven email subscribers will be entered in a monthly drawing for a $25 gift card to the Haven Handmade shop! Make sure you're on the email list for your chance to win. The next winner will be chosen on September 1, 2023.
What's happening in your haven this week?
Warmly,
Beth
Disclosure: The links in this post are not affiliate links. I do not receive any compensation for the recommendations I make in my journal. It's just a place where I can write about what I like and think you might too.
