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Saturday, November 30, 2013

50 (or less) shades of Candy Canes

I am not a huge fan of candy canes. It is the season for them though.

I thought I would share all the ways to eat candy canes :)



Hot chocolate is a wonderful way to enjoy them!! You can find this at:
https://www.etsy.com/shop/trio3


GMMB December Donut of the Month ~ Discounted Price ~ Candy Cane mini donuts

Who doesn't like a good donut!! YUM!!
These can be found at https://www.etsy.com/shop/GreenMntMiniBaked

Pink Candy Cane Fudge - 1 Pound (About 18 Pieces)

Fudge is always a good thing as well!!! I could eat myself sick with this!! :)
You can purchase this at: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SmashCandies


Peppermint Candy Cane Marshmallows - 1 dozen Gourmet homemade marshmallows

A good handmade marshmallow is a tasty treat!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/SweetJumbles

Smooth And Creamy With a little Crunch Peppermint Candy Cane Fudge One Pound (1 lb) 16 oz Yummy Creamy Gourmet Fudge

A good bark is worth every bite!! :) LOL
https://www.etsy.com/shop/NomNomNomFudge


Chocolate Covered Candy Canes in a Christmas Tin

I'd try them!! They look amazing!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/KnotTheOrdinary


Cake Balls: Candy Crush Candy Cane Cake Bitty Bites. Christmas Gift. Cake pop/candy cake truffle

Cake balls - one of my VERY favorites!!!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/BittyBlissBakeShop



NEW - 3 Natural peppermint flavored lollipops with pie crust wreaths, candy cane pieces and holly candies

These are just cute! What a great gift!!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/asecretforest



Candy Cane / Holly Sugar Cookies with Buttercream Frosting

Everyone can appreciate a good cookie!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/parchmentcookies


Cocktail rim sugar - candy cane flavored sugar for rimming martinis, holiday drinks

Now this is definitely the way to eat candy canes!! I could totally get behind them all the way on this route!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/dellcovespices



Cutie Candy Cane Peppermint Buttercreme Limited Edition Jar Cakes - 4 pack

Frosting is ALWAYS good!!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/tookies

ON SALE Gourmet Candy Cane Caramels

Who could forget caramels? Not me, as I sell them - yes, these are mine! :)
www.thestickywrapper.etsy.com


Candy Cane Hot Chocolate on a Stick

This just looks like a fun treat! Kids would LOVE this!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/BellaRoseChocolates



25 Holiday Fortune Cookies, Candy Cane, Christmas, Holiday Parties, Xmas, New Year, Edibles, Christmas Party, Cookies, Cookie Exchange

We love fortune cookies in our house. These would be gone in no time flat!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/PixiesSweetTreats


Candy Cane Flavored Coffee 1 lb.

I can't forget coffee - my all time favorite thing!!!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/RubyCoffeeRoaster


TEA - CHRISTMAS TEA - Candy Cane Kiss - (Specialty Black Tea) -- 2oz. bag

You can't post coffee and not tea- this looks very delish!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/TeaForAllReasons

Ok- I am craving sweets now. I gotta go find some water to drink and drown my sweet tooth!!



Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Gluten Free stuffing

I am hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year. I am excited. I love having people over. It does stress out the man though. Our house is not a large one. :)

My sister is gluten free and super strict about her diet. Her favorite Holiday food unfortunately is stuffing. :)

Have no fear though, I have it covered!!

I ordered gluten free croutons from http://edenstouchbread.com/

Gluten Free Italian Herb Croutons

I ordered the Italian herb flavored. My stuffing is going to ROCK!!! I can't wait to post pictures of it for you to see.


What dish will you be looking forward to???

Thursday, November 21, 2013

The Question of Store Sites

It is FREEZING cold here - literally. I think it's like 26 degrees out right now. We are not used to it being that cold! Brrrrrrrr (I am sitting here shivering in 5 layers of clothes. - Yes, we have heat - trying to keep the bill in check, LOL)

I recently got a list of sites to sell and promote on that don't charge or have low fees. It took me a few days, but I got through the list. There weren't many that were appropriate for selling edibles.

I did sign up for a few, although my luck with new sites has not been good.

I signed up on www.lilyshop.com

This was a blog type site with a market place. Unfortunately, the marketplace was shut down. Too much expensive is my understanding. :( The site itself is really cool though. Very attractive visually.

I was also on www.zaarly.com

I was excited for this site, as it was local with a lot of nice perks. Unfortunately, they switched formats, right as I reached the point I could use all the perks. They went from a goods marketplace to a service based marketplace.

I looked around storenvy.com

I like the pricing and layout. I don't really get a handmade feel from the site though. So, I am hesitant to set up my shop there.

I did find a really cool site for edibles. :)
http://fooducopia.com/the-sticky-wrapper-4309


It's pricey to sell on here and I am not sure how much traffic there is. I haven't been really pushing the site - as the seller fees are pretty high. The site concept is really cool though.

I know Etsy has it's issues, but aside from those. I like selling there. The fees are reasonable and my shop gets a fair amount of traffic.

I do need to check out Square Market place and I like http://www.indiemade.com/ They have a reasonable monthly fee. I hope to sign up there after the new year.

I know a lot of people use Artfire and Shopify :)

What say you all??? What site or sites do you prefer?

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

Featured Artist - Lottie's Trinkets

Featured Artist Jewelry HandcraftedFeatured Artist

Lotties Trinkets

Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite

This Weeks Featured Artist on Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite is Lise Spence-Parsons of Lotties Trinets! Truly one of a kind designs can be found at Lise's Shop!
Find Lise On:
Website Facebook Blog Twitter Grab the Code for your Blog HERE

Monday, November 18, 2013

Advertising

This year, I have noticed there is a lot of similar products out there. I could not tell you how many shops on Etsy sell salted caramels. There are a lot! (maybe 15 or so. ) What do you do to stand out? How do you get people to shop in your store and not the competition? Especially at this time of year.

As I am not into playing dirty or anything like that, and I have a super small budget (don't we all?? ) I am making little ads and placing them on social media!

This one is obviously for Thanksgiving. I had a lot of fun making it!!

I also made my cyber Monday one. I haven't posted this one anywhere yet, so this is a sneak peek.

I wasted SO much time trying to figure out photoshop. I still want to learn how to use it and utilize my program. I used publisher for these. IT was quick, easy, and I had SO much fun!

I am going to make banners for my shop and FB pages today I think. :)

Friday, November 15, 2013

The Wacky Cookie Company

Now, I realize there are a lot of cookie makers out there. Some of them are super talented with the artistic side of it.

I have tasted my fair share of cookies. (about 20lbs of me or so. LOL) This is one of the best I have found so far. :)

http://www.wackycookies.com

Her cookies are beautiful and taste amazing! Her customer service is simply amazing!



My brother in law is a huge Star Wars nut!



We bought the following and I got them and sat and ate almost the whole bag - they are addicting!!





I just love her and her cookies!

She also has these totally amazing  CookieBurgers



These little bites of goodness are just to die for!

If you are looking for a good cookie be sure to head over the Wacky Cookie Site!!!!

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Featured Artist Yarned Together

This shop has so many cute things! This should be on the top of your list to visit for gifts!!


Yarned Together Featured Artist

Featured Artist Yarned Together

This Weeks Featured Artist on Share the Love, Blogger’s Unite is Lynette Long of Yarned Together!
Find Yarned Together On: Etsy Zibbet Blog Twitter Pinterest
Are you On Fire for Handmade? http://onfireforhandmade.com 
Shop at On Fire Gift Guide! https://onfiregiftguide.com

Monday, November 11, 2013

Hard to buy for???

My grandmother can not walk and doesn't leave her house. She doesn't have many interested outside sports. She doesn't like having pictures, knick knacks etc around her house.

Every Christmas for as long as I can remember, we have bought her a food gift basket with meat and cheeses in it. Last year, she decided it was too much and threw it out, or gave it away. #SMH
I couldn't believe it. She doesn't eat much and that stuff lasts for a REALLY long time.

My mom called me to see about getting little things from other small businesses online. (YUP! I have converted my mom to shop small! )

This is what I am thinking for her gift basket.

Kahlua Spice Pecans

https://www.etsy.com/listing/162519882/kahlua-spice-pecans?ref=related-3

These look so good. I might make her share!!! I love this shop.

Crispy, sweet   Basil Parmesan Tomato slices - Gluten free - crust free Pizza

https://www.etsy.com/listing/150729085/crispy-sweet-basil-parmesan-tomato?ref=cat2_gallery_32

These look good, plus a little healthy. As my grandmother doesn't eat very well, I was thinking I could sneak a few vitamins in. LOL
Bison Tracks 4 oz. Resealable Bag

https://www.etsy.com/listing/94595236/bison-tracks-4-oz-resealable-bag?ref=cat2_gallery_30

My grandmother has always loved game, so this would be a great treat for her!! It looks wonderful!


Toffee - your choice of flavor

Chocolate Ancho Chili Caramels

And since it IS my grandmother, I will throw in some of my own sweets. :)

Oh wait- I wanted to also get some fresh bread and something to put on it.....

9 Gourmet Mini Loaves - You Choose

A few different flavors that she can store in the fridge, OR even better - I can keep myself. :)

and to put on the bread....

8 oz Ginger Pecan Butter

Oh yea baby! I have been dying to try these (and her croutons) FOR EVER!!!

Now, I just have to present to my mom and see what she thinks. I kinda like it. But it IS my idea. HAHAHA

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Networking

I am sure many of you small business owners use Facebook to help promote your shops. Facebook is free, everyone uses it, and it's everywhere. :)

I am feeling alittle like I am wasting my time with it lately. Posts just don't get seen. I have a lot of likes on my page.


The Sticky Wrapper
 
 
Sadly, I am lucky if I get more then 100 people to see anything I post.
 
Photo: A fun Autumn DIY gift 1 Fine Cookie created with Kernel Season's Popcorn Seasoning:  Caramel Apple Treats

Click "share" to save this recipe to your Facebook wall.
"Like" Kernel Season's Popcorn Seasoning page
Visit: http://www.kernelseasons.com/

Apple picking is a tried and true autumn tradition and favorite pastime among many. However, each fall many of us are faced with the same problem of having too many apples and not enough 
uses for them. This year, instead of watching these crisp and tart fruits go to waste, why not create some fun gifts for the holidays. These DIY caramel apple treats make great gifts for the host of a party, your neighbors, teachers, family members and even your mail carrier. And I can guarantee that they will all gladly accept a basket of these delectable holiday treats. 
 
Take traditional caramel apple treats and toss some fun onto them. Coat them not only in your favorite toppings, but try a little popcorn and Kernel Season’s™ sweet popcorn seasonings, such as Milk Chocolate Caramel or Caramel to add an extra pop of flavor. 
 
Ingredients 
- 1 cup light corn syrup 
- 3 cups sugar 
- 1 cup heavy cream 
- Apples 
- Popsicle sticks or sturdy skewers 
 
Possible Toppings 
- Almonds or other nuts 
- Mini peanut butter cups 
- Coconut flakes 
- Peanut butter or chocolate chips 
- Freshly popped popcorn like Kernel Season’s™ Premium Popping Corn 
- Kernel Season’s™ Popcorn Seasonings 
 
1. Combine sugar and corn syrup in a saucepan. Heat on stove at medium high until it is bubbling and has turned a golden brown hue, about 10-15 minutes. Remove from stove and allow to cool for a few minutes. Begin to slowly pour heavy cream into cooked sugar, whisking quickly until fully combined. 
2. Wash and dry apples. Stab a popsicle stick into each apple and dip into caramel once it has thickened. Roll into various toppings. 
3. Place apples in refrigerator immediately after dipping. If you find that the caramel is falling off of the apple, it may need to cool more. You can also pop apples in freezer immediately after dipping to strengthen caramel hold. Only leave it for a short period of time, as you do not want to completely freeze the apples or topping. 
4. Variation: A way to involve kids in this project is to slice up apples, fully submerge in caramel and lay down on aluminum foil.  Allow children to sprinkle and press whatever fun toppings they prefer onto caramel. These do not last as long, so if you would like to use the caramel apple slices as gifts, make as close to time of consumption as possible. Caramel apple slices are perfect as an afternoon snack; a food “decorating” project at holiday gatherings to busy little ones, and as gifts for children 
5. Once the caramel apples have hardened, place in cellophane treat bags and tie with ribbons. You can hand out each individually as a small gift or favor, or place them all into a basket for a wonderful gift basket. The caramel apple slices should be wrapped in parchment paper then given in a small candy box purchased at an arts and crafts store. Tie with baker’s twine. Remember to store apples in refrigerator until bestowing unto the recipient or eating. 
 
Some possible flavor combinations: 
• Triple caramel threat - Toss some popcorn with a little Kernel Season’s Caramel seasoning. Then, dip them into the caramel mixture and allow to cool on a sheet of aluminum foil. Dip apple in caramel and roll in caramel popcorn. Add some chocolate chips for a touch of color and variety in flavor. Chocoholics are missing out on this caramel gooey goodness! 
• Nutty peanut butter cups - Chop up mini peanut butter cups and mix with almonds or your favorite nuts. Dip apple in caramel then roll into nuts and cups. This version is a peanut butter lover’s dream. 
• Zagnuts Apple - Combine peanut butter chips and coconut flakes in a bowl. Dip apple and roll into mixture. The coconut adds a nice texture and pop of interesting flavor sure to please any foodie. 
• Milk Chocolate Popcorn Party - Revisit childhood with this milk chocolate and popcorn combination. Dip apples in caramel then roll into freshly popped plain popcorn. Then, shake on some Kernel Season’s Milk Chocolate Caramel seasoning.
Like · ·
  • The Sticky Wrapper
13 people? really???
 
Then, there are some posts that get a little more
 
Photo: The woman behind the caramels - in case anyone was curious ;)
 
157 people saw this post
 
Yes, that is my picture. 
 
  I do not see the pattern on why some post do better then others. I can stick the link in the comment and I get similar results. It's frustrating and a little crazy. I get they need to make money, but to switch things up so drastically???
 
So, I feel like my time would be better spent on other sites. I will spend more time on Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and try to figure out Google Plus. :)
 
Does anyone have any words of  wisdom??? :)