le petit elefant

Protecting Your Intellectual Property

2012-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, I had the (un)fortunate experience of dealing with copyright infringement mumbo jumbo. (Fortunate & unfortunate because while it did happen [booo!!], I definitely learned a great deal [yaaay!]).

Clink!

One of my wonderful customers brought it to my attention: "Someone shared your clink pic on Facebook and wrote their fb link on the pic... It was a blog by someone called ___. I couldn't comment on it but heaps and heaps of people shared it!! Just thought I'd let you know."

At first I didn't really get it. I just read the "heaps of people shared it" part and thought it was great! Noooo... not good. She later added, "If I did not know you were the artist I would've thought she drew it!! There was no mention of the artist at all. The people that I saw share it said it was so beautiful etc etc and I just thought it was wrong!!" OK. Whoa. Not cool.

I didn't have the url at the time, but she did give me a first name and the clue that it was on Facebook. I got my sister to help me with the detective work. She had the brilliant idea of google-image-searching the Etsy jpg url of Clink. OH. MY. GOODNESS. Literally hundreds of results came up, and after going through 60+ websites, I realized to my dismay that a small fraction actually attributed the art to me. Tumblr was actually the woooorst because it was such a crazy web of sharing and very difficult to find the original post. Also, I suppose once it's shared, the deed is done.

I felt rather conflicted--I wanted to smile from flattery and frown from feeling cheated. I messaged one blog to credit me. They replied within a couple hours with the change and apologized. They apparently found it on Google without mention of the artist (dang it!).

Back to Facebook!! My customer gave me the url and whoa! The person had pasted their blog url on nearly every photo posted, from personal self-portraits to a scene from My Neighbor Totoro. Perhaps she didn't realize her error but I was mortified to see that there were over 600+ shares, 400+ likes, and I forget how many comments. Anyway! It was a lot!

What I did to fix this:
I clicked the gear button next to the post and flagged it. At the bottom of the pop up window was an option to report it as my intellectual property. It took me to this form:

With the help, moral support, and empathetic scoffs of frustration from Polly (of Pollyannacowgirl), I filled out the form. I immediately received a copy of the report via email, and within a day, Facebook had taken it down: Thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. We have removed or disabled access to the third-party or user-generated content you have reported to us for violating our Statement of Rights & Responsibilities. VICTORY!!

Lessons learned:
I haven't always been consistent with crediting links, photos, etc. but I definitely will from now on. Now that I know how infuriating it is. It's also a little depressing because you work so hard to make something, and you share it trusting that your viewers will see & share with respect. I, like other artists, photographers, bloggers, and designers, make a living from our intellectual property so when someone doesn't acknowledge or give us proper credit, it's quite negatively impacting.

Anyway! Artist, protect & watermark you images. Folks, share with love & respect for the creator! Especially on Tumblr & Pinterest! :)

Finishing up Valentine's Day goodies

2012-01-09T16:13:00.000-08:00

Let's Spoon - print & card

Mini Valentines

And my perforated valentines are already in the shop!

Big Spoon/Little Spoon

2012-01-03T17:03:00.001-08:00

So nice to meet you, 2012!

2012-01-03T13:09:00.000-08:00

Yay! First 2012 post.

This year will be grand, epic, & with an intention to prepare for the changes in 2013. Let me explain!

Some time ago I learned about a friend's friend's lifestyle: two years of work, two years of play. For two years, she worked nonstop having typically 2-3 jobs at a time. Then she traveled for the next two years, burden-free & using the money she earned. Rinse repeat. I remember thinking her approach was GENIUS. What a good way to make yourself work & travel to find balance. Without meaning to I've adopted a similar lifestyle, & 2013 marks the beginning of PLAY! So, my overall 2012 mission (should I choose to accept [just saw Ghost Protocol & it's so good!!]) is to prepare & change my business into one I can take AND leave for my open-ended travels in 2013.

I wasn't sure if this was something worth sharing on my blog (and perhaps it isn't), but I figured it may be interesting to someone starting her own business. Developing product and marketing is important and key, but finessing the business model and altering it here and there to nurture growth is a project on its own and just as important. I also think intention-setting is sooooo necessary. I do it as often as I can, just to make sure I'm always doing what makes me happy (because sometimes it changes!). I also take it very seriously... enough to design it in illustrator and print it on pretty paper and tape in all my planners and post on my bulletin board. Yup. Intentions. If you don't have 'em, get some!

Anyway! Looking back (ha to three days ago), 2011 was about testing the waters--I visited Hong Kong for two weeks, and I participated in several craft fairs in multiple states & cities, traveling by train, on foot, subway, car & plane. I survived! Now that I know I can handle a high volume of work in a limited space and/or time, I've been going through my day-to-day business tasks with a fine comb, looking for ways to be more efficient. So far, I've found solutions in online postage, using a program like Quickbooks for my finances, delegating website updates to my sister, having Kevin work fairs for me, and hiring an intern. I've made visual graphs (like WHOA) of my finances and earnings to pinpoint the lows & highs so I know when/what to expect & schedule accordingly. I've set monthly target financial goals (an idea I borrowed from Modern Mouse), so I don't have to worry too much about 'making enough money', or can easily decide if I haaaave to do that craft fair.

I'm really excited to see how I will shift my business into one that is nomadic-friendly. I'm open to any suggestions or ideas if you have any!

And on another note, my personal greatest happenings in 2011 (in no particular order):

Disney! WOW. Dream come true... that I legally cannot elaborate on. Just. Wait. For. It!
Modern Mouse - the most perfect part-time supplement/compliment to my full-time business. I feel like I've known the folks for years.
Summer Craft Tour - I learned that travel and business DO MIX, and rather well, too! It was a good lesson in honoring my limits, and staying grounded in the constant movement.
Kevin, the boyfriend. Heeyyyyyyyy.
Hong Kong - my passion can support my wanderlust
Delivering Happiness - I know it seems strange to put a book on the list but it seriously blew my mind and made me think about business in a new light. I highly recommend it. It was an even greater treat because after I finished listening to the audiobook, Jenn (Delivering Happiness CEO) came into the store and we briefly chatted about it. GEEK OUT.

Happy New Year all. Seriously. It's going to kick major booty.

My Toys

2011-12-29T10:29:00.000-08:00

(left to right) aardman's shaun the sheep; lady & the tramp; the little mermaid; le petit prince; pixar's trademark bouncy ball; goofy; smee from captain hook.

I was dusting my bookshelf and forgot I had such a comprehensive collection of toys from my favorite... everything! Away in a box somewhere is my complete collection of The Incredibles McDonald's Happy Meal toys. I also have a Pixar lamp, a Where the Wild Things Are plush backpack, a Wallace & Gromit puzzle, a Ponyo paper wind-up toy, and a Wall-E tote bag. HUGE NERD.

And this is my small but meaningful elephant collection. The center guy is the first elephant I've ever sewn. He's what started it all! Then the other elephants are from either my or a friend's travels in Prague, India, Mexico, and Vietnam.

That's all. I just felt like sharing. I'm feeling like a kid today.

Starting Early This Year....

2011-12-28T23:38:00.000-08:00

New Valentine's Day cards in progress!

Merry Christmas, Zachary

2011-12-21T11:41:00.000-08:00

A mom messaged me on Etsy asking if I could sew a plush letter Z for her son. I wasn't taking orders for the rest of the year but I decided to make this special case my one exception. A couple days ago, she shared the letter Zachary wrote to Santa:

Dear Santa, I want a stuffed letter Z for Christmas. My name Zachary starts with a letter z. Z is for Zachary. I want a Z because it is a Ziggy Zaggy letter.Do you know I go to bed for Santa Claus to come and I make that zzzzzz sound? Love Zachary

Dawwwwwwwwwwwwwwww :)

The Z is on his way!

Renegade Craft Fair SF!

2011-12-16T10:20:00.000-08:00

Hoorah hoorah! If find yourself in the Bay Area & still in need of presents this weekend, hop on over to Renegade Craft Fair at the Concourse Exhibition Center (620 7th St) in San Francisco! This is the last fair of of my show season and I feel like this may be THE BIG ONE (lol).

I'll be sharing my booth (#45 upstairs) with Faheema of Unicorn Crafts again so get ready for a cute overload! My dear friends Small Adventure, Janie XY, Casa Murriguez, Homako, and many more will be out and selling their goodies. Show some love & give the gift of handmade! There will also be the usual DIY crafts, photobooth, DJ and food galore :)

I can't thank ya'll enough for the love this year. See you this weekend!

Unique LA!!

2011-12-06T14:47:00.001-08:00

Wow what a wee(eeee!)kend! The best ever yet! As you can tell from the quiet of my blog, I've been busy preparing for the upcoming holiday fairs and Unique LA wiped me out clean! So much for being prepared ;) I debuted my arm/hand mufflers, and needless to say they were a cozy, warm hit.

Dressed in denim & ready to vend! My dress is by my good friend & designer Jill Yee. Photo by Scott.

flustered vending. so many people & smiles!

Best photobooth set up ever. Happy holidays from {Paper & Type} & yours truly. I've always wanted a fro so I was pretty ecstatic to see it as a prop. And there's my muffler!

Kevin & I wish you happy holidays as well ;)

Kevin & I made our way to Figaro just down the street from his house to celebrate by candlelight & eating mussels. Nom nom.

Discover Paper also snapped some delightful photos of my stuff. Thank you to everyone who visited. I'm always happy to see new & old friends, and match faces with etsy usernames. See you next weekend at Renegade Craft Fair LA!

HARK! Holiday Art Show at Kaleid Gallery!!

2011-11-28T18:32:00.001-08:00

Huzzah huzzah! My very last art show of the year & it's a good one. At least I like the pieces I contributed :) I usually sell prints and almost never the originals, so this is your destination if you want an original to give or have. More info below!

KALEID Gallery invites you to join us for our annual holiday art show & sale featuring 45 artists from KALEID as well as additional artists from the greater San Jose area.

Original works of art at affordable prices perfect for gift giving!

Exhibit opens and sale begins with an Artists' Reception on First Friday, Dec. 2nd at 7pm and runs through Jan. 6, 2012.

The reception is part of the South FIRST FRIDAYS art walk in downtown San Jose. More info at http://www.SouthFirstFridays.com

Facebook RSVP

BLACK FRIDAY SALE on etsy!

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-08:00

WAHOO! It's the holiday of feasting and giving thanks, and because I can't share turkey with all of you, I'll share my gratitude in the form of giving... free shipping & a surprise gift!

No need to brace the winter brrrr. Stay indoors and visit my etsy shop for all your holiday needs from cards to holiday gifts and cuddly squishy plush friends to keep you company under blanket forts. The sale is for one day only so hurrrrrrry! :)

BIG HAPPY THANK YOU to YOU!

MARCEL THE SHELL IS BACK!!

2011-11-15T10:42:00.001-08:00

Marcel is back! Ahhhhh... READ ON!

A morning bike ride to the shore

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-08:00

Patchwork Holiday Festival - Nov 13 in Culver City

2011-11-13T07:58:00.001-08:00

Hello hello folks. I've been quiet in the blogging world because I've been running around between the Bay Area & Los Angeles, preparing for my FIVE craft fairs in FIVE weeks! INSANE! The first one is TODAY! My darling Kevin (aka the boy in Clink) will be handling all things Le Petit Elefant in my absence. I told him to wear a striped shirt to help break the ice a little ;)

So swing by! All the holiday goodies will be there, along with new elephants & narwhals sporting my newest fabric acquisitions.

Patchwork
Nov. 13, Sunday
11am-5pm
Helms Bakery (Venice & National Blvd)

2012 Calendar Assembly

2011-11-02T09:18:00.000-07:00

A behind the scenes look at the production!

My Canon printer + Victoria's Canon printer = speeeeeedy production

We used my printer to print on the kraft bags. So so pretty.

Trimming & collating station.

2012 Calendar by Le Petit Elefant + Paper and Type IS HERE!!

2011-10-31T07:30:00.000-07:00

We decided to try a different approach & theme while keeping all the good parts of last year's calendar... This 2nd collaborative calendar is seasonal, correspondence-themed, monochromatic & of course, perforated for your art-keeping pleasure. We sold out last year so get 'em while you can! :)

Find them here: Etsy / Modern Mouse / Flockshop / Sweet Breams / Renegade Craft Fair LA & SF / Patchwork / Unique LA

Spike Jonze: Mourir Auprès de Toi

2011-10-21T10:13:00.000-07:00

Spike Jonze: Mourir Auprès de Toi on Nowness.com.

This stop-motion short is amazing (with some humorous skeleton boning [HA!]).
You can read Mr. Jonze's interview about the short on nowness.com. Thanks for sending, kb :)

I'm on an animation kick because I went to the Animation Show of Shows last
night and will probably go again tonight (NERRRRRD! :). I highly recommend!

Google is so cool today

2011-10-21T09:48:00.000-07:00

Happy 100th birthday, Mary Blair. You've certainly inspired me.

RegrETSY: How to avoid a terrible Etsy transaction

2011-10-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

I had the unfortunate experience of dealing with an etsy shop seller who didn't share my views of customer service. I feel like you should always do what you can to make the customer happy. A happy customer is a returning customer. An unhappy customer, like me, will never shop there again and share the terrible experience on the internet :)

However, instead of turning this into a rant, I'm divulging so that you can perhaps learn along with me. There were mistakes made on both ends, and lots to take away. So, here's what happened (or if you don't want to read this part, just scroll to the bottom):

I purchased two washi tapes. I noted the positive reviews and didn't bother looking at her shop policies (my 1st mistake!).

Then, two weeks later:

Nothing. One month comes around...

4 days later...

She replies!!

Good: saying sorry, repeating shop policy
Not-so-good: essentially bribing me with half of what I paid for in exchange for keeping me quiet. If it's in your ability to send me something, you do it in hopes that I'll be happy & comment: "package was lost but seller had great service and set new ones immediately!" Do not offer a tape as part of a condition.

At this point, I was pretty upset:

Her reply:

And that's that. It was indeed a loss on both ends. We both did our part in escalating the situation. I feel like if she didn't add the 'agree to not leave negative or neutral feedback' bit things may have concluded better. And I could have been nicer and more understanding in my replies.

So! What I learned:

DO: immediately reply to customers/sellers
DO: read store policies and feedback
DO: always apologize if something goes awry, even if it isn't your fault
DO: try your hardest to make your customers happy (offer discount, free shipping, an extra something)
DO: make exceptions to help them.

When I did my training at Modern Mouse, a significant chunk was spent refining how to approach and work with customers. This included reading a reaaaaally enlightening excerpt from Zingerman's Guide to Giving Great Service, which outlines 5 basic steps to handling customer complaints:

Acknowledge the customer's complaint.
Sincerely apologize.
Take action to make things right for the guest.
Thank the customer for complaining.
Write it up.

Of course, not everyone sees customer service like this. I haven't always been the best with it, but the regretsy experience has taught me a lot. Hopefully it will show in future orders!

To end this post, here are some fun facts Eleen (Modern Mouse's owner) pointed out in our customer service guidelines:

Research indicates that customers who complain are likely to continue doing business with your company if they feel that they were treated properly.
It's estimated that as many as 90% of customers who perceive themselves as having been wronged never complain, they just take their business elsewhere.
Are they worth it? So, angry, complaining customers care enough to talk to you, and have not yet decided to take their business to the competition. They are customers worth saving.
You can learn more from the difficult customer than you could ever learn from your most loyal customers. Difficult customers tell you where it hurts.
Research has shown that just a 5% increase in customer retention can lead to 25% to 100% growth in profits.

Have a peek!

2011-10-18T13:50:00.000-07:00

new card in progress!

Vacation in NYC, part 2

2011-10-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

So another reason why I visited NYC was to celebrate Daniel Nayeri's latest young adult book, Straw House, Wood House, Brick House, Blow. He's also an editor at Clarion, as well as an aspiring international spy and former pastry chef. His wife (she is the SWEETEST!) and I were wearing nearly matching Anthropologie dress too ;)

My painting's the blue one!

Kevin using the in-gallery telephone booth.

Union Square doodling.

A little Fat Cat Scrabble fun with the folks.

My boop trying so hard to make up for my suckiness at pool. It's genetic. My sister & I played the longest, worst game of pool against each other. It's safe to say we both lost because our friend made us stop.

Kevin + Lassen & Hennig's Ugly

JENS!! You have my heart.

My sister & I carved pumpkins for the first time EVER!

FREE chinatown ice cream factory ice cream! Thanks Scout Mob! :)

Jim Henson exhibit at AMMI, Queens

Fish's Eddy!

Clink for customers!

2011-10-18T11:39:00.000-07:00

Daniel & Kimmi met over a cup of coffee.

And this is a soon-to-be-married couple's story of how they fell in love... in Clink form!

A Clink Wedding

2011-10-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

one of five illustrations

(btw, it's not for my wedding! it's a customer's ;)

two of five is at the top right. bottom is an anniversary present (again, not for me ;)

Welcome to the Bronx Zoo

2011-10-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

a custom order for Samantha completed & hand-delivered in NYC :)

Vacation in NYC, part 1

2011-10-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

Holidays are the craziest time & it's typically a non-stop hustle. So, I've found taking a vacation in October (after the summer time fairs and right before the holiday hustle) is THE BEST THING EVER. Also, the weather is nothing but awesome sauce (time to dust off those coats!).


pork belly steamed bun - momofuku ssam bar

Kevin joined me for my vacation and we ate our faces off all over the city. We ventured to Momofuku Ssam Bar.

spicy pork sausage & rice cakes - momofuku ssam bar

We also had the oysters with yellow watermelon & thai basil (gahhhhh...) & sweets from Milk Bar.

We then traveled to Brooklyn Bowl to watch a free preview of this season's first episode of Bored to Death. I was hoping :sigh: Jonathan aka Jason Schwartzman aka my boyfriend in another life would be there. Was he? No. But real life Jonathan aka Jonathan Ames was!

We headed to Barcade to spend the quarters weighing down my tote bag. I kicked his butt at Tetris!!

Then it was back to BK Bowl for the smooth, groovy tunes of DJ ?uestlove of the Roots.

Home at 4:30am. Not bad for the first night :)

Miss Yesterday Online Store

2011-10-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

Hip hip hooray! Mariana has launched her online store, Miss Yesterday, of all things lovely & delightful. Check out my goodies in the Stationery section :)

Also, shipping is a flat $10 worldwide so stock up on presents!

Baby's First Plush

2011-10-03T18:19:00.000-07:00

Being Elmo: A Puppeteer's Journey

2011-09-28T10:32:00.000-07:00

And since we're on the topic of feelings & childhood memories...

Maurice Sendak: Live Your Life

2011-09-28T10:26:00.000-07:00

Terry Gross of Fresh Air interviews Maurice Sendak about life, death and his latest book, Bumble-Ardy. Be warned: it is one of the most moving, emotional interviews I've heard.

Have a listen: Fresh Air Interview

HAPPY AUTUMN SALE!!

2011-09-23T00:00:00.000-07:00

I love autumn. Everything about it: warm coats, the reintroduction of winter accessories,

the vibrant earthy colors, crunchy leaves and my usual trip to the East Coast to see

leaves change. To celebrate, I'm having a sale in my etsy shop!

Yessiree! All tree prints! This includes:

Swinging from the Treehouse, Treehouse & Cookies, Communicating by Paper Airplane,

Oranges & Elephants, and Reading in the Autumn Rain.

The sale is only for today so hurry! :)

Sept 23rd is a special day

2011-09-19T17:28:00.000-07:00

It's the first day of autumn (my faaaavorite season)

AND!!!

the day of a very special etsy sale :) Stay tuned for more details. You've officially been warned.

I love it when my customers send me updates

2011-09-19T11:38:00.000-07:00

about the prints in their new home. Thank you very much, Jessica. It fits right in with your creative, literary nook ;)

Mr. W

2011-09-18T20:13:00.001-07:00

teehee.

Preeeesenting... an UP inspired wedding card!

2011-09-16T15:26:00.000-07:00

the perfect card for newlyweds in love with each other & Pixar's UP!

available on etsy!

Painting at the Santa Cruz Maker Market

2011-09-14T23:05:00.000-07:00

I present you with Autumn, 2012 (in progress)

and a custom order paper airplane painting. Inking from the ground up.

IF - Boundaries

2011-09-11T20:43:00.001-07:00

these two adventures know no boundaries

available on etsy :)

2012 Calendar...

2011-09-09T22:09:00.000-07:00

is totally in progress. GET READY! Creatively blocked no more! Woo! :)

Creative Block on a Friday

2011-09-09T14:53:00.000-07:00

I was told that when one is faced with a creative block... CLEAN! So I did :) I finally put up that Mary Blair print from Disneyland, and found a lovely home for the fabric hoop art I made last night at Modern Mouse's monthly crafty hour. I then took the ugly cork squares from Office Depot and covered them with pretty fabric.

I was also told by another to find inspiration in other people's work. Done. Books spilled about everywhere on my bed. Sketchbook open. Pencil in hand. Now I'm ready to work!

More washi tape thank you cards!

2011-09-06T12:07:00.000-07:00

Baby Shower card for Ariane

2011-09-06T11:56:00.000-07:00

in progress! ps, i feel like i've been painting so many prams lately :)

Amelia & her A

2011-09-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

First Day of Work! EEEEEE!!

2011-09-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

Today is a BIG day. Big in that I will be starting my first non-entrepreneurial job since the layoff at New Line Cinema 3 years ago. 3 YEARS almost to the date! (September seems to be the month were jobs start & end.)

In the last 3 years, I've sent out three or four resumes. The last two were to Scoops to be an ice cream server :), and the last to Modern Mouse, my employer! Clearly, I'm very very picky, and hesistant to take on a supplementary job for multiple reasons but mostly to avoid harming Le Petit Elefant business and disrupting my free-flowin' lifestyle.

Le Petit Elefant being push aside? No no nononono. The way I see it, working at Modern Mouse as a part-time sales gal has all the perks of Le Petit Elefant-customer relations, surrounded by like-minded individuals and some reaaaaally wonderful folk, a creative atmosphere-but it takes it a step outside of my Le Petit Elefant purview. I welcome the big picture. I want to see how a store is run (because maybe I want to someday have my own). I want to expand and work with a delightful crew of crafters & entrepreneurs on a regular basis (similar to my life in LA). And simply, I want to become a better, more savvy small business owner, and I can't think of a better example than Eleen.

So here we go!! I'm also thrilled about doing yoga after work. My first class in 3 months! GAH!

Oh! and you can also find me as a regular vendor at the Santa Cruz Maker's Market every Wednesday as part of their downtown farmer's market. Swing by! I start next Wednesday :)

Baby shower invite

2011-08-30T23:22:00.000-07:00

If you saw me this weekend at J-Pop Summit, you may have seen me painting while vending. Well, this is what it was for! I love the hungry lamb on the bottom. Teehee.

Fun with Washi Tape

2011-08-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

My mom asked me to design some thank you cards for her so I took a break from custom orders to play with washi tape

J-POP Summit Recap!

2011-08-29T16:03:00.001-07:00

The weather was bipolar. The set-up was a little different. There were cosplay folk roaming the streets and jpop music blaring from the speakers. Not my usual scene but damn, I had fun.

I realize now that I didn't take any pictures of people, haha oops! Anyway, thanks to everyone who came out! I loved seeing new and old faces, feeling inspired by the other vendors and my customers' stories. Now... I rest.

J-POP SUMMIT this SATURDAY & SUNDAY! OMG CAPS!

2011-08-26T22:00:00.000-07:00

I've been readying materials and new displays:

in preparation for my final craft fair of the summer: J-POP SUMMIT! in Japantown SF (Post Street from Webster to Laguna and the Peace Plaza). The event runs from 11am-6pm this Saturday & Sunday (August 27-28). I'll be unveiling new cards & prints and... my giant radioflyer! I spent about 2 hours cleaning it for you all so swing by :)
I've never attended before but from the pictures & descriptions, it looks like a great time. Cosplay folk, live performances, DJ battles, food trucks, dance workshops, art galleries, numerous other craft vendors... oh brother it'll be wonderful. I'd love to see you!

Disneyland!!

2011-08-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

So! Recently I went to Disneyland (yaaaaaaaay!!). I'd totally get a season pass if I actually lived in SoCal... Anyway, I was able to snag some discount tickets from my fine friends & hopped both parks with the Biggers Clan.

Btw, totally kicked Kevin's butt on Astroblasters AND Toy Story 2 Midway Mania. HA!

Anyway, the trip got me nostalgic and I thought about the first time I went to Disneyland (it was the Biggers' first time ever!). I dug up these photos from my first trip. I guess my sister is kind of in the picture too (mom was hella pregs).
My dad's hair was CRAZY!

Peter Pan at the time was my favorite Disney film and lookee who we got here!

Couldn't resist adding a little caption to this one. So HARDCORE!

My customers come up with the best ideas!

2011-08-25T11:55:00.001-07:00

the tin can card as an 8x10 print!

Bless my soul I just fell in love with my printer all over again

2011-08-23T15:16:00.000-07:00

I got my Canon Pro9000 about two months ago and am still tinkering with it. I was pretty bummed about how gianormous it is compared to my old Canon i9900 but it definitely prints better, faster, aaaaaaand (which I discovered today) I don't have to manually add print sizes. It already has all of them & more in the system! Endless possibilities. So heavenly. And nerdy :)

Supper Social Potluck

2011-08-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is what I'm bringing!!

1. bake the cookies

2. trim the cookies

3. add ice cream and SMASH!

Done with the chocolate chip batch with Scoops ice cream pairings salty chocolate, brown bread & horchata. On to sugar & molasses cookies! :)

Share buds with buds

2011-08-16T16:55:00.000-07:00

Leanna Lin's Wonderland

2011-08-15T09:59:00.001-07:00

I visited her 1st birthday celebration on Saturday night in Eagle Rock! It was my first time visiting the store and OMG, so much cuteness!!
yay photo booth with miss faheema of unicorn crafts and her sissy. merrick did not want to join. puh.

Dawwww so cute!!

2011-08-14T19:14:00.001-07:00

He likes his J! :)

Hoorah hoorah!

2011-08-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

finished the painting for Erin :)

Painting in progress for Erin

2011-08-10T20:16:00.001-07:00

I kind of... Like you. Part 2!

2011-08-10T10:29:00.000-07:00

here's the lady version!

I Kind of... Like you.

2011-08-09T19:25:00.000-07:00

based on an autobiographical nervousness

This weekend's paintings

2011-08-08T14:27:00.000-07:00

finished a custom order for Brooke :)

I really really love this one. Just a pair of imaginative adventurers. Expect a print very soon!

Just a quick doodle while at {paper & type}'s beautiful table at Saturday's fair.

A field day at Nucleus

2011-08-08T08:59:00.000-07:00

Oh brother boy oh boy did I spend a lot of money on artsy things this weekend. I thought it was going to stop at Michael Levine but then I went to Nucleus's opening on Saturday and bought a book. Then I went back the following day for "An Afternoon with David Colman." I feel like I'm in a drawing rut (as opposed to a drawing block). I can definitely draw and draw well, but I'm getting tired of the same ole style. SO! In hopes of ending this streak of boredom, I ventured to this seminar. And boy did it work! I'm so glad I went. I even won one of the raffles & took one of his original sketches from the demo home with me:
I also took home two books and a print by Chris Appelhans (for my booooyfriend) and a print by Jon Klassen for ME!

During the seminar David said something about the difference between animators and illustrators, and I realized I was becoming more of an illustrator and less and less an animator. Womp. I want to stay fresh, versatile, able to draw in different styles, and always pulling from real life. So, I've decided I need to change my routine a little bit to accommodate the habits of an animator again... this means constantly carrying a sketch book to draw everything around me (not just for jotting painting ideas), finding a place to do figure drawing, and doing research on the animals I draw before I start adding creative flairs.

And that's just what I did when I got home :)

Michael Levine's trip

2011-08-05T13:53:00.000-07:00

Victoria & I ventured to Michael Levine's this morning. We had clear intentions for our purchases. Victo was good and only stuck to her list. I on the other hand... OH WELL! I was only supposed to get that food-themed one on the right and curtains (far left) for my boyfriend's new apartment. There are even more in addition those pictured. I'm just embarrassed.

My Homage to Tim Burton

2011-08-04T19:16:00.000-07:00

The originals are for sale. If interested, contact me (genevieve@lepetitelefant.com)!

Magpie Logo

2011-08-02T17:38:00.001-07:00

logo I just put together in about an hour. i dig it!

Wedding custom order completed!

2011-08-02T11:50:00.000-07:00

Portland's Last Thursday & Wedding Time

2011-08-02T10:39:00.000-07:00

Hello!!!

Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta Street :)

Celebratory B&Gs

Wedding Time

Sandeep stealing singles from the tip jar. Forecast tomorrow: Making it rain. (caption by Kevin)

Ashleigh made the prettiest bride.

goofiness in the gazebo!

And that concludes this year's summer craft fair! Thank you thank you all :)

Hey look it's me on bakitwhy.com!

2011-07-29T23:31:00.001-07:00

I met with Mark Anthony Diaz a couple weeks ago for BakitWhy.com and here's what he wrote!

Genevieve Santos is an artistic entrepreneur who is always on the go. At a young age, Genevieve drew her heart away and dreamed one day of becoming an artist. As a child her inspiration was drawn from Disney Cartoons while part of her artistic abilities also revolve around physical and unique creations through crafting.

Genevieve has come a long way since then. After high school she studied and majored in communications and animation, which landed her a job in the film business. But even through all of her endeavors, she was still not completely satisfied.

After some time, Genevieve ventured out on her own and created the business she now owns, Le Petit Elefant (“the small elephant” in French) which has grown immensely within the past three years. Her business consists of toys, handmade crafts and artworks for children and to anyone "kid-at-heart". Although everything started slow, after a few moments of doubt, she stood her ground and continued to pursue her love as an independent artist. Through all this, she has experienced much of the ups and downs of running a business, but at the end of the day, it is all worth it. She is a woman that builds her inspiration from travelling, as well as from other artists such as Tim Burton. "I always have to be on the go" says Genevieve, "I can't get too comfortable in one place".

After all these sacrifices that Genevieve encountered, she is now managing Le Petit Elefant as her fulltime job.

Her message to those who are starting or in the middle of creating their business is as follows; To not give up, to find the spark that fuels you, and to never get too comfortable.

For more info:

Last Stop: Last Thursday - Portland OR

2011-07-28T12:05:00.000-07:00

Hitting the road one more time. This time, I'm Portland-bound. I haven't back been since I before I left for Asia. I also haven't stepped into a BK in years (only to use the bathroom) and look at this gem I found sitting in his straw hat & overalls:

Anyway! I'll be at Last Thursday Art Walk on Alberta St. vending from 6-10pm tonight. Swing by & say hello :) I've never been before, so I'm really nervous/excited to see how it goes. I've heard nothing but good things so here goes nothing! It's also the the last stop on my craft fair summer tour so here's to the end and the beginning!

Last Thursday
1476 Northeast Alberta Street Portland
6-10pm
more info here

Wedding season is upon us!

2011-07-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

wedding illustration for Erica

wedding/birthday present for Mike from Elaine
they like it!! :)

Plush Meets Paper: A Renegade Craft Fair Recap

2011-07-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

break time under the tableanthony's feet

More mentions of Le Petit Elefant/Paper & Type at Renegade Craft Fair by LA Weekly, Zakka Nouveau, Justina of Compai, our intern Jaclyn, & OldBrandNew

a favorite from renegade

2011-07-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

Taken by the talented Dabito of OldBrandNew.

Biiiirthdayyyy!

2011-07-21T18:43:00.001-07:00

To celebrate my birthday, I finally put the ice cream cookie sandwich molds to good use.

I made two batches of cookies from scratch: chocolate chip hazelnut & lemon sugarcookie-cutted cookies!

Place the cookie on the bottom, followed by a scoop of ice cream. In this case it's lemon creme from Scoops :). The chocolate chip cookies had either oreo custard or vanilla rice pudding. YUM!

Another cookie.

SMASH IT!
Tada!!

& here are some cool presents I got!

birthday ring from my boop :)some lovely cards! Silliness all around. Thank you to my friends who celebrated with me & the customers that celebrated with some le petit elefant goodness!

My last day at 26

2011-07-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

I spent the afternoon (3+ hours) at LACMA exploring the Tim Burton Exhibit. So so good. I got teary-eyed when I saw all the Vincent stuff. These art/animation exhibits always get to me here. I was tremendously inspired by his humor and work unrelated to his movies. I loved his number series so much I could eat it up! I purchased his book of illustrated poems, "The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy & Other Stories" and sat outside for a couple hours to churn out some Burton-inspired pieces.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY me! Free gift for YOU!

2011-07-20T00:36:00.000-07:00

A Return to Renegade Craft Fair LA!!!

2011-07-14T16:02:00.001-07:00

Lots of exciting things have been happening for me & Le Petit Elefant. The craft tour has been absolutely wonderful thus far and this weekend marks the 1 year anniversary of my craft fair adventures. What better way to celebrate than sharing a booth with {Paper & Type} at the fair that started it all, Renegade Craft Fair in LA State Historic Park in Chinatown!

There will be the usual backdrop of food trucks, a free photobooth, drinks (both the rated G & fun kind), and workshops galore as well as 200+ unbelievably talented artists, crafters, jewelers, you name it. Don't let the closing of the 405 fwy get you down--hop on a bike or a car full of folks and head on down. It'll be a great time. Victoria & I have also been hard at work putting together a SNEAK PEAK to our 2012 calendar. Plus, you can meet our amazing intern, Jaclyn :)

Renegade Craft Fair Los Angeles
LA State Historic Park
July 16 - 17, 11am - 7pm
more info here

And if you can't make it, I'll be in Portland on July 28th, and back in SF August 27-28 ;)

The best tub I've ever seen

2011-07-12T08:41:00.001-07:00

I've been hard at work preparing for Renegade Craft Fair. Yesterday I took a break to visit my friend David, a face I'm used to seeing in NYC.

This is his tub.

Mmm... that's all the time I have for now. Expect more random photos in the coming days!

Ponyo-inspired commissioned painting in progress

2011-07-06T15:48:00.000-07:00

pardon the poor photograph (cafe tropical in silverlake is very dimly lit). this painting shall be so bubbly and silly and happy just like the soon-to-be newlyweds :)

Santa Monica Museum of Art Critter Contest

2011-07-05T15:37:00.001-07:00

Here's my submission to the contest!

Filmore Art Walk recap!

2011-07-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

Oh, SF, it's always a pleasure to visit you with a business intent.I was able to post up next to Little Honey Vee, who I met at Maker Faire. Her stuff is wonderfully sweet & silly. She's one of those hard working artists who makes the time to pursue her craft while working a 9-5. Much respect. She's also an enthusiastic zumba-er.

I didn't take many photos because the light was just never in my favor. And I had to stand by in case things blew away (which happened A LOT. Why so windy, SF?!?). I also saw many wonderful folk, old friends & digital ones, so it was a sweet time. The little prints, and vintage-y frames were well received so I'm happy! Now, on to LA for the next one :)

Filmore Art Walk!!

2011-06-30T10:11:00.000-07:00

Heyoooo!! The craft fair tour continues Friday night in San Francisco! You can find me in two places on Filmore St. First, I'll be in the flesh vending my goods, debuting the Teddy Bear Saver series in print form! And second, you can find my artwork in an art gallery!! WHAAAAT?!? :) I'll be there setting up around 3pm but the party gets started around 6pm and ends around midnight. We'll see how long I can keep my eyes open :).

Come out & play! There will be live music, DJs, performances, happy hour specials throughout the neighborhood... I'd love to see you!

Here's all the info in jpg format:

About the exhibition:

Sift through. Find a uniquely framed print!

2011-06-29T16:39:00.000-07:00

Mmmmm... I finally found a use for my wire basket!
Expect to dig at Renegade Craft Fair LA :)

Teddy Bear Savers, #4

2011-06-29T08:17:00.000-07:00

rainy day coverage.
please note the bear's cocktail drink umbrella ;)

BTW, I'm debuting the teddy bear series as prints this THIS FRIDAY at the Filmore Art Walk in SF before I make them available on my etsy shop :)

Teddy Bear Savers, #3

2011-06-28T15:22:00.000-07:00

surgeon-saver

BK Flea!!

2011-06-28T10:53:00.001-07:00

I promised I'd post more pictures. A little late but better late than never! :)
(all photos by my little sister bina)

My new mini radio flyer. It's so cute!Mr. & Mrs. Biggers. Hands-down the sweetest couple I know.
He's soo cuuute. He looked at each plush & handled them so gingerly.
He found a friend!!
Breakfast: blood orange & hibiscus flower doughnuts. YUM! But wayyy sweet after a while.
me & my mini substitute lady. She's so tiny compared to the usual one.

Mini cupcakes kitty-corner from my booth... deliciously dangerous. Flavors: red velvet, passion fruit, fresh strawberry, chocolate-caramel-fleur-de-sel. You got one if you were a visiting friend/helper. I have to say Mrs. Biggers came away the winner with 4 cupcakes hehe.
These were from the following week. Whaaat! She had new flavors!! Maple sugar bacon & root beer float (with fresh, cold creme icing). There was also a boba table DIRECTLY ACROSS. DIRECTLY. Ackkk! So I got some for David, Bina & myself by way of trading. Paper Airplane seems to be the popular print amongst trading vendors

She gave us these ones for free because they were smushed. Still tasted great!
Lunch: Asian fusion hotdogs. Pretty darn tasty.
Downward dog lady!!

More food. Hey, you have to stay well fed at these things. Especially if there's a smorgasbord of delicious dishes around you.

Sissy working the table.
So second week of the fair, I basically got rained out. It was somewhat miserable but dang, New Yorkers don't stress!! I still met lots of people and made sales. I closed up shop early only to have the day refunded. I have nothing but positive things to say about the fine folks of Brooklyn Flea. It was an honor to vend there & with all the vendors.

After the fair, I ventured with Bina to Boka to use a groupon. Oh god. It was so good. The perfect thing to warm my damp feet. Korean fried chicken & bibimbap!
We also got one of those soju watermelon things. TASTY!
&.... momofuku compost cookies & birthday cake truffles for dessert :)

New Stampssssss!!

2011-06-27T12:57:00.001-07:00

Two for me, one for Victo. I feel so official now.

Time Magazine's all-time top 25 animated films

2011-06-27T11:54:00.000-07:00

Richard Corliss put together a list for Time Magazine of “25 All-Time Best Animated Features”. Here it is:

1. Pinocchio (1940)
2. WALL-E (2008)
3. The Bugs Bunny/Road Runner Movie (1979)
4. Dumbo (1941)
5. Spirited Away (2001)
6. South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut (1999)
7. Up (2009)
8. The Triplets of Belleville (2003)
9. Finding Nemo (2003)
10. The Little Mermaid (1989)
11. Toy Story 3 (2010)
12. Toy Story (1995)
13. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
14. The Adventures of Prince Achmed (1926)
15. Wallace & Gromit in the Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
16. Happy Feet (2006)
17. Akira (1988)
18. The Lion King (1994)
19. Tangled (2010)
20. Paprika (2007)
21. Kung Fu Panda (2008)
22. Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who! (2008)
23. Yellow Submarine (1968)
24. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
25. Lady and the Tramp (1955)

Horton Hears a Who?! Also, HAPPY FEET?! Ughhhh. I was at a free screening of that film and I wanted to walk out. Where's Iron Giant? & The Nightmare Before Christmas? Anyway, there are some pretty hilarious comments about this whole thing on Cartoon Brew. Someone said it sounded like he just wrote down every & any animated film he had seen. Teehee.

Teddy Bear Savers, #2

2011-06-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

Trampoline Tea Time!

2011-06-23T16:41:00.000-07:00

The sketch

& the finished product.

Unicorn & Talula

2011-06-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

Christopher has a tradition of commissioning an artist to paint a birthday present for young little miss Talula. It's her 4th birthday & the theme is unicorns. Christopher's description of her: She is like a giggly little circus performer. She loves animals of all kinds, and usually takes one wherever she goes. She usually dresses in bright colored dresses and crazy patterned tights, and the occasional princess dress. She has already had her first punky pink hair extension put in, and pink is probably her favorite color. She just rode her first rollercoaster at disneyland this weekend, and loved it!

Apparently they're making unicorn horns and decorating them at the party too, so hoorah!

Happy 4th, Talula!!
Thank you, Mickey, for the referral!
& thank you Christopher for the opportunity :)

Wedding Card for Ariane

2011-06-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

A wedding card I made for Ariane to give to her sister the bride :)

My instructions were to include the couple, two geese, a cat & chicks, and to make it colorful & fun. So to prevent it from being too cramped, I spread the illustration all the way to the back :) Tada!

frontback

I'm slowly getting through all my painting custom orders... please have patience if you're still waiting. There's quite the queue! I'm averaging one a day. Not too shabby imo.

bring your pet to school day!!

2011-06-17T21:11:00.000-07:00

Don't ask me how I come up with these things... haha.

Custom Order for Helen

2011-06-17T20:39:00.000-07:00

Oh I really love how this one turned out :)
A couple of kids reading in the light fall drizzle.

Teddy Bear Savers, #1

2011-06-17T13:51:00.001-07:00

Not exactly sure how I came up with this idea but I want to make a whole series of kids saving teddy bears from DOOM!

Finished Lisa's painting!

2011-06-17T12:37:00.000-07:00

I painted one painting and cut it into two 5x7s so that each girl can have her own piece of the painting :)

Painting in progress for Lisa

2011-06-16T16:44:00.000-07:00

I think it's coming along quite nicely :)

So I wrote this really long email...

2011-06-16T09:52:00.001-07:00

in response to a curious character animation student asking for advice & how I got into the biz. I just thought I'd post it in case there are more curious people out there! It's seriously an essay.. GAH! But I hope it's helpful!

------------

Thank you so much for the sweet words! Do you have a website too? I'd love to see your work :)

While at USC, I majored in Communication & minored in Animation. My school only offered a minor. I was sad about it at the time but looking back I'm glad I had a more well-rounded education. I learned how to sell my work and analyze audiences, which is a large part of running your own business. I was also in school when 3D started to become the hot new thing, and I found myself incredibly discouraged because I really hated doing 3D animation. I tried it but my brain just doesn't work that way. Do you do 3D or traditional?

As I started to do more traditional animation, I found that I had a knack for drawing things quickly and expressively, rather than the same thing repetitively. So I started to move more toward drawing singular drawings, where the picture really is worth 1000 words. Haha. I had a full time job out of college doing creative advertising/print production for New Line Cinema, but I still hustled my way to classes across town for figure drawing workshops, animation classes, etc. I made sure I never stopped drawing. Ever. It seems simple but it's so hard to do. I think that's one thing I can recommend you to do.

So, if you love drawing, then you simply love drawing, and animation is just another form of trying to put your drawings in a finished product. Just because you study character animation doesn't mean you have to be a character animator for the rest of your life. I will say one thing about animation though--I've never ever EVER regretted my animation background, lol. When people see my art, they see movement, expression, action which I learned from animation, which is what you're learning now. You're learning story telling in movement. Not everyone can do that. Last week, I met with a children's book editor & he told me that an animation background is something to prize in this market ;) Soo there ya go! There's another option for you.

If you're a talented artist, you don't have to pick just one medium, method or route. There's so much crossover--look at Jon Klassen who does illustration, concept art for animation, fine art and now children's books. Or Scott Morse of Pixar who also does comic books. I highly encourage you to be good at multiple things--you just have to be GREAT at determining which medium, method or route is best for expressing that idea. And have great ideas!

Oh goodness this is long. Haha. Sorry.

I'm not really sure how I got into the business except that I just kept pushing myself to try something that seemed a little out of reach. Like, hey I'll just walk into this store and see if they want to sell my stuff! Or, hey there's a craft fair... let's try it! Rejection is all part of the game, too. But just find out why you were rejected, learn from it, and move on. There are definitely depressing moments in trying to have your own business that entrepreneurs don't really like talking about... having $20 in the bank account (me), having to move back to your parent's house (me), feeling so sad & hopeless that you're not going to make it (me & everyone I'm sure). Everyone who is up there & successful as an illustrator had to pay their dues, work their @$$ off, and fight off anyone who doubted them including themselves. I could tell you not to be discouraged but it's going to happen because it's part of the process. Just keep going. It'll pay off eventually, and before you know it, you've reached the point of no return and you've made a business of what you love.

Again, thanks for emailing me! I'm really excited to help and answer any questions. I was where you are not too long ago, so I know how scary it is. But really, it's all going to be okay if you keep fighting for what you love doing.

-------------

if anyone else has questions, don't be a stranger! send me a line! :)

Go the F**k to Sleep

2011-06-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

Children's book by Adam Mansbach, narrated by Samuel L. Jackson. Hilaaaaaarious.

Playtime at Governor's Island

2011-06-15T10:25:00.001-07:00

If you find yourself in New York City on a Friday, then I recommend heading to Governor's Island for a day of free/cheap fun! Take the free ferry to the island (1, Whitehall/South Ferry). It's right next to the Staten Island Ferry. Last ferry leaving the city is at 3pm so plan for a morning voyage to take full advantage!

The beauty of going on a Friday as opposed to the weekend (it's only open Friday-Sunday) is it's FREE BIKE FRIDAY! You can rent a bike for free for an hour. It's about all you need really to circle around the island a few times. It's lovely. You get views of the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, Brooklyn, etc. It's just a great time. Then, there are art exhibits, installations, DJs, performances scattered throughout. It's like a scavenger hunt to find the sweet activities! Here's what I found:

A treehouse of recycled/repurposed materials.

shipping crates turned into lounges

Eataly. Just kidding. Not on the island but I did go here to buy my picnic food. PRICEY!!! Delicious but pricey. I don't think I'd do it again.

Me in a giant hammock. Yes, there are hammocks with a view of...

A BLUE MARBLE ICE CREAM CART!!! Oh, and the waterfront.

inflatable & mulch-y playground

my favorite part: swings with a view

The Couches of NYC: Pavithra, Bob & Zach

2011-06-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

It's been hella days since I blogged. So long that I'm already back in the bay area. But here's some catch up!

So, I spent day 4 at Bob's in Chelsea. This is the view:

Daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaang, right??

Then day 5 & 6 at Pavithra's in East Village.

Her place is so charming and sweet. On my last night at her place, we watched game 4 of the playoffs over hard cider, levain cookies, high fives & high pitched screams. One of my favorite moments of the trip! Then it was back to Bob's for two nights and then to Park Slope for one night at Zach's. I'd like to give a special shout to every kind gentleman who carried my giant suitcase of craft fair supplies up the subway station stairs :)
We went to see Andrew Bird for free to kick off the summer concert series at Prospect Park and had some delicious pizza. The folks went out drinking while I was a good, responsible lady and went to bed by 1am to prep for my second round of Brooklyn Flea.

The Couches of NYC: The Biggers

2011-06-06T08:58:00.000-07:00

The next two nights in NYC were spent at Kevin's parent's home in Wayne, New Jersey. Kevin sold me with the big backyard, my own room aka his childhood room, baby pictures galore, car ride to the fair, and of course & most importantly, I absolutely love his parents. I definitely got all that & more.

Kevin's parents & Kevin united for the first time. He was the only baby on the plane who was laughing and smiling :)

Kevin & his cousin.

My dinner after the craft fair on a plate designed by a young Kevin.

His plush duck collection at the foot of his bed.

Teehee!!

PORK ROLL! I finally had it. It tastes so good for you/so bad for you.

daaaaaaaaaaaaaawww...

MONSTERRRRR truck!

All in all, I had a lovely time with his parents. They drove me around the town and showed me his schools, the soccer fields where Kevin coached & played, the restaurant where Kevin ate after he bought his first car, and the lake near their house. The sentimentality, love, calm and sightseeing perfectly complimented the anxiety and worry of a craft fair. I couldn't have asked for a better (re)treat.

Oh brother what a Brookly Flea!!

2011-06-05T15:05:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day!!

got up early at the Biggers home and packed up the inventory

drove into the city from new jersey with kevin's wonderfully helpful parents and set up the booth with their & bina's help. hey sissy face!!
My sister took a majority of the pictures. these are just the ones off my phone. Overall it was a wonderful day. I had many surprise appearances from friends... Special shout to Angela, David, Brian & Candice, Zach, Matthew for the good intentions, Loretta & Gayathri for the love. & my sissy. It was just so lovely seeing my old new york friends. it almost felt like a fair in LA with all the folks gathered in the back laughing and telling stories. It felt like New York was home again. I duno.. It & everyone was just so nice. I also met a lot of foreigners and visitors so that was really exciting.

I emailed BK Flea about doing next Saturday's fair too but haven't heard back yet. I'm a little low on inventory but dang, it was just too good to not do again :)

BROOKLYN FLEA!!

2011-06-03T19:24:00.000-07:00

banner borrowed from brooklynflea.com

Get ready for Le Petit Elefant's big voyage across the US of A. Destination: NEW YORK CITY!

The plush are packed & awaiting their return to where it all started. I'm thrilled to see old & meet new friends! So come on down to Brooklyn Flea & say hello to me and the neighboring 150+ vendors. & you can meet my little sister!! It'll be a good time :) Oh, and I'll be showing off the NEW CARD that has something to do with hearts and boogers. BOOGERS!

Brooklyn Flea
June 4, Saturday
10am-5pm, Rain or Shine
176 Lafayette Ave. (btw. Clermont + Vanderbilt Ave.)
Subway:
C to Lafayette Ave.
G to Clinton-Washington Ave.
B/D/Q/N/R/2/3/4/5 to Atlantic Ave.-Pacific St.
Map