One of the keys to putting together  a living space that goes beyond  utilitarian is to infuse it with artistic touches.  The challenge is, however, finding affordable art that has not been mass produced. 

Sure I love Homegoods, Target, and Marshall's as much as the next home decor enthusiast.  But sometimes a more exclusive look is desired.  That's where Etsy artisans can help.

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Why Shopping With Etsy is an Experience You Don't Want to Miss

If you've been following me for some time, you know that I am in the process of transforming my backyard deck space.  It's a fun and creative activity called the One Room Challenge hosted by Calling It Home and House Beautiful.  Feel free to click here for recaps of:  Week 1 // Week 2 // Week 3 // Week 4  You can also check out some of the other participants' progress here.

*Please note: this is NOT a sponsored post.  Just a recap of a pretty awesome experience I recently had with an Etsy shop owner.  I have NOT been compensated for this article and all opinions are my own.  If you feel inspired after reading this post, I encourage you to check outVliving to view her gaw-geous selection of handmade items!

Anyhoo...I was looking for a few statement throw pillows that wouldn't blow my budget, but that would still give me an authentic "artsy" feel.  Besides, I enjoy supporting artists.  So I went straight to Etsy, where I knew I would find the perfect item.

Before long I stumbled across an Etsystore owner located in India called Vliving, that featured the perfect complimentary items for my Moroccan themed room.  After browsing a bit, I placed an order for two of these lumbar pillows. 

1. Rock-Star Personalized Service

Since the size of the pillow I wanted was not shown online, I contacted the store owner directly to request a custom size.  Yes, at Etsy, you can be treated like a rock star - even if you aren't one.  It's an opportunity to communicate with real artists, all over the world, who love what they do.  Specialists, who can create a one-of-a-kind piece, just for you, at a less than a fraction of the cost.  Plus, you get the satisfaction of knowing that the amazing folks who craft these items are fairly compensated for their work.

2.  Beautiful Packaging

One might imagine that the celebrity treatment would have stopped there, but it didn't.  Much like dining in a high-end restaurant, or visiting an exclusive boutique,purchasing from an Etsy shop owner is an experience. 

Due to a missed email correspondence on my part regarding expedited shipping, the order was slightly delayed.  But Vaishali, the shop owner,  knew I needed these items quickly, and although she hadn't heard from me since I had paid for them, she took the initiative to ship them as soon as she could.  Then she messaged me to let me know.  As a result of her forward thinking, I came home tonight to the delightful little package below.

Yep, it arrived just like this.  In my excitement, I ripped the shipping label off before photographing it.  At first glance, it was hard to determine what it was.   The cloth, a hand-sewn, logo-stamped pillow case was actually a "shipment envelope".  It was so... so.. lush looking, yet remarkably simple.  The print on the outside of the package reads: "Take Home Some Happiness. VLiving".      

Inside were my two lumbar pillows, neatly and securely wrapped to protect them.  There was also a thank you note from Vaishali herself.  Nice touch!

3.  Impeccable Quality & Workmanship

When I opened the package to review the contents I was amazed by the quality and workmanship.  The accuracy of the stitching, and the weight of the fabric are outstanding.  

Since most well-crafted items sold in the States are reserved for those willing to pay the exorbitant price, it can be easy to become accustomed to lower quality goods.  While not everything sold on Etsy is inexpensive, you can find some reasonably priced, authentic, and very well made art pieces.

I plan to feature these pillows in my room reveal next week.  But in the meantime, feel free to hop over to Etsy to browse the different shops.  There are literally thousands of them, so you are bound to find something you like. 

For now, please tell me:  Do you ever purchase from Etsy?  If yes, what are some of your favorite shops?  

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