Next month, the Watermelon Wishes "team" will celebrate our sixth year of business. It seems fitting, to take a moment to look back and marvel at how far the company has come. When Darin and I, drafted the original business plan, we intended to purchase handmade goods and resell them online. As the inventory began to arrive, my discerning eye for detail was drawn to what I perceived to be fundamental flaws in craftsmanship.
Shortly thereafter, I began to experiment with pattern sewing. Still not satisfied, with the final product, I eventually discarded the patterns and began to freehand my own designs. These original bags sold for less than $35 on eBay. Of course, they weren't profitable; but, I was deeply flattered that anyone would even want to own one.
As the product quality increased, demand grew and I began to pay more attention to the cost of goods sold. Today, I have perfected most aspects of my craft---but, truth be told---I hope to never attain total perfection. I love to learn and frequently find myself analyzing the bag making process and subsequently refining my technique. The ability to accept custom orders in my Etsy shop, has been invaluable in the evolution of Watermelon Wishes. With every new request, I take a step out of the comfort zone and into a world of innovation and creativity. I love that feeling!
The bag pictured below was a custom order for a delightful Australian client who added a few distinguishing details to my XL Ultimate style diaper bag. There are several features which are new concepts and will be available on future custom orders.
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| XL Ultimate Style Diaper Bag with Removable Adjustable Padded messenger strap. |
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| 4 wide elasticized pockets, 1 full length zippered pocket, swivel key fob, elastic sippy cup bands and dedicated phone pocket. |
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| Dedicated phone pocket, sized to hold the i-phone with or without a silicone cover. |
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| Full length interior zippered compartment and integrated swivel key fob. |
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| Upgraded silver-tone hardware and multi-positionalble stroller straps. |
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| RAP strap |
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| Hidden hook and loop pocket closure keeps valuables secure. |
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| Oversized snap and flap closure adds function and beauty. |
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| RAP strap |
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| Custom XL Ultimate Style Diaper Bag by Watermelon Wishes |
Via the sale of my diaper bag patterns and tutorials, I have also discovered that I love to teach and inspire others. In the year ahead, I am making plans to develop some new tutorials in pdf format as well as video instruction.
Until then, I wish you and yours a Happy New Year!
