Lauren was looking to purchase her first home in Franklin. She had looked at plenty of existing homes, but eventually decided to purchase a brand new townhouse in a new subdivision called Berry Farms. The biggest lesson she learned? “Always expect the time frame to be longer than expected when building. Definitely have a plan B.” She was supposed to close in December, but delay after delay meant that her home was not ready for her to move in until the middle of March! Every time it seemed like we were getting close, a “final” walkthrough would reveal a new issue that needed to be taken care of. We had to adjust to many different scenarios, even including Lauren living on a friend’s couch for a period of time, but our team worked with her to make it all turn out okay. “Kat was always very responsive and available if I could not get Michelle. There is a good dynamic there.” Finally, after months of delays and re-negotiating concessions with the builder for taking so much longer than promised, Lauren moved in to the home she always wanted. “My favorite part of the house is definitely the balcony. I love sitting out there with a glass of wine watching the storms roll in and/or enjoying a cup of coffee in the weekend.” We’re so happy that it finally all fell into place for...

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Each week, we spotlight one of our favorite vendors. While you can always see our complete list of names, categories, and contact information here (constantly updated!), these emails will give you a deeper understanding of who these people and businesses really are. This week, get to know more about Melissa Loveall, owner of etsy shopLoveall Designs. What got you started making these mobiles?  I was looking for an “elephant” themed baby mobile to put the finishing touch on my second daughter’s nursery.  I found several I liked on Etsy and thought, “I can do that!”  I really enjoyed making my own mobile and decided to share my joy with other expectant mothers.  I have shipped mobiles all across the US and as far away as Australia, Norway, and Japan. I saw in the comments that you went to someone’s nursery to help them choose a color scheme for their mobile. How much do you charge for that extra service? More than once I have visited stores that carry the bedding a customer has chosen for their nursery.  I go to the store, chose colors that match the bedding, and send the potential colors to the customer, who makes the final choice.  I do not charge extra for this service.  It is part of my commitment to make sure your mobile is exactly as you envision it. What advice do you have for others considering starting an etsy store? It takes time to build your store/customer base, but be patient.  Get to know your customers to build a good working relationship. What’s your process? What happens when a potential client contacts you for the first time? I like to get to know my customers.  The first thing I do is request pictures of their baby bedding or nursery and answer questions they may have about the design process.  I like to keep my customers involved in the design process so along the way I send them pictures of sketches/color schemes for their approval. Where do you live? What do you like about that area of town? Spring Hill, TN.  The Super Target, of course! What’s your favorite way to spend a weekend here in town? My favorite way to spend a weekend is working in the garden with my husband, Landon, and our two girls, Athena (3) and Brooksley (1). Would you like to include an exclusive discount for Michelle Froedge Team subscribers? Free  Shipping!  Use coupon code Michelle at checkout. If you’re a new mom-to-be or a friend of someone who needs a special something to finish off the nursery, check out Melissa’s store! Don’t forget to use the coupon code Michelle to get free shipping on any...

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