Catching up, taxes done.

I have been incredibly busy since the beginning of the year trying to get my taxes done and filing my NY sales taxes in between filling orders and staying warm. I started out doing inventory in early January, then I decided to do my own taxes instead of depending on someone else (who royally messed up my taxes last year), so after I take a small break, I will be filing an amended return.   It's been a very cold and long winter out here in the country and I am so ready for spring and digging in the dirt once again. 

Last weekend was my first show of the season, the Indie Garage Sale in Utica NY.  It was a cold and rainy day, but the crowds were steady all day.  It was lovely seeing old friends and meeting new ones.  I've added glycerine and goats milk soaps to my line, but only for gift and spa sets to compliment my candles. 

It was a great show as always, but not fun packing up and driving home in the pouring rain.  I unloaded the car on Sunday, cleaned and re-organized my studio and since it rarely stays that way, I decided to take a few pictures in its pristine condition. 

This is just about everything I take to a show except my folding stool.  If I take my tent for an outdoor show, there's just enough room in my car.  I pack meticulously after each show so all I have to do for the next show is re-stock. I keep everything by the door for a fast exit! 

I am stocked up with nearly 200 lbs of wax.  The white box is extra wicking,  Most of the wax will be gone in a week or so. 

My primary work area is this table, covered in plastic then butcher paper to keep it clean.  My wicks hang above the orders clipped with clothespins, the table to the right is for my tools and important recipes are tacked to the bulletin board.  To the left are my molds and under the table are more supplies such as tins and tea light cups.  I make all my wicks, mix fragrances and pour all my candles at this table. 

My mold shelf (no, not moldy shelf) is getting pretty crowded as I continue to add new shapes and sizes to my inventory.  As you can see, the door opens on to my driveway, making it possible to open up shop to the public some day, should I ever decide to.  Of course I would have to eliminate the spare bedroom around the corner.   I like to keep my options open.

Fragrances

Staging table for finished products and packing table.

I haven't shown you the sauna packed with shipping materials and my tent, the other bedroom I use for storage, or the room where I melt wax and store even more supplies, but I enjoy working in my studio with the radio or stereo on.  It makes the time go by during long hours.  

Thanks for visiting!