1. What makes your blog different from all the others out there?

I think Modish is special because it's really invested in my unique voice and point and view- it features people, art and goods that I think are special, and that inspire me to create, to see the world differently and to make the most out of my interests and talents. I also have a lot of personal elements that make it stand out as uniquely its own from other "design" or "lifestyle" blogs - I share stories from my life, my photographs and thoughts from my personal perspective really openly in an attempt to make Modish feel warm and inviting and encouraging to other women.

2. Why do you prefer to share information and tips on handmade goods and vintage items?

I think it's important to spread the word to consumers that there are other options out there aside from mass-produced goods and big box stores. You don't have to buy unsafe toys from China or sweatshop-labored clothing that falls apart after the first wash. There is a more considerate way to shop, options that are more humane and environmentally friendly, and buying handmade and vintage goods are at the top of that list.

3. What benefits do handmade items offer consumers?

Handmade goods tell a story, have an energy and honesty that mass-produced goods can't even come close to rivaling. Not only are handmade goods unique and few of a kind, they are well and thoughtfully made, crafted with skill and attention that far exceeds manufactured items. And they're personal - when you buy handmade, you often receive an actual hand-written note of thanks along with it, beautiful packaging or a special extra gift. Buying handmade means buying from actual people - skilled, artistic, talented people. And it's also a vote against mass-produced items and the unfair labor practices and environmental waste than often go hand in hand with manufacturing them.

4. What attracts you towards women’s vintage clothes?

I love vintage clothing for many of the same reasons that I love handmade goods - they're unique, often one-of-a-kind, which speaks to my wish to stand out from the crowd and not look like everyone else on the block. A lot of vintage clothing was also made much better than today's cheaply manufactured clothes, which is proven by its ability to have stood the test the time already. But I think the most important aspect of buying vintage is that it's earth-friendly. Buying clothing at thrift stores, vintage shops and estate sales not only saves those items from heading into the overflowing landfills, but doesn't take any new resources to produce. It's recycling stylishly, and you just can't go wrong with that!

5. What advice can you give our mom readers on how to choose pretty yet suitable vintage clothes for themselves?

I think the reason why many people stray away from vintage clothing is because of the "hunt"- it can take a long time to scour through thrift stores just to find a few good things. For a busy mom who doesn't have time to shop all day with the chance of finding nothing, I'd say head to shops that have already down the scouting out for you - vintage clothing shops. You can find them in your town or there are a ton online- search the "vintage" category on etsy just for a start! And make sure you try things on as sizing then was so different than what it is today (or compare measurements to a garment you own if you're shopping online.) It can be really fun shopping for vintage and finding garments that remind you of your youth! Fashion is cyclical so nothing ever really goes out of style for too long.

6. What basic advice can you offer our mom readers who want to start up a creative business?

I say go for it. The hardest part is getting started, but where there is a will, there is a way. Just say to yourself that you can do it. You can fit it into your schedule, and you can be a great mom and have a happy family life at the same time. And who knows? You just may find out that starting your own business is one of the most fulfilling things you've ever done for yourself. And what a great message to send to your children who are beside you along the way - that with hard work and dedication, you can do anything you set your mind to.

7. What important tips can you give upcoming creative business entrepreneurs?

I would say to start with a plan. You'll want to be sure your business idea is unique and fulfils a niche that hasn't yet been overrun. Then plan out how you are going to make money, who you're going to market your business towards, and figure out all the legalities of getting a legitimate business set-up. I have a lot of collected advice on starting your own creative business on my Modish BIZtips blog if you'd like to have a look, including a guide to writing your own business plan. There are a lot of steps and hard work involved in first getting started, but if it's your dream, you can make it a reality.