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Meet The Founder: Juls Donovan

Hi there! Thank you for visiting me in my little corner of the internet. Salem Style is my dream and my happy place, and I am so happy that you’re here.

I have a habit of not showing my face around here, leaving the question “who is running Salem Style??” Surprise! It’s me, Juls Donovan. I am the founder, CEO, designer, witch in charge of this little brand. On an effort to put myself out there more, here’s a post to introduce myself.

Juls Donovan

I start my day with a cup of coffee before anything else.

My home has been Salem since 2010.

I am a Scorpio Sun, Aquarius Moon, and Capricorn Rising.

Restorative yoga is the best during stressful times.

Go to pizza toppings: Pepperoni & Green Pepper (or plain cheese if it’s Papa Gino’s!)

I have been crocheting since I was about 7 years old.

I was never the “cool kid” and I marched to the beat of my own drum. But I always struggled with what it really meant to be me. I always loved making, and even dabbled in making jewelry when I was 12, even selling some of my creations in a trendy boutique in my home town. 

I started Salem Style as a creative outlet and a way to make a connection. Originally the name came from an idea that I had to start a fashion blog. But I quickly realized that what made my heart happy was creating my own accessories through my many years of experience crocheting.

Salem is magical. Making things is magical. Being true to yourself is magical.

The community that has flourished around Salem Style is the reason why I keep going. To prove that nothing is impossible, and when you really want something, you should go for it. And there’s no better feeling than that.

Stay wild moon child,

Juls

Inspiration of the Poolside Cozy

At the beginning of March this year, I made an announcement that the shop was going to be taking a break. (You probably don’t remember, you’re a busy person!) During this time, we went to Florida to visit my mom and stepdad at their house. It was the first time we flew since the world changed and went somewhere close to home.

It felt great. The moment I changed out of my ”airport clothes” I took a deep breath, put my feet in the pool, and let out a huge sigh of relief. The weight lifted from my shoulders and for a moment, I was fully present and just enjoying being right where I was.

That feeling was the ultimate feeling. Letting go. Releasing tension. Feeling free.

During this trip, I wasn’t planning on buying yarn. But when I went in the store, I saw this yarn that had the same color pallet as the pool. The blue and teal tiles, the tan cement border. This reminded me of that very same pool, and the joy it brought me.

poolside cozy

And with that, I made the Poolside Cozy. So whether you’re going to work, class, checking things off your list, spending the day with your family, or taking a trip of your own – I hope this cozy inspires you to take a moment and find your own poolside.

Because we all need to relax and let go.

Meet the Salem Style Iced Coffee Cozy

Don’t have an iced coffee cozy?

We’ve all been there. You’re craving your favorite cold drink so you decide to get one. When you’re handed that cup, you feel the chill and almost instantly your hands are wet. Now your cup is slippery and your hands are cold and clammy. You put the cup down to dry your hands and when you pick up the cup, puddle. Or worse, you leave the cup for a bit, pick it up, and then put something else where it was. Hope it wasn’t important, because now it’s drenched!

Well, it doesn’t have to be this way. That’s why I created the crochet iced coffee cozy. I wanted to make something that not only insulated the cup, but gave your hands some relief. So many times I would put my iced coffee down on my desk, and important things I was working on feel victim to the puddle.

salem style iced coffee cozy

The Salem Style Iced Coffee Cozy is always handmade using 100% cotton. The cotton is soft, super absorbent, easy to wash, and dries very quickly. No longer will you have to use a second cup, or any other disposable option.

The cozies available in 3 sizes, and the sizes are modeled after the cup sizes at Dunkin’. (This is New England after all!)

The cozies were first released on the first day of spring on March 20, 2015 and are still a fan favorite to this day! I enjoy making them, and I hope they make your iced coffee experience way better!

Crystals: Why We Love Them

I have been drawn to crystals for a very long time, and I have gathered a collection through different situations. A few years ago, I was going to present to a group on how to use Instagram for business. I arrived to the event early, and was very nervous. Anna from A Fine Balance Wellness gave me a Tigers Eye crystal to keep in my pocket. She told me it would help with my confidence and courage.

crystals

Well my friend, I rubbed that crystal in my pocket while I took some deep breaths. I felt my body relax and I created a safe space for myself to breathe before it was time to present. When it was my time, I felt calm, focused, and confident. Yes, I controlled the situation, but having the crystal gave me something to focus on.

Crystals are essentially stones to help with healing. They’re tools to help us with what we need. When you are drawn to one, it’s probably because the energy it represents is what you need. So when you catch yourself noticing a certain one, pay attention to why you may be drawn to it.

I wanted to allow the same feeling I had to be accessible you. That’s why I have a few small collections of crystal items in the shop. There’s even a Tigers Eye necklace to inspire confidence and courage in you.

According to Well + Good, “The more you touch your precious stones, the more you can tap into their energy, so wearing them is a smart strategy.” And well I love to wear crystals because it’s easy. And when you look in the mirror and see yourself wearing it, you can remind yourself of your intention and use the time to check in with yourself.

Taking A Short Break! March 2022

:: SHOP ANNOUNCEMENT:

Rest is so important. The shop is going to be taking a break from March 1st – 10th.

You can still place orders, but they will not ship until after the break is over.

Everything is okay! As a small business owner, I just need some time to step back, rest and recharge.

If you have been needing a break too, I think you should do it.
If there are things that can wait, let them wait.
Take care of you.

As for now, time off is calling, and I’m going to answer

See you later & Stay Wild Moon Child

🖤 Julianna

Our 10 Year Anniversary!

We’re celebrating 10 years in business!!

10 Year Anniversary Salem Style
Amazing Cookies by CUT&iced


I can’t believe today is the 10 year anniversary of Salem Style!

On this day in 2011, I clicked “open shop” on Etsy. I had about 5 listings, and horrible blurry selfies. I didn’t know ANYTHING about running a shop. I figured it would be something I would “try out” until it was time to move on.

But the flame never went out, in fact, it got bigger and stronger.

And with that said …

THANK YOU!!!!! 

If it wasn’t for you, there would be no Salem Style!

Whether you just found us yesterday, or have been here for the entire 10 year journey, I see you and I appreciate you more than you’ll ever know. <3

So again, thank you, from the bottom of my heart.

xo – Juls

Holiday Gift Guide 2021 :: Stocking Stuffers

We couldn’t have a gift guide in the series of 2021 Holiday Gift Guides without – Stocking Stuffers! Whether you’re stuffing an actual stocking, or just looking for something small and fun, here are some items that are sure to bring a smile to their face!

1. A Manifest Wish Bracelet from Eleven Love. Perfect for anyone with big dreams and makes wishes at 11:11.

2. “Lumps -O- Coal” Protection Intention Set from Elevated Wisdom. If someone is getting a lump of coal in their stocking, better make it crystals with properties that protect your space from unwanted negative energy!

3. This Almond Macchiato Body Cream from Xpressive Mocha. Because what’s better than soft hydrated skin and smelling like a delicious hot beverage??

4. A super cozy ear warmer, like the Anderson Ear Warmer from Salem Style. This ear warmer is perfect for anyone who is “not a hat person” but also hates those other ear warmers that squeeze your head.

5. An You Are Enough Hand-lettered Sticker from Shop Bits of Joy. Because everyone should hear this and someone could sure use the reminder!

The best part about all of these gift ideas? They all come from small businesses! If you’re looking for even more small businesses to shop from this holiday season, check out the Shop 1-in-5 Pledge Small Business Directory.

Holiday Gift Guide 2021 :: Someone You Don’t Know Well

This was by far the most popular guide last year, so it’s back! Holiday Gift Guide – Gifts for Someone You Don’t Know Well.

Oh man! Haven’t we all been there?? A new coworker? Your neighbor? Someone you got for Secret Santa? Someone your sibling just started dating? Or even someone you just started dating???

It’s so tough because you want to give something thoughtful, but you’re not sure where to start. Here are some ideas that you really can’t go wrong with! They’re all special items that will make the lucky recipient really excited! And maybe they’ll go from someone you don’t know, to someone you DO know??

gifts for someone you don't know

1. This Don’t Be Afraid to Take Whisks Pot Holder Gift Set from Bobbi Jean K. Because who doesn’t love some motivation? And a great pun??

2. The Salty Soap Trio from Salty Girl Beauty. Because literally everyone could use a set of awesome soaps that smell oh so good!

3. A Swedish Dishcloth from A Drop In The Ocean. And pro-tip from the shop owner, wrap this dishcloth around a bottle of wine for an awesome host gift idea!

4. The Iced Coffee Cozy from Salem Style. Because if they have ever had a cup of anything cold to drink, they’ll appreciate the wonders this little cozy can do!

5. The Christmas Treats Gift Box from Miller Road Made. Because who doesn’t love a cozy winter day wrapped up in a box??

The best part about all of these gift ideas? They all come from small businesses! If you’re looking for even more small businesses to shop from this holiday season, check out the Shop 1-in-5 Pledge Small Business Directory.

Holiday Gift Guide 2021 :: That Man In Your Life

Here’s a new category for the 2021 Holiday Gift Guides – Gifts for That Man In Your Life. Now he may be your husband or boyfriend, or whatever. You KNOW who I am talking about and you’re like “why are men SO DIFFICULT to buy for?” Well my friend, here are a few ideas to get you started. And he’s going to be so psyched.

gifts for men - man gift guide

1. A bar of Fierce Man Soap from Soaps From A Chemist. And the fact that he will smell so good is kind of a gift for you too, right??

2. A stunning handmade Farmhouse Shave Bowl from Creek Road Pottery. He can also use the bowl to keep toiletries in as well.

3. A Celebration Beer Cake Mix from Molly & You. All he needs to add is a beer and an egg and *poof* he’ll make delicious treats.

4. The Dunnie Beanie from Salem Style. Because we could all use a great hat, and he’ll love how this one looks and fits.

5. A jar of Awaken Coffee Scrub from simple in nature. He’ll love the smell, and will feel refreshed.

The best part about all of these gift ideas? They all come from small businesses! If you’re looking for even more small businesses to shop from this holiday season, check out the Shop 1-in-5 Pledge Small Business Directory.

Holiday Gift Guide 2021 :: Your Mom

Introducing the third in the series of 2021 Holiday Gift Guides – Your Mom. Sometimes it can be challenging to find gifts for your mom. Whether it’s your mother, step-mother, mother-in-law, or anyone else that fills that motherly role in your life, here are some ideas for gifts this year she is sure to love!

Mom gift guide

1. A super cozy cardigan and pants Go With The Flow Ritual Set from Prism Wheel Designs. Not only will she be living her coziest life, this set includes a crystal wheel that snaps into the clothing and includes a ritual for her to take some time for herself!

2. A Customized Tumbler from Get Well Gift Shop to remind her of how much you mean to her when she is on the go!

3. An Aromatherapy Pen from Essential Ink. This will help her de-stress, especially if she’s using it to fill out her planner she keeps her packed schedule in. (Hi Mom!)

4. The oversized Essex scarf from Salem Style. So for when she does have to go out, she’ll be bundled up and extra cozy.

5. A pair of beautiful Palm Leaf Earrings from Lynnique will give her all the tropical vibes, even if there’s a foot of snow on the ground!

The best part about all of these gift ideas? They all come from small businesses! Aaaaaand if you’re looking for even more small businesses to shop from this holiday season, check out the Shop 1-in-5 Pledge Small Business Directory.