(Photo) RW On the Web 1
SUSAN MORAN | ROCKFORD WOMAN
Krystine Vermeer produces handmade purses in her home workshop for her online business, The Purse-onality Shoppe.
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Locally made girlie stuff

By Autumn Carpenter

ROCKFORD WOMAN

Aug 24, 2007 @ 08:34 PM

The Web is a great source for quick answers. But busy women don’t always have time to scan the Internet for needed information; that’s our job.


Thepurse-onalityshoppe.com

What it is: This Rockford company’s motto is: “Be original. Be you!” Customers can choose from customized handbags, totes, diaper bags, and purses, ranging from $12 to $40.

Quote: The Purse-onality Shoppe owner, Krystine R. Vermeer, a self-proclaimed color, prints, and textures addict, says new handbags are added to the Web site on a daily basis. “We also offer Purse-onality Parties, where we turn a home or office into a handbag boutique filled with handbag samples, ideas, fabrics, ribbons, buttons and more. Party-goers choose the design elements, celebrate a night out with friends and receive their purse within a month.”

Why you should bookmark it: Creative bags at reasonable prices. The site is constantly updated and brimming with sweet finds.


Jadesbeadedjewelry.com

What it is: This Rockford company’s Web site showcases a plethora of handmade jewelry designs, including colorful beaded necklaces, bracelets, earrings, anklets, watches, jewelry sets, custom bridal jewelry, children’s jewelry, camera and cell-phone catcher bracelets, and beaded crystal-fan and light pulls. Soon it will be featured in “1000 Jewelry Details,” by Rockford Publishers.

Quote: “All handmade beaded jewelry is not created equal,” says Judy Lynn-Bieck, Jades Creations Handcrafted Beaded Jewelry’s main designer. “None of our designs are mass produced. We utilize the best products available, such as unique gemstones, stunning pearls, Swarovski crystals, lampwork beads and glass beads.”

Why you should bookmark it: The selection is vast, and the handcrafted jewelry is distinctive and reasonably priced.

BoomerGirl.com

What it is: A Baby Boomers’ online community that grants women in midlife a voice. It offers tips on beauty, travel, family, divorce, design, spirituality, dating, business and Spanish. There is even a section called ‘The Men’s Room’ which addresses men’s wellness issues, because many women are concerned about their significant other’s health.

Quote: Cathy Hamilton, BoomerGirl’s director says, “Women over 40 just aren’t seeing themselves in today’s media. We encourage women to get involved by submitting editorials, forming online clubs and blogging. This summer we will ask our readers to submit photos for a model search, so that our site truly reflects our demographic.”

Why you should bookmark it: Boomergirl.com keeps it real, providing a valuable forum for women to commiserate, swap recipes, and feel part of the club.