Monday, November 14, 2011

The Name Game: Blue Elephant Stitches

I'm thrilled to have Jolene from Blue Elephant Stitches here today. I've been reading her blog for a long time. Her creative style speaks so deeply to me--her use of color and her design, her writing and, wow, her photography. Everything is clean, cohesive and colorful. It always cheers me up to spend some time there.

Jolene, how did you choose the name for Blue Elephant Stitches?
Here’s a page from my little journal, put together about 8 years ago.  I saved this little elephant from a 1970’s birthday card and here’s part of what I wrote beside him.
 “My dream has always been to name my future?! business Blue Elephant something-or-other.”
 At that point, I had no idea what, or even IF, that business would be.  But as far back as I can remember, I’ve always like elephants (the cute motifs, not so much real elephants!).  So when I decided to open a little Etsy shop selling a few baby quilts, I never even questioned this part of the name.
 Were there other names you considered, and can you share them with us?
I never questioned the Blue Elephant part of my name, but I remember debating what to finish it off with.  Blue Elephant Quilts?  Blue Elephant Designs?  Blue Elephant Studio?  In the end I went with Blue Elephant Stitches.  I think it was a nice compromise, because it still implies sewing, yet doesn’t box me in with just quilts.  
 Now that you are recognized by Blue Elephant Stitches, are you happy with it, or do you wish you could change it to something else?
I like the name from the standpoint that it stems from my dreams as a teenager, so it feels quite authentic that way.  But to be honest, I’d change it right now if I could!  Why?  For one thing, it feels a bit cutesy – babyish.  I’d really like something a bit more classy!  For some reason I always feel a bit silly when I actually say it out loud.  It’s quite long and a bit unusual.  I often have to repeat it for people.
 (of course I couldn't resist adding a picture with selvages!)
I love names that have numbers as part of their name, or even using full names as a brand.  I wouldn’t want my own name, but I’d love to use my daughter’s name… ok, why am I torturing myself by thinking about all the possibilities?!  I wonder how much effort it would take to change?  Would it be worth it?  I’d love to hear from those of you who have! 
 (there is something about this picture that just draws me in...)
If you aren't already a faithful reader of Blue Elephant Stitches, I encourage you to head over, say hi, and be sure to spend some time looking around. And by all means, if you have changed blog or business names, please share your thoughts. 

Thanks, Jolene. It's been an honor to have you here this week. 

14 comments:

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Leslie said... #

This is a fun post and interesting! I too love Blue Elephant Stitches blog!
thanks for sharing!

Gigi's Thimble said... #

That was fun to read! I think the name is great! But it's fun to hear the background on the name and I like that you used "stitches" at the end of it!

I changed my blog name (before I had most of my followers). I was so embarrassed at my first name and it didn't emply anything about sewing or quilting so I'm glad I changed it. I don't know if I'd do it now though. Unless it's a really simple name or based off of your own name, it will probably always be tempting to change it. But people know you as a certain thing and unless you can't stand it I say stick with it! :)

Take care,
Amber

Archie The Wonder Dog said... #

Another great name game post - I love these!

Timber said... #

What a great concept for a series!

Blue Elephant Stitches feelings about her business/blogging name reminds me a little bit about how I feel about my tattoos! I wish that I could go back and change them, or in my case probably not get them at all!

Letterpress said... #

Fun to read this. I like her honesty in examining all aspects of a name, a brand, as well as its inception.

E.

Rachel at Stitched in Color said... #

This is such a nice series! I didn't know this about you, Jolene. Fun and so cool that you still have the journal.

Maureen Cracknell Handmade said... #

This is such a great idea! I love Blue Elephant Stitches!! :)

Suzanne said... #

This was so fun to read. I found Jolene's blog just tonight after the mention she received on Sew Mama Sew for her Autumn Circle quilt.

Mostafejur said... #
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