I find out who the buyer is and usually have to send photos and a line list. After that, success comes from follow-up, follow-up, and follow-up.
10. Many artists sell through consignment. Have you ever done this? What is your opinion of consignment?
I don’t like consignment. I’ve done it and I don’t like it. The stores don’t care about your jewelry or if it gets tarnished etc.
11. You have a lot of pieces on your site and you sell in so many shops, you must have a large volume required of you. Do you still have time to make each piece, or do you create the design and have others make the production pieces?
I still make most of it but during holidays like Christmas I contract some of the work out.
11. How well have you done with selling over the Internet through your web site? Does it provide you with any real income or do you use it more of a way to show case our work?
Selling through the net has mainly worked with existing customers or their references. It allows an affordable way to showcase work (as catalogs are extremely expensive). Web generates income if you get publicity or online advertising.
12. Have you ever done any art shows or trade shows? If so, which ones do you normally participate in?
Not yet. Haven’t been able to afford the costs of a trade show.
13. Do you import any of the beads or findings you use for your jewelry, or do you purchase them through wholesale outlets?
I purchase wholesale. I like to see and touch what I buy.
14. Your web site has a cute personality to it, and there are a lot of nice pictures of your work. Do you do any of the web work yourself, or do you have a web master?
I'm the web master. Urggh sometimes its a pain in the butt. I designed the site and had a web person put together the mechanics. After that, I have been doing the rest from updating to editing etc.
15. If you could go back in time and change something about your business, what would it be?
Nothing - I am where I am for the path I have taken, mistakes and all.
16. What are your plans, hopes, and dreams for the future of your jewelry company?
I wanna be big! :)
17. What advice would you give other jewelry makers who want to do what you do?
Follow your heart. Believe in yourself (This isn’t easy but hopefully you will have moral support from friends and loved ones to remind you when you are feeling discouraged).
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