I am a big believer in learning by doing. Being an auditory learner myself, I don't always need to, but whenever possible, I do. Learning by doing activates the kinesthetic part of one's brain and puts all the pieces together, visual, auditory and physical. The best way to learn a new skill, is by taking a workshop in which you get to practice the skill you are learning. The best teachers know this and use it in their daily practice. But we also learn by experiences, good and bad. This applies especially well to shows.
When we, as adults, are going to learn something new, we need to keep a few things in mind.
First, is to observe everything. I can't tell you how many workshops I have been in where people (including myself) are so eager to finish the project, they don't listen to the instructions or they don't bother to watch the demonstration. This is a huge mistake. The instructor is teaching for a reason, because they are an expert in the skill. We as learners need to take advantage of that. Take in all details and if you need to, write them down so you can look back on them later. When you are learning something like selling your product at a show. Observe how people react to the information you give them. You may find that something you know as fact and deal with every day, others may find extremely interesting and surprising. Observe who comes into your booth and stays to chat or make a purchase. I have found that husbands are an untapped market at most shows. So, when a husband or boyfriend comes into my booth, I am sure to say hello and casually mention what great gifts earrings make.
Secondly, Ask Questions. If you don't understand, ask. So many people go through a conversation not knowing just because they don't want to appear unintelligent. This is absurd! I feel that the indicator of a great mind is one that knows that they cannot possibly know everything. In a workshop setting, you paid to understand the skill so you should understand it when you leave. I like to leave a workshop with such a complete understanding, that I could do it by myself at home. In a show setting, asking "how did you hear about the event?" is a valuable way to figure out if the show has been publicized. Also, asking if the person is looking for anything in particular saves them time if you don't have what their looking for and helps you to show them certain items they may be interested in. Asking questions of your customer and being genuinely interested in their answer makes you a great sales person and gives your customer an excellent experience.
Lastly, Reflect. I know this sounds a bit corny, but I've found it very valuable. In a workshop setting, after the workshop is over, I like to sit down and run through the steps of the skill in my head. Thinking through the logistics helps me to see if there are any gaps in my learning. If so, I like to research the skill or process and if need be, ask for help. After a show is over, I do a lot of reflecting on my drive home. I think about how many sales I made that day. If I got any custom orders, I plan out when those are going to get done. And I think about the customers that came out that day. When I get home, I write down my reflections to look back on the next time I go to apply for that show.
Being a great learner is just as important as being a great craftsman. When I start to think about it, they really go hand in hand.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Shows part 2
As I said yesterday, I will speak to shows that weren't worth returning to. Before I get into the nitty gritty, let me state that there is no such thing as a useless show. All shows have some kind of use, whether or not you sell anything, people are seeing your work and you are getting your name out there. There have been a few shows that I have participated in that I haven't sold a thing but gained a gallery spot or a tip on another show. It's very easy to look at a low income show and get down on it, but as an artist you are always learning and evolving, so keep your chin up and stay positive :)
What makes an event worth returning to?
Obviously the number one factor is sales. I have heard that a truly successful show is one that sells ten times your booth fee. So if you paid thirty dollars to be there, you should make three hundred. For some shows, this is unrealistic. It's a nice goal and definitely an indicator if your target market came out to that event. I think that five times your booth fee is one I may try again if my schedule permits, eight times your booth fee is worth putting on your calendar for next year and ten times your booth fee is a for sure thing next time.
Another factor is the feel of the crowd. Did people come into your booth and listen to what you told them about your product, or did they walk right by? If you can distinctly remember each person you talked to, there probably weren't enough people interested to make it worth going back. But if you felt like you just talked and talked all day and it was just a blur of people in and out of your booth, it is worth going back.
I also take into account other factors that don't have to do with the customer at all. Like was set-up and break down organized? If not, I would have to make ten times my booth fee to even think about returning to an unorganized show. Did you have volunteers come around and ask to watch your booth while you went to the bathroom or got something to eat? This is a big help when you are working your booth alone and it makes the show more comfortable for everyone. Was there another booth that was exactly like yours? If so, the organizers weren't in the market for diversity and then it makes the show too competitive for you and the other person who does the same thing you do. Was the show publicized? Sometimes you'll get great traffic at a show but not because it was publicized, but because people were out at another nearby event or just out walking around. If customers come into your booth and in conversation mention that they just happened along this event, it's a red flag that the organizers did not publicize the event. With all the free marketing and social media opportunities out now, there is just no excuse in my mind.
Like I said before, there are no useless shows. But you, as a prudent business person, have to determine the worth of the show. If you did it once, and feel you have exhausted its worth, you don't have to go back. This is also your choice as to how busy you want to be and how many shows you want to do.
What makes an event worth returning to?
Obviously the number one factor is sales. I have heard that a truly successful show is one that sells ten times your booth fee. So if you paid thirty dollars to be there, you should make three hundred. For some shows, this is unrealistic. It's a nice goal and definitely an indicator if your target market came out to that event. I think that five times your booth fee is one I may try again if my schedule permits, eight times your booth fee is worth putting on your calendar for next year and ten times your booth fee is a for sure thing next time.
Another factor is the feel of the crowd. Did people come into your booth and listen to what you told them about your product, or did they walk right by? If you can distinctly remember each person you talked to, there probably weren't enough people interested to make it worth going back. But if you felt like you just talked and talked all day and it was just a blur of people in and out of your booth, it is worth going back.
I also take into account other factors that don't have to do with the customer at all. Like was set-up and break down organized? If not, I would have to make ten times my booth fee to even think about returning to an unorganized show. Did you have volunteers come around and ask to watch your booth while you went to the bathroom or got something to eat? This is a big help when you are working your booth alone and it makes the show more comfortable for everyone. Was there another booth that was exactly like yours? If so, the organizers weren't in the market for diversity and then it makes the show too competitive for you and the other person who does the same thing you do. Was the show publicized? Sometimes you'll get great traffic at a show but not because it was publicized, but because people were out at another nearby event or just out walking around. If customers come into your booth and in conversation mention that they just happened along this event, it's a red flag that the organizers did not publicize the event. With all the free marketing and social media opportunities out now, there is just no excuse in my mind.
Like I said before, there are no useless shows. But you, as a prudent business person, have to determine the worth of the show. If you did it once, and feel you have exhausted its worth, you don't have to go back. This is also your choice as to how busy you want to be and how many shows you want to do.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Shows parts 1
Festivals, Craft Fairs, Art Walks, and Markets. These are some of the names my events go by. At these events is where I make the most of my income. Today, I'll be talking about what to look for in a successful event and how to ensure returning customers to make a successful event.
When looking for events, it pays to do your research and envision the event before you apply. In doing research, I recommend visiting the event before applying. This way, you get a good feel for the customer that will show up and what kind of vendors the event planners are looking for. Also, take into account juried versus not juried. I also make sure to read all the information on the application including if food vendors are applying. All these factors give you clues as to what the event will be like. For example, if there are food vendors and kid friendly activities, you can bet that the customer base will be families. I look at the longevity of the event also. The longer the event has been going on, the more loyal shoppers there will be.
To ensure returning customers, a few things need to come into play. First of all, you need to be present, not only physically but mentally also. Being excited about your product is contagious. When people walk into your booth, greet them and anticipate any questions they may have. Secondly, educate your customer. Be willing to explain your process and why you do what you do. And lastly, even if they don't make a purchase, send them away with at least a business card if not a post card with your information and a place to go to find your future shows.
Tomorrow I'll be talking about events that weren't worth returning to.
When looking for events, it pays to do your research and envision the event before you apply. In doing research, I recommend visiting the event before applying. This way, you get a good feel for the customer that will show up and what kind of vendors the event planners are looking for. Also, take into account juried versus not juried. I also make sure to read all the information on the application including if food vendors are applying. All these factors give you clues as to what the event will be like. For example, if there are food vendors and kid friendly activities, you can bet that the customer base will be families. I look at the longevity of the event also. The longer the event has been going on, the more loyal shoppers there will be.
To ensure returning customers, a few things need to come into play. First of all, you need to be present, not only physically but mentally also. Being excited about your product is contagious. When people walk into your booth, greet them and anticipate any questions they may have. Secondly, educate your customer. Be willing to explain your process and why you do what you do. And lastly, even if they don't make a purchase, send them away with at least a business card if not a post card with your information and a place to go to find your future shows.
Tomorrow I'll be talking about events that weren't worth returning to.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Pricing
Sigh, this is a touchy subject. Everyone has their own formulas for pricing that work for them. Here is a good example of a pricing formula.
At a recent Mompreneurs Meet Up we were doing an ice breaker exercise and the question came up, what business mistake will you never make again? A very wise woman answered, I will never again undervalue myself. WOAH! This struck the nail on the head. I had undervalued myself for a long time and learned the hard way that my time and skill set are valuable and cannot be negotiated.
Because I'm the one making the pieces, I don't see the skills as anything special. Let me rephrase, I don't see my skills as outside my creative reach. But, thinking about my customers, they do not have these skills. This is why they are shopping with me, because they value my skills and creativity. That being said I need to value them also. This gave rise to my pricing formula and the fact that my prices are set and not negotiable.
Sometimes at shows you will get those people who look at a price and give you the "you want me to pay what?" look. In the early days of selling, this made me doubt my formula. Now, I just ignore it and they move on because I know that a customer will come along who loves my work and appreciates the time and skills put into it and will show that appreciation with a purchase. People are willing to pay for my quality items. When I thought about it, I am willing to pay for quality items, like tools. So, why shouldn't my customers be willing to pay for quality jewelry. (More on how to target those customers coming later)
I have found that in order to create a successful business, you need to cover your costs and pay yourself. The formula helps me to take all of that into account.
At a recent Mompreneurs Meet Up we were doing an ice breaker exercise and the question came up, what business mistake will you never make again? A very wise woman answered, I will never again undervalue myself. WOAH! This struck the nail on the head. I had undervalued myself for a long time and learned the hard way that my time and skill set are valuable and cannot be negotiated.
Because I'm the one making the pieces, I don't see the skills as anything special. Let me rephrase, I don't see my skills as outside my creative reach. But, thinking about my customers, they do not have these skills. This is why they are shopping with me, because they value my skills and creativity. That being said I need to value them also. This gave rise to my pricing formula and the fact that my prices are set and not negotiable.
Sometimes at shows you will get those people who look at a price and give you the "you want me to pay what?" look. In the early days of selling, this made me doubt my formula. Now, I just ignore it and they move on because I know that a customer will come along who loves my work and appreciates the time and skills put into it and will show that appreciation with a purchase. People are willing to pay for my quality items. When I thought about it, I am willing to pay for quality items, like tools. So, why shouldn't my customers be willing to pay for quality jewelry. (More on how to target those customers coming later)
I have found that in order to create a successful business, you need to cover your costs and pay yourself. The formula helps me to take all of that into account.
Taking a Time Out
This is very easy for me to write about right now, because I have no shows to get ready for or deadlines to meet. Actually, I planned on writing this post yesterday, but took time with my family instead.
I cannot stress enough how important it is to take time for yourself. Whether you take it a little at a time or have slow periods when you can take as much as you want, it is imperative. Though during my time outs, I may still think about work and business, the processing time helps me to think through ideas and absorb things. Another big reason I take time outs, is to appreciate going back to work. I always am grateful to be back at my bench after a time out.
I cannot stress enough how important it is to take time for yourself. Whether you take it a little at a time or have slow periods when you can take as much as you want, it is imperative. Though during my time outs, I may still think about work and business, the processing time helps me to think through ideas and absorb things. Another big reason I take time outs, is to appreciate going back to work. I always am grateful to be back at my bench after a time out.
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| This past weekend, I had all kinds of family visit for my son's baptism. It was a good time out and I will appreciate going back to the bench next week. |
Friday, June 22, 2012
Support part 3
I have talked about this before, I know, but I really feel it's important.
My husband has always been very supportive of my jewelry / metal smithing endeavors. In the beginning, he was supportive both financially and emotionally. Now that the business is self-sustaining, he is supportive emotionally. Once, the morning of a show I came down with the flu. I was violently ill and could absolutely not go and man my booth. My wonderful husband, went for me! He stood at my booth all day and talked to people about jewelry while I stayed home with our son and rested and got over the bug. Let me tell you, he doesn't know a lot about the technical aspect of what I do but he held his own and made great sales that day. If that's not support, I don't know what is.
My family, like my parents and sister, were a little skeptical at first. I think they saw it as a glorified hobby. I don't think they ever saw me making a successful business out of it. Once they saw my set-up and heard me talk about the different shows I was getting into, they began to take it a little more seriously. Now, for Christmas and my birthday, I get metal smithing tools.
The most important part of my support system is my husband. His mantra is if it makes me happy, life is good. He has been there since the beginning and will support me in whichever direction I choose to go. This is beyond invaluable! I attribute a part of my success to him, because without him, I wouldn't have had the courage and confidence to go forward and grow my business and skill set.
My husband has always been very supportive of my jewelry / metal smithing endeavors. In the beginning, he was supportive both financially and emotionally. Now that the business is self-sustaining, he is supportive emotionally. Once, the morning of a show I came down with the flu. I was violently ill and could absolutely not go and man my booth. My wonderful husband, went for me! He stood at my booth all day and talked to people about jewelry while I stayed home with our son and rested and got over the bug. Let me tell you, he doesn't know a lot about the technical aspect of what I do but he held his own and made great sales that day. If that's not support, I don't know what is.
My family, like my parents and sister, were a little skeptical at first. I think they saw it as a glorified hobby. I don't think they ever saw me making a successful business out of it. Once they saw my set-up and heard me talk about the different shows I was getting into, they began to take it a little more seriously. Now, for Christmas and my birthday, I get metal smithing tools.
The most important part of my support system is my husband. His mantra is if it makes me happy, life is good. He has been there since the beginning and will support me in whichever direction I choose to go. This is beyond invaluable! I attribute a part of my success to him, because without him, I wouldn't have had the courage and confidence to go forward and grow my business and skill set.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Time Management
With most artists, time management is tricky. When the muses move you, you're on a roll and creating things left and right. But when you're not so inspired, how do you stay on track?
I have found that flexibility is really the key. I tend to drive myself too hard in preparing for shows or to drop things off at a store. I don't want to be doing nothing either. I think there is a nice balance in between. When I'm inspired and excited about a piece, I have to make it. I spend most of my time on the new piece. The trick I've learned is to write down what I'm doing, so that if that piece is a good seller, I have a formula to make it again and I don't have to reinvent the wheel. When I'm not inspired or I have an event coming up, I focus on production pieces. Pieces that I know will sell well that I have tried-and-true formulas for. Making these in multiples helps also so that I can have some out on display at my stores as well as having a few for shows.
Because I focus my selling energy into craft shows, I have two dead times during the year, January to March and June to August. These are times when I prefer to take classes and take on other projects that may not be related to jewelry. For example, I just spent this past week refinishing a table and bench for our dining room. I have not had time between that, my son and getting ready for guests to even touch my workbench. For this time of year, that's ok. I have a lot more flexability right now. Come August though, I have to buckle down and focus on work.
I call it work but it's not, I love what I do. When it starts feeling like work, I'll slow down to where it's enjoyable. That is another thing about making your own schedule in a business like this. My goal is not to become a corporate business, I am in this to create beautiful things and bring joy to my customers. As long as I can continue to do that, I'm happy. This was something I determined a long time ago, when I first got into selling my jewelry. It has kept me sane and in balance with family and work.
I have found that flexibility is really the key. I tend to drive myself too hard in preparing for shows or to drop things off at a store. I don't want to be doing nothing either. I think there is a nice balance in between. When I'm inspired and excited about a piece, I have to make it. I spend most of my time on the new piece. The trick I've learned is to write down what I'm doing, so that if that piece is a good seller, I have a formula to make it again and I don't have to reinvent the wheel. When I'm not inspired or I have an event coming up, I focus on production pieces. Pieces that I know will sell well that I have tried-and-true formulas for. Making these in multiples helps also so that I can have some out on display at my stores as well as having a few for shows.
Because I focus my selling energy into craft shows, I have two dead times during the year, January to March and June to August. These are times when I prefer to take classes and take on other projects that may not be related to jewelry. For example, I just spent this past week refinishing a table and bench for our dining room. I have not had time between that, my son and getting ready for guests to even touch my workbench. For this time of year, that's ok. I have a lot more flexability right now. Come August though, I have to buckle down and focus on work.
I call it work but it's not, I love what I do. When it starts feeling like work, I'll slow down to where it's enjoyable. That is another thing about making your own schedule in a business like this. My goal is not to become a corporate business, I am in this to create beautiful things and bring joy to my customers. As long as I can continue to do that, I'm happy. This was something I determined a long time ago, when I first got into selling my jewelry. It has kept me sane and in balance with family and work.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Photography
Photography is a sore subject for me. I have struggled with photography for some time and after many failed attempts, I gave up and have someone else shoot my items for me. I take the point of view that I can only be good at so many things, photography isn't one of them. Instead of spending time trying to learn how to take a great product shot or use editing software, I am spending my time perfecting my metal smithing and enameling skills. Here are some examples of my failed attempts at photography. In looking through my horrible pictures, I also noticed a progression in my work. It's nice to see how far I've come :)
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| Bad background choice and not all in focus |
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| bad lighting |
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| too dark |
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| This was my first enameled piece. It's a great piece but the picture is way too dark |
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| I started taking pictures outside, good light but too much shadow |
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| the contrast on this one is way too high, black was not a good background choice |
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| I then tried a photo box, still too much shadow |
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| Ahh, that's better. Yes, this is one done by a professional |
So, the moral of today's post is, when you struggle with something that is not your craft, admit defeat. It's better to pay someone who will do a great job, than spend time away from what you do to learn it.
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Inspiration
Because I am responsible for my creation from conception to fabrication, I often find myself needing a little inspiration. When I'm in an inspiration slump, I usually work on production items, things that I have a formula for that I know will sell and I can make multiples of. This keeps me in touch with my craft as well as doing something useful.
Places I find inspiration, like all artists, is the world around me. I have always been awed by the natural world and how so much diversity flourishes. Each plant and animal have their unique characteristics that help them to survive, yet they are all so different. Lately, I have been focusing on plant forms but I have done some insect pieces also. Creating animals is very difficult in metal because they need to portray the animals likeness and be recognizable as that animal. This is harder than you think for metal smiths.
When I am inspired to create a piece, it is often all I can think about until it is finished. This is very helpful because I work out a lot of the technical problems in my head before I even start the piece. Also, once a piece is finished and I have worked out a formula, it goes into my little black book of designs for when I'm in an inspiration slump. This process has worked for me so far, so if it's not broke, don't fix it!
Places I find inspiration, like all artists, is the world around me. I have always been awed by the natural world and how so much diversity flourishes. Each plant and animal have their unique characteristics that help them to survive, yet they are all so different. Lately, I have been focusing on plant forms but I have done some insect pieces also. Creating animals is very difficult in metal because they need to portray the animals likeness and be recognizable as that animal. This is harder than you think for metal smiths.
When I am inspired to create a piece, it is often all I can think about until it is finished. This is very helpful because I work out a lot of the technical problems in my head before I even start the piece. Also, once a piece is finished and I have worked out a formula, it goes into my little black book of designs for when I'm in an inspiration slump. This process has worked for me so far, so if it's not broke, don't fix it!
Monday, June 18, 2012
Workshop / Studio Space
Jewelry tends to be a smaller craft. Unlike pottery or sculpture, which tend to take up a lot of space. I am lucky enough to have my workspace contained in our bonus room. I use an 8ft X 4ft table (2x4basics 90164 Workbench and Shelving Storage System) that my husband put together for me. It fits three stations. A bench pin station for drilling, sawing and filing. A soldering station for torch work. And an enameling station with the kiln and all my enameling tools. Some of my tools were bought new, like pliers and torches. But some of my tools are second hand, like my kiln. And still others I have made or scavenged from other parts of the house, like paintbrushes, mugs to organize tools and picks I have made from brass wire. My workbench is rarely ever "clean", but everything is where I can find it and it makes sense to me. I do, for safety reasons, thoroughly clean my bench about once a quarter.
I like this set up for multiple reasons. As a mom, having my workspace in the house works out very well. Because I am situated in the bonus room, my son can play as I work and when he needs me, I am right there for him. Right now we have what I call "the great wall" set up so that he can't get to my workbench but I can still see him. Also, as he gets older and understands more, he will see the value of making something with your hands as well as the self discipline to set your own work hours. As a metal-smith, having my son there helps me to stay grounded and take breaks. I can often get completely lost in a project and all of a sudden, I have spent the whole day working on one thing. Having him there keeps me focused and on schedule. I also get a lot of work done during his naps. This also helps me to focus and stay on schedule because I know I only have a limited amount of time to work.
Something I love about my workspace is that it is mine alone. I am the only one who touches it and I alone have decorated it. It is so easy to get caught up in being a mom and give away everything you are, I think sometimes you loose your own identity when you do that. I encourage everyone to have a sacred space for them to work. A space that makes sense to you and that only you use. I feel that I can never loose myself if I have something that is mine alone. It may seem selfish, but it keeps me sane and makes me a better mom.
I like this set up for multiple reasons. As a mom, having my workspace in the house works out very well. Because I am situated in the bonus room, my son can play as I work and when he needs me, I am right there for him. Right now we have what I call "the great wall" set up so that he can't get to my workbench but I can still see him. Also, as he gets older and understands more, he will see the value of making something with your hands as well as the self discipline to set your own work hours. As a metal-smith, having my son there helps me to stay grounded and take breaks. I can often get completely lost in a project and all of a sudden, I have spent the whole day working on one thing. Having him there keeps me focused and on schedule. I also get a lot of work done during his naps. This also helps me to focus and stay on schedule because I know I only have a limited amount of time to work.
Something I love about my workspace is that it is mine alone. I am the only one who touches it and I alone have decorated it. It is so easy to get caught up in being a mom and give away everything you are, I think sometimes you loose your own identity when you do that. I encourage everyone to have a sacred space for them to work. A space that makes sense to you and that only you use. I feel that I can never loose myself if I have something that is mine alone. It may seem selfish, but it keeps me sane and makes me a better mom.
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| Enameling Station |
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| Soldering Station |
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| Bench Pin Station |
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| The Great Wall |
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| More of the great wall and my decor |
Friday, June 15, 2012
Support part 2
Yesterday's post was all about having support on the business side of things. Today I'd like to talk about support on the artistic side of things.
Metalsmiths Unite is a group on Facebook to which I belong. I have looked at other group's pages and have been surprised with the negativity that comes through the posts. Metalsmiths Unite is not at all that way. The group is made up of beginners all the way to professionals. I have found nothing but positive feedback and support from the members. Having no formal metal smithing education (just workshops), I admittedly have some gaps in my learning. Whenever I post a question or pose a problem, no matter how basic, Metalsmiths Unite comes to the rescue. I am not the only person whom Metalsmiths Unite has rescued. Many members post regularly and find support from metalsmiths across the world. When I say support, I am referring to not only the tactical questions about soldering and tool recommendations but also the occasional slump or bad day. It's so nice to have a group of people who understand all the metal jargon and what it means to be an artist creating in metal.
Being not only a metalsmith but also an enamelist, I also belong to a formal organization called The Enamelists Society (www.enamelistsociety.org). I pay a yearly membership fee which has proved its worth many times over. Each quarter, I receive a newsletter with the latest happenings in the enamel world. With inspiring pictures, updates on exhibitions and the latest offerings of classes, I find myself very exited when the envelope arrives. When it does come, I have to read it cover to cover before filing it for future reference.
Lastly, I belong to another online group called Grains of Glass (www.grainsofglass.com). This group is specifically for enamelists and is a great source of inspiration. There are many groups within this site for the different techniques (for example: champleve, cloisonne, and torch firing). This allows me to explore different techniques within enameling. I have received very positive feedback and support on this site as well.
Belonging to these groups will always be a part of being an artist. Especially being a metalsmith and an enamelist, these trades can be very isolating. Having people who understand and being able to connect, whether it's through the internet or snail mail, is invaluable.
Metalsmiths Unite is a group on Facebook to which I belong. I have looked at other group's pages and have been surprised with the negativity that comes through the posts. Metalsmiths Unite is not at all that way. The group is made up of beginners all the way to professionals. I have found nothing but positive feedback and support from the members. Having no formal metal smithing education (just workshops), I admittedly have some gaps in my learning. Whenever I post a question or pose a problem, no matter how basic, Metalsmiths Unite comes to the rescue. I am not the only person whom Metalsmiths Unite has rescued. Many members post regularly and find support from metalsmiths across the world. When I say support, I am referring to not only the tactical questions about soldering and tool recommendations but also the occasional slump or bad day. It's so nice to have a group of people who understand all the metal jargon and what it means to be an artist creating in metal.
Being not only a metalsmith but also an enamelist, I also belong to a formal organization called The Enamelists Society (www.enamelistsociety.org). I pay a yearly membership fee which has proved its worth many times over. Each quarter, I receive a newsletter with the latest happenings in the enamel world. With inspiring pictures, updates on exhibitions and the latest offerings of classes, I find myself very exited when the envelope arrives. When it does come, I have to read it cover to cover before filing it for future reference.
Lastly, I belong to another online group called Grains of Glass (www.grainsofglass.com). This group is specifically for enamelists and is a great source of inspiration. There are many groups within this site for the different techniques (for example: champleve, cloisonne, and torch firing). This allows me to explore different techniques within enameling. I have received very positive feedback and support on this site as well.
Belonging to these groups will always be a part of being an artist. Especially being a metalsmith and an enamelist, these trades can be very isolating. Having people who understand and being able to connect, whether it's through the internet or snail mail, is invaluable.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Support part 1
The next few posts will be about the people I have surrounded myself with and the professional groups I belong to.
I am a firm believer in surrounding yourself with good people who want the best for you. In return you have to be a good person and want the best for the people around you. In my quest to create this surrounding for myself, I have found some great groups that I belong to.
One of these groups is the Raleigh Mompreneurs (a Facebook group). This is a group of local women who all own their own businesses. Cary, the founder of the group, is very welcoming and fosters an atmosphere of support and positivity. At the monthly meet ups, we meet at a location and usually just socialize. The great thing about just socializing is that we all start talking about work. Just like when you get a bunch of teachers together, they talk about their students. Making these connections have been invaluable to me. They are re energizing and inspiring. I always walk away with a renewed energy, great guidance, and some great ideas for my business.
I encourage anyone who feels daunted, isolated or just in a slump, to find a group like the Raleigh Mompreneurs that is supportive and positive.
I am a firm believer in surrounding yourself with good people who want the best for you. In return you have to be a good person and want the best for the people around you. In my quest to create this surrounding for myself, I have found some great groups that I belong to.
One of these groups is the Raleigh Mompreneurs (a Facebook group). This is a group of local women who all own their own businesses. Cary, the founder of the group, is very welcoming and fosters an atmosphere of support and positivity. At the monthly meet ups, we meet at a location and usually just socialize. The great thing about just socializing is that we all start talking about work. Just like when you get a bunch of teachers together, they talk about their students. Making these connections have been invaluable to me. They are re energizing and inspiring. I always walk away with a renewed energy, great guidance, and some great ideas for my business.
I encourage anyone who feels daunted, isolated or just in a slump, to find a group like the Raleigh Mompreneurs that is supportive and positive.
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| The Mompreneurs at the June Meet Up |
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Introductions
As a metal-smith, mom and business woman I am starting this blog to
connect. I want to connect with my customers, near and far, in a new
and meaningful way. I would like to give supporters and admirers of my
art a little peek behind the scenes. Welcome to Erin Brown Designs
Jewelry Blog! Here are some examples of my work.
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| This is one of my signature pieces called Nourishing Rain |
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| Butterfly Necklace from the Metamorphosis Series |
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| Caterpillar Bracelet from the Metamorphosis Series |
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| Chrysalis Broach from the Metamorphosis Series |
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| Tiger Lily Necklace |
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