Featured Seller - SweetRoxs

What part of the world are you in?
California, USA

What does customer service mean to you?
It means treating the customer well. Delivering a great product at a great price as fast as possible - even that isn't enough. Good customer service involves acknowledging the sale, keeping the customer updated on the status, being available for questions and custom orders, and having your well packaged item delivered on time.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?
My most memorable experience was the first custom order. It was wonderful to be asked to make a custom item. After some nervousness about having it meet their expectations, it was great to hear it that it fit well and they were happy.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?
Although it is hard to distinguish yourself from so many jewelry sellers, Roxy's designs are unique and mostly specialize in earrings. Of course, beside jewelry SweetRoxs also sells knitted items. Lully's knitted items are sweet with the wrist warmers being a popular item.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?
Lully has been knitting for most of her life. She can follow a pattern or follow her own ideas to create a new item. After being frustrated at not finding jewelry that fits her personality, Roxy began learning to make jewelry. She has read instructions, watched videos, and experimented on friends and family. Being willing to try something new or just play with a new idea leads to what will bring you success.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?
We do not. Learning the craft from friends and family has been very rewarding.

What is your goal for the next year?
SweetRoxs' goal for 2009 is to reach out to more people interested in handmade items, while still being able to keep it personal and fun.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?
Slow sales are a motivation in themselves to find ways to reach customers. The time can be used to find more outlets or create new items.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business? SweetRoxs encourages re-occurring business by making items well and treating the customer even better. We've been fortunate to receive great feedback. Being a fairly new seller, it has been fun finding so many ways to reach new clients - online, charity auctions, word of mouth, even an ad on Roxy's car has gotten people asking about SweetRoxs.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?
My advice would be to make something that you really put your heart into. It will show in your work.

Thanks so much Susan for the interview, We love your cozy fingerless gloves!

Visit her store for more beautiful creations ranging from knitwear to jewelry to accessories, SweetRoxs.etsy.com