Featured Seller - Baubles, Bangles & Beans

What part of the world are you in?

I live in the northern part of the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, in a large town sandwiched between mountains and the seashore.

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means being courteous, being prompt with sending my jewelry, and taking pride in what I send.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

My very first customer was recovering from a life threatening illness, and yet she was so kind, generous and supportive to me. I will never forget her selflessness and encouragement. A lot can be accomplished with just a small act of kindness. I will never ever forget her.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

I 'm sure the other sellers who make coffee bean jewelry also love coffee, so we are all probably similar in that way. I use only Fair Trade coffee beans (several varieties), and make real down-to-earth styles. I'm very casual, and make earrings that I myself would be comfortable wearing. I absolutely love making these earrings...and I get to experience that wonderful coffee aroma the whole time I'm working!

Admin comment: We've never heard of coffee bean jewelry until now, but what a unique and interesting idea! We love coffee, we love jewelry! Who doesn't really?

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?

My family is wildly artistic (my husband is a writer/artist, my daughter is an award-winning fine artist, and my son is an award-winning photographer) and I just had no niche. I happened to mention one day that I was thinking that I'd like to make jewelry out of coffee beans, since I love coffee so much. The next day I came home from work and my family surprised me with a gift of earring findings, a bag of coffee beans, some beads and two "How To" books. In all honesty, and no matter how corny this may sound, it is my family that makes me successful. Without their love and support, nothing else would matter to me.

Admin comment: We love hearing stories of supportive friends and family, it creates a more positive and artistic environment for your skills and talent to bloom!

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

No, I have no formal training whatsoever.

What is your goal for the next year?

My hope for next year is that many, many people will be happily wearing earrings from Baubles, Bangles and Beans!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

My daughter is my best cheerleader. She's always encouraging me and is incredibly supportive. Plus, I happen to love the challenge of making earrings with coffee beans!

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?

I post new designs at least once a week, and try to send a little something extra with each sale.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering openingtheir own store of handmade items, what would it be?

I would advise a new vendor not to get discouraged, especially if they love what they are doing. Plus, take the opportunity to meet some of the many wonderful people in the Etsy community. Many of the artists are so supportive of each other that it just increases your confidence in what you are doing.

Admin comment: We found that too, the etsy community is chock full of fantasticlly supportive folks who are always willing to answer a question or offer advice. We love featuring talented etsy artists, in fact that is the reason we created this little blog!

We love Baubles, Bangles & Beans etsy shop, at the time of this post they have 74 coffee bean earrings for sale, that is quite the selection! Prices are very reasonable at $8 - $10 USD and what a unique gift idea for that woman you know who has to have the latest style!

**SPECIAL OFFER FOR "I MADE THAT" BLOG READERS

Buy 2 pairs of earrings and get 1 pair FREE - Use promo code: DECAF **

Check out Baubles, Bangles & Beans at www.baublesbanglesbeans.etsy.com