Featured Seller - twobadbananas

Your first name, and your store name?

My name is Cat, and my shop name is twobadbananas.etsy.com.

What part of the world are from?

I'm from York, a beautiful historic city in England.

What does customer service mean to you?

Well, I want anyone who buys anything from me to be as excited and happy about it as I am (which is pretty excited!). I want to be helpful and friendly throughout a transaction, and I want them to know how pleased it makes me that they like something I've made enough to spend money on it. I always add a handwritten thank you and a little extra something to my parcels.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Definitely Mary, who runs her own jewellery shop (heatbreakjewelry.etsy.com). I met her through etsy, purchased items from her, and her from me. She is so friendly and such fun to talk with, I had a great time preparing her order for her, and I was so thrilled when she left her feedback saying how much she loved her jewellery. She told me she changed her shirt as soon as the parcel arrived so she could wear my necklace, and that she cut the stickers off the parcel and saved them. Making Mary happy made me so happy, I was grinning all day!

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

When you read my listings I try to make my items as interesting and personable as I can. I'll tell you what music I was listening to, or what tv programme I had on in the background as I made each particular item, and even sometimes what snack I had in the middle of my crafty session! As for my fruit and vegetable characters, I've given them all names and personalities, a task I enjoyed a little bit too much, I think. I'm a geek at heart!

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

As a very strange child! I played with Sylvanian Families, but it worried me a lot that there wasn't really enough food to go round a village full of woodland creatures (as I said, strange child!). My Mum bought me fimo so I could make food for them and I never looked back. I took a break from creating anything at all whilst I was at University as my time was taken up with being in Pantomimes, running the Archaeology Society, oh, yeah, and my degree ;) Now I work full time in a shop, so I think that also helps me when it comes to knowing what designs will sell, and how to communicate with my customers.

What is your goal for the next year?

Next year? I'd like to be completely free of my student debt, and have saved up enough money to learn to drive. Then I can start going to craft shows and displaying there. As regards my etsy shop, it'd be nice to make 100 sales. That'd be a cool landmark :)

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

As I'm new to etsy so my sales haven't really taken off yet. I'm still excited when I can tell people have viewed my items! But I take great heart from real life reactions people have to my jewellery when I'm wearing it. It reassures me that there is a market for the things I make. I just remind myself that selling online is a different kettle of fish to selling in a shop, and that things will pick up for me.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

This is like my secondary hobby at the moment! Well, I'm being featured in this blog, and in a giveaway on another blog soon. I've made a facebook fanpage (tinyurl.com/twobadbananas) and when I hit 50 members I'm going to start running promotions just for my fans.

I've just started using twitter (twitter.com/twobadbananas) although I am wary of being a spammer so I'm pretty easygoing with it. I also have a blog (twobadbananas.blogspot.com), and a webpage (twobadbananas.com), both aimed at making me more recognisable.

I'm also in the process of running an ad on Craftcult, and I sell in a bricks and mortar shop, and am hoping to expand to one or two other shops soon. I've had business cards printed which I give out to people who I chat with when they admire my jewellery, which I try to wear nearly every day.

This is the hardest part for me, wearing jewellery I've made over things I own, as I'm a bit of a jewellery fiend! Also, I pop a card and a home-made twobadbananas badge in with all the goodies I send out to my customers, so hopefully they can help spread the word for me.

Lastly, I make my friends and family a lot of jewellery, because they promote for me without even knowing they are doing it half the time! I'm hoping that my excitingly decorated parcels, extra goodies and unusual designs, combined with my friendly attitude, will foster repeat sales for me.

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

Be prepared for a lot of hard work! I thought I went in prepared, and I am still shocked by how much of my free time promoting takes up. I think I spend more time online nowadays than I do creating jewellery, which is sad, but necessary. But it's worth it. It's an amazing feeling when someone buys something you've made. Go for it!:)

Do you have a current promotion or contest you'd like to share with our readers?

Yes! Readers of this blog who purchase any item from me are eligible for free postage when they mention "I Made That Blog" in the Notes to Seller box. Just convo me to sort it out.

Thank you Cat! Your shop is so cute and fun! We've chosen our favorite piece from your shop to showcase on our blog, the Babooshka, Babooshka Necklace, available for only $11 USD!

Please check out twobadbananas for other terrific cutesy finds to add to your accessory collection!

Featured Seller - PolishedTwo - Pottery Shard Jewelry & Whimsical Accessory Designs

What part of the world are you in?

I live in sunny Austin, Texas -- known as the Live Music Capital of the World!

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means creating a happy buyer experience. It means providing a well-crafted product and showing your appreciation for the customer's choice of your art.

It is often the little added touches like this that keep people coming back for more handmade items-- it feels good to buy them!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

I have several repeat customers that check back with me monthly and buy new items, but my most memorable recent customer is one that pretty much designs the jewelry herself. Its fun: she gives me the specifications, points me in the direction of the supplies to use, and tells me her ideas. She leaves the handiwork to me and I've made her lots of custom items this way. In fact, the best thing about it is that she really planted the seed of some new ideas for my designs through these special requests. I've ended up incorporating new materials into my jewelry based on some of her suggestions.

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

I'm not sure if it is my marketing, my packaging, or my customer service, but one thing I do hear from my customers is that I have the fastest turnaround time on shipping. People buying from Etsy shops often buy from several sellers at once. I've had customers say that my packages are the first to arrive. With hundreds of thousands of jewelry makers on Etsy, this is just one way that I've work hard to set myself apart.

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

I am mostly self-taught. I love to accessorize and was especially in love with the unique jewelry I could find at boutique stores, but I've been doing crafts my whole life so I always had the mentality of "I could make that!" When I moved to Austin about 10 years ago, I researched materials and tools and attempted to make my own jewelry. My first attempts were pretty elementary, but I took a basic class from a jewelry-making friend and my obsession began. I also subscribed to some beading magazines and picked up a few techniques along the way, but now I can generally figure things out on my own through trial and error.

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for next year is to incorporate more vintage elements.

I do a lot of estate sale shopping and sometimes incorporate little antique treasures into my work, but I'd like to do more of that in the future. I have a box I've been collecting and its full of all sorts of enameled metal flower brooches and pins from my estate sale hunts over the past several years. I'd like to add a new line to my collection that incorporates these flowers into one-of-a-kind necklaces.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

When sales are slow I have time to work on new designs, but it is also the best time to push harder on marketing. There are so many ways to market yourself and many methods are free--but they take an investment in time to really work. If sales are slow, I know that I always have more marketing to do. It is also a good time for me to assess my supplies and see what I need to order and stock up on before the next sales rush.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

The number one thing that I do is add something new to my Etsy shop every day. If I am home, I am listing new stuff! This works for several reasons: I get more visibility just by listing something and staying at the top of searches. Also, people start to recognize the "style" of your items and photography as they're shopping on Etsy, especially when the style is consistent. And previous customers come back to your shop and constantly see new things to buy.

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 say, "Do what you love!" You are going to invest a lot of time in trying to sell your craft, so make sure it is something you are ultimately passionate about.

Thank you Tracy for sharing your wonderful work with us and our readers. We agree, turnaround time is very important in this crafting business. Its tough completiting especially in jewelry making as there are many terrific and talented artists like yourself. We know this first hand from selling jewelry supplies in our etsy shop, one of the most frequent compliments we get is fast shipping/ turnaround. Getting the property to the customer quickly and safely makes for repeat customers, which you've already discovered in your own shop!

We love your use of colour and your nature inspired theme, especially with summer coming up! Please check out PolishedTwo Jewelry on their website located here: http://polishedtwo.etsy.com/

Featured Seller - Adagio Beadcrafters

What part of the world are you in?

Sunny Florida, USA

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means going above and beyond to insure my clients are pleased with their purchases. This includes everything from using quality components to create my designs to listing them for a fair price (both from my point of view AND the purchaser) to packaging them safely and securely and includes follow-up and beyond.

In short, customer service goes from beginning to end and must be a top priority in any successful business.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

During the Christmas Holiday 2008, a woman purchased a watch from me for her daughter who was away at college. As often happens when our children move away, this young lady had grown and the watch was too small for her. She e-mailed me about the first of the year and asked if I could make it larger and change the clasp. I'm in Florida. Her college was in New England. I completed these changes without charge and in so doing, not only pleased my new customer but her mother as well. Result? Not just one new loyal client but two. What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?Although I am relatively new to the jewelry business, I try to make my items unique and different. As my skills improve, so do my designs. When I look back at some of the original designs from my old etsy shop versus the more sophisticated items now available on my artfire site, I see a uniqueness that I hope will insure my niche in this market.

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

Through trial and error. Lots of error! Practice, practice, practice! I am mostly self-taught. Watching videos on You Tube, reading books and picking up tips from my beading buddy.

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for next year is to be continue to improve my skills, strengthen my customer base and increase my web presence.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Obsession! Beading is my obsession, my passion and my joy. When sales are slow, I keep hope alive that someone will browse into my shop and be drawn to my wares, appreciating their uniqueness and thereby validating my skills and rewarding my hopeful attitude.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

It's a combination of strong customer service and unique design. Making each customer feel as if she or he are your only client and making them happy will keep them coming back.

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

Persistence, persistence, persistence. There are going to be many frustrations at all levels. Don't give up! Patience and persistence WILL be rewarded if you hang in there!

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

Mention this blog article in the notes to seller and you will receive a 20% discount on any purchase!

Thank you so much for that awesome deal Heather from Adagio Beadcrafters! We really enjoyed your interview! We'd like to add that your excellent customer service as shown in your answer to your most memorable customer question will certainly make you a most memorable seller! Check out Heathers beautiful jewelry pieces via her online store, adagiobeadcrafters.artfire.com. Prices range from $15-$38 for her lovely creations.

Featured Seller - Japonicas

What part of the world are you in?

Beautiful Asia, Garden City - Singapore

What does customer service mean to you?

It means everything to me! I work towards providing a service that exceeds my customers' expectation :) Many of my customers are very touched by my sincerity and have became my very good friends and supporters.They are the reason I keep creating :)

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

There are too many to mention! I have met countless wonderful people who are heads over heels over my creations and keep coming back for more! We become such good friends that we even went out for drinks several times! :)

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

I set very high expectation for myself, my products' quality and presentation, as well as the customer service that I provide.I push and challenge myself to produce works that impress even myself. :) My passion is another reason that I have overwhelming ideas which set me creating new pieces all the time.I gathered that everything boils down to be able to do something that I truly enjoy. :)

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

I suppose that I am still far from being successful. Japonicas has only emerged 4 months ago and there is still a long and tough road ahead.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

Well, I have never attended any jewelry making classes. It just came naturally and I perfected the skills along the way.There is always room for improvement though, and many new interesting techniques to learn :)

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal is for Japonicas' faithful supporters to multiply in strength. Sales will be much stabilized with the recovering economy.I will have fixed bazaars and events to meet more people, stable online hit rates and orders as well as regular consignments and wholesales opportunities with boutiques.
A couple of wishful dreams; to have Japonicas in huge malls and to be able conduct jewelry making workshops in my home :)

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

When things look deem and spirit is low, my burning passion keeps it going :) The encouragement and support from my loved onesare just as important!

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

Well, be open to possibilities and conscious to opportunities. Try getting as much exposure as possible, even if it would mean venturing into unfamiliar grounds. You never know until you try :)
Always exceed your customers' expectations in terms of quality, presentation and service. They will remember you for sure :)

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

Know what you can do best, believe in it and keep the passion burning :)

Admin Comment: Thanks so much Jet for this great interview. We were really impressed by your beautiful, feminine pieces and we know your business will flourish over the next year. Passion and determination are key. You have to love what you do and it is clear you have found your calling!

Please check out Japonicas at http://japonicas.etsy.com as well as http://japonicas.com

Featured Seller - Works In Progress

What part of the world are you in?

I just recently moved to the Lake Norman area in North Carolina. I had spent the previous eleven years growing up in Maryland.
I miss it sometimes and I am still getting adjusted to my new home, but on those hard days I just look out the window at the beautiful lake and remind myself that this is a new beginning for me. Plus, the weather has been much nicer! ;)

What does customer service mean to you?

Making sure that you create a good product that your customers will enjoy and you do what you can to ensure that it all arrives safely and in a timely manner. Also that your items meet your customers' expectations based on what you wrote in the descriptions and then the accompanying photos. And if for some reason a customer is unsatisfied, you work with them to resolve any issues.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Someone bought a pair of my pearl cluster earrings and loved them! She left very sweet feedback and sent me a nice message saying how happy she was with her purchase. That kind of thing always makes you feel good about what you are doing! :) And since I am still starting out with my business, each sale is so important in building my brand and I am very happy with each one!

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

My youth. People are always surprised to find out that I have taken all of this on at age 18!

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

In school I was always a hard-working student, and good grades were very important to me. The discipline I learned from that help me now to manage my time and my business effectively. I have also always been a very observant person and my attention to detail definitely helps in my creations and my art.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I really loved my art classes in school and I have always enjoyed the creative aspects of projects. Mostly though I am self taught and I have learned a lot from my own research and not necessarily from a class. Right now I focus on my art photography, but in school all my classes were about drawing and painting. I did take a computer graphics course where I learned some editing skills that I continue to use today. And I use the lessons about composition from my drawing classes when I am taking photos. It’s important to be able to take what you have learned and apply it to new things and extend your lessons into real life.

What is your goal for the next year?

I would like to focus on expanding my enterprise and really start to make my mark on Etsy. I also hope to steadily increase sales and continue to create quality pieces and jewelry that I myself would like to wear. One big goal for me is to make the front page of Etsy; that would be a dream come true!




What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I just have to remember that especially right now in this economy people are not shopping as much, that this is true for a lot of sellers and it isn't just me and it doesn't mean I do not have a good product.


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

I use various social networking sites to help promote my shop and get my name out there. I often venture into Etsy chat too and give out my handmade business cards to the people I meet. I also wear jewelry I have made for myself out and about, so people can see my product. And then if anyone comments on them, just hand out a card! :)


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

It would have to be the need to be patient. There are so many sellers and shops out there in all the online venues that it is easy for yours to get lost among them. So you just have to stick with it and never quit promoting and working on your shop. Success doesn't happen overnight and we all need to remember that. Rome wasn't built in a day! ;) So you also need to make sure that you have adequate time to be able to devote to your business, otherwise it might get pushed aside in favor of more pressing matters.

Admin Comment: Wow! Kelsey you are wise beyond your years my dear. I wish I knew that I wanted to get into running my own business when I was in high school, it would have definately helped guide my choices for college. Remember to celebrate and never lose your creativity and artistic talent! Your designs are beautiful and we are so thrilled to have you as our youngest Featured Seller on "I MADE THAT!"

Please check out Kelseys shop, Works In Progress, located at http://worksinprogress.etsy.com for a beautiful selection of handmade jewelry pieces, as well as art prints.

Featured Seller - Seeds And Beads

What part of the world are you in?

The United States

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service, to me, means selling a quality product, and adjusting that product to the customer's desires, whether that be size, color,ect..


What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

A customer bought a pair of earrings from me for her daughters birthday. She asked me to address the package to her daughter because she loved getting mail, and she would be so excited to get a package addressed to her. I was happy to be apart of that surprise.

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

I think what sets me apart from other sellers are the techniques i use. My Floating Crystal Bracelet technique and my Russian Spiral Bracelet technique are seldom seen in the beading world. I believe a seller, especially in a popular field such as jewelry, needs something DIFFERENT, a spark that pulls a customer into your shop. Another thing that i think sets me apart are my photos. Crisp clear, detailed photos are important in being noticed in my field. The photo sells the product.

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

I owe everything i know to the fabulous teachers at my local beading shop, and the many many beading books i have recieved over the years.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I took a metal design class in high school. I have always been intrigued by glass jewelry, but when i discovered the potential of copper, silver and nickel, it expanded my interest in jewelry design. I have also taken numerous jewelry design classes at my local beading shop. I am always looking for more ways to be a student.

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for the next year has nothing to do with an amount of money. I want people to see my jewelry, and see the beauty that i see in my craft. I want to get my name out there, and let people know that jewelry makers are truly dedicated artists.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I am constantly keeping myself motivated. If sales are slow, then its time to start making items again! Of course i want to glue myself to my computer screen and watch for sales, but i pry myself away and remember why i am doing this, because of the craft, not the business aspect of it.

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

I make sure to include everyone in my sales. If i don't have a country listed, i ask them to email me! If someone needs a specific size, i make sure to offer that service. I'm also CONSTANTLY listing new items. The more i list, the more i get my name out there. Who would want to check back into a store that has the same items from a month ago? I try to make it exciting and new.

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

Take clear photos. Pick an interesting, clean background that will be consistent throughout your store, and stick with it. If you can imagine your items on the front page of a website, then you're doing something right.

Kait, owner of Seeds and Beads, is just the sweetest lady you will ever do business with. We loved her designs when we first saw them being posting in the etsy chat, but when we started gabbing back and forth, we really got a sense of her lovely personality. Her 100% positive customer feedback is no shocker and shes always going above and beyond for her customers.

Please check out her darling webshop located at http://seedsandbeads.etsy.com/

for more beautiful jewelry pieces like the one shown above.

SPECIAL PROMO FOR "I MADE THAT" Bloggers! Seeds And Beads is offering shipping for only $1 in her "Deals" section. All regular priced items (usally ship for $6) are now shipping for only $1.50!

Featured Seller - Celeste Lauren Designs

What part of the world are you in?
I live in Fort Mill, SC right outside of Charlotte, NC.

What does customer service mean to you?
I believe the thing that attracts customers to you initially is the great quality of work shown in your product. However, in order to retain these customers and gain new ones depends a great deal on customer service. This involves how responsive you are to requests, fast shipping, communication, and doing whatever it takes to make the customer happy. If I don’t offer something in my shop, I will always go above and beyond to get the materials I need to make exactly what the customer wants and I think people really appreciate that enough to make them come back.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?
Wow, I’ve had so many and met so many great people via Etsy. They are all memorable in some aspect but the most encouraging is when customers message me praising my designs and quality of work enough to want to carry it in their boutiques. Also, I get so excited every time I have a sale, not because its a sale and I get money, but because it feels so awesome and rewarding that someone else appreciates something that I’ve made with my own hands.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?
I think more than any other type of artist on Etsy, there are more jewelry designers and very talented ones at that, so its really competitive. I think that my designs are all such a variety of styles and full of color which attracts all types of people to them. I also try to take good pictures of my jewelry to make it standout. I love what I do and I think that shows in my work thus attracting people to my jewelry.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?
I’ve always been a creative, artsy person but choose to veer away from this in college and major in business thinking I would one day make more money and be happier. Of course I was completely wrong, and found myself longing to draw, paint and create again. So last year I decided I wanted to make a necklace for myself and I did. I enjoyed making it so much that I quickly became fascinated by beads and gemstones and I ended up teaching myself how to make earrings with a lot of trial and error. I’m self-taught and I am always learning as I go along. I can hardly picture what my life was like before I discovered my passion for jewelry making.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?
No, I’m self taught through lots of trial and error.

What is your goal for the next year?
My goal is to attract new customers, retain old customers and figure out the best way to do that. I’d also like to put even more time into my jewelry business. I have a day job and a puppy so balancing all 3 can be challenging at times but also very rewarding. I’ve realized that making jewelry is my true passion so I will take it one day at a time and remain positive for what the future holds.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?
I just keep designing new jewelry which is doing what I love. This keeps my mind off of other things. I try to stay positive because sales will come in time.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business? Most of my customers have heard of my jewelry through friends. I’ve also some done advertising on Facebook and Google. I recently donated some of my jewelry for a big charity fundraiser auction in Charlotte which likely helped get my name out there. If you love what you do, offer a great product, fast shipping and excellent customer service most people will return to your shop again.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?
Don't try to do everything at once because you can easily get overwhelmed. There is so much you will want to do but it will take time. Patience is key. Also, take great pictures of your product. I heard this when I first started and it really is true. My pictures weren’t that great in the beginning so I made sure to try to improve them and noticed a big increase in the views of items and sales once I did.

Celeste Lauren Designs, we fell in love with your store the moment we stumbled across it. We love the mix of colour and shapes of the gemstones used in her exquisite pieces. Luxurious and feminine, her pieces will have you dripping in sparkle and colour!
Our fav is posted above, the Lemon Quartz and Minty Green Chrysoprase Briolette Earrings.
Visit her online store and treat yourself to these celebrity style handmade masterpieces!

http://celestelaurendesigns.etsy.com/

Featured Seller - Silver River Jewelry

What part of the world are you in?

I am in the Ohio, in the United States.

What does customer service mean to you?

I think that along with a really good product, customer service is what will make or break your business and can make the difference between being really successful or not. This means keeping in contact with your customer throughout the process from confirming receipt of the order, when it will ship all the way through to your packaging etc.



What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

I have been blessed in that all of my customers have been wonderful! For me when a customer becomes a friend through the communication about an order, that is just so cool and I have met so many nice people because of this.
What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items? That's a tough one, there are so many talented people out there. My items are all well made, and I do stand behind my jewelry, I love what I do and I hope that I am developing a style that people will recognize as my own.

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

Most of it is self taught, with lots of trial and error (sometimes the best way to learn is to make mistakes, it makes you really think about how something is put together), a great deal of good advice and hands on learning from the wonderfully skilled people at the Summit County Lapidary club (they taught me and are still teaching me, the skills necessary to cut my own cabs) and one metal smithing class taught by an extremely talented lady named Rita. I also have been fortunate to be a member of several online selling venues where the other sellers have been more than generous with their knowledge.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

No

What is your goal for the next year?

To build my skills and really stretch my imagination with the metal smithing. Also to build my business and really start to focus on how to reach my target market.
What keeps you motivated when sales are slow? I love what I do. I am going to make it anyway, I can't NOT make things. So when I sales are slow I just keep doing what I love and building inventory lol!

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

To attract new business, I do some advertising campaigns on project wonderful and I also do some give aways and spend some time networking with several different groups. I also promote and do give aways for other artists. This might sound counter productive but it does bring lots of visitors to my blog and besides I like helping other artists out and its fun. Recurring business I hope is based on good customer service and an awesome product.

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

Make sure your photo's are good. Make them stand out so that people really want to take another look. Also be prepared to work really hard for a fairly long time before you are even close to successful. Building a business means not just being able to make beautiful things, it means learning how to be a photographer, a web designer, an accountant, a tax preparer, learning to design business card, logo's, online ads, networking with other people, etc. Its a huge amount of work but in the end there is a great deal of satisfaction knowing that this is YOUR business and you did it yourself.

Check out the lovely collection available by Silver River Jewelry online at silverriverjewelry.com. We had a hard time choosing our favorite piece to feature! Lovely work Sonja and best of luck to you in 2009!

Featured Seller - Carollai

What part of the world are you in?

i live in new york city.

What does customer service mean to you?

it means treating the customer as i would wish to be treated myself.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

post purchase, a customer said she had been 'stalking' my item which was why the 'times viewed' number was so high. sounds silly but i just thought that was so sweet because she loved the item that much. after purchasing the particular item, she asked me to make a matching pendant. i happily did! i like that i can create additional pieces for someone that truly loves my handmade designs
.
What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?

well, we all passionately make handcrafted items and love our craft... so, i'd have to say that we're just all really different, even in the similar types of things we sell on etsy. each person has their own taste, style and way of doing something and the entire shop face and product line represents that. for example, i love using swarovski crystals and semiprecious stones to create classic, elegant and at times, playful pieces. someone else's interpretation of classic, elegant and playful would likely be represented very differently.

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

my "life" skills have been grown and strengthened through life experiences, both good and bad. my jewelry making skills have been honed by practice, patience, continued research and trial and error.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

nope! but i'm learning more and more each day through experimentation and once in awhile, online tutorials.

What is your goal for the next year?

to keep enjoying what i'm doing. enjoy the creative process. enjoy making jewelry that i absolutely love. perhaps branch out to note cards and greeting cards, as my undergraduate studies were in graphic design. it would be absolutely awesome if during all that, i also continue making sales and building a stable business with steady income.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

my husband and sister who support me and remind me that there will be good times and tough times. i also try to get back to the process of creating as that brings me joy and reminds me that first and foremost, i do what i do because of the fulfillment in the process. usually when i get back to the basics, my heart doesn't fret so much over the sales. of course i still wish i could get numerous sales in a week and a client base that loves my work and tells all their friends to buy from me!

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

i've sent emails out to my friends asking them to pass along my shop info to their friends. i've also opened up a blog, http://mustardseedbycarollai.blogspot.com, where i share more of who i am as well as provided a giveaway. still figuring out how to 1. keep my clients and 2. get new ones. any suggestions? :D

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

be passionate about what you choose to do and don't get discouraged! it can be hard to get started and build up clientele (i'm still working on that too) but if you're doing something that you love, then there is still joy in the process of creating.

We just fell in love with carollai's stunning jewelry the moment we saw it! Our fav earrings are pictured at the top of this article, we encourage you to check out her shop featuring gorgeous gemstones, beautiful colour combinations and oodles of creativity! Thanks so much carollai for allowing us to feature your pieces. We know you will do awesome in 2009!
Visit carollai's shop located at http://carollai.etsy.com

Featured Seller - Sensual Designs

What part of the world are you in?

State of California, United States of America

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service is the most important aspect of business and goes hand in hand with sales. Customer service reflects how a seller conducts business with the customer or prospective customer. This plays a role in the feedback system as well as a means of gathering how satisfactory the quality of your product is and how satisfied the customer was with your service by means of communication, shipping time, and response to any questions or requests. In order to be successful and credible in business, customer service must be a number one priority with your customers.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

My most memorable experience with a customer was with my first sale ever made online. Not only did this specific individual show great enthusiasm to the product when received, but also became a repeat customer several times to follow. The feedback I got on about their rants and raves about my product is the one thing that still puts a smile on my face today. It keeps my creativity flowing and continues to challenge me in creating the next memorable product for someone else to treasure.

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

The one thing that always sets handmade product sellers apart from each other is their unique perception and skill on how they interpret their own creativity and inspiration. Not everyone has creative skills nor the same interpretation of what it is they are trying to accomplish. Therefore, every seller of the same category has something different to offer people.

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

I got to where I am today with my skills by maintaining my enthusiasm for the hobby, my continue inspiration, and always challenging myself to try something new. I never received any formal training on how to create what I do. I made my first pair of earrings when I was a teenager which is where I first became interested in jewelry making and beads. From there, I took on other hobbies and began to teach Scrapbooking where I was than offered to teach Jewelry Making. This is where my enthusiam grew and the aspect of doing different things continue.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

No.

What is your goal for the next year?

To continue teaching myself new skills in my current profession and expand my business to include additional creations of my other hobbies I enjoy. This I hope will reach a broader audience of buyers, but also share all of my creations with newer prospective buyers. I also plan on growing my business locally with additional promotion for my current and future web sites.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

The fascination I have for colors, beads, and the end product. When sales are slow I take that time as an opportunity to try new things and bring about different products that may help increase my business sales.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

Different products help to attract new clients. Offering a variety of items within your category will increase your chances of meeting a potentional clients needs. In order to encourage repeat business, this is the easy part. Once someone makes the first step to purchase something and are pleased with the quality and customer service they receive, chances are they will most likely come back. Another major factor in this are the clients who have already purchased. When pleased with the item, they will most likely tell others about your site and what you have to offer. This can also lead to increased business and help in attracting a larger customer base.
A major factor to consider when handling your customers is to always keep them informed of any changes or new products offered. My current site is actually a second site now to the original one I created for my business. Not only do I offer more now, but also ensure to notify previous customers of where I am next so they can continue to come back and always find me.

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

Never give up if business starts out slow and always continue to try new things and offer different products to meet the needs of more people rather than an isolated few. Secondly, promote your site by any means possible to ensure you draw new customers in. Most importantly, never settle for what you have to offer always look at opportunities to expand.

Thank you Sensual Designs for sharing your beautiful pieces with us! We know your shop will do amazing in 2009 and we hope to drive some traffic you way.
Check out Sensual Designs jewelry pieces at http://sensualdesigns.etsy.com/

Featured Seller - Blue Nostalgia

What part of the world are you in?

I live in Waverly, Ohio, USA

What does customer service mean to you?

Good customer service along with excellent people skills is everything when you are selling online. In my store, I am willing to accept refunds with no questions asked as long as the item is returned within 14 days of purchase. I also feel good communication is of the utmost importance. Buyers are not only buying your item, but your service, and I try to keep that in the forefront of my mind with every single sale.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?
When someone petitioned me to make them a rosary. I had never made a rosary before, and I love learning new techniques and making new items, so that made it a real pleasure.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?
I purchase 99% of my supplies and materials from other etsy sellers. It is very important for me to support other etsians.

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

Through trial and error for the most part. When I first decided to start selling my pieces, I did check out some online video tutorials, but I have found that I love to let my fingers do the "talking". Most times, I have no idea what I am going to make before I set down with my supplies. I have found some of my best pieces were made this way.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?
No

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal when opening was 4 sales a week by August, and at least 1 a day by Christmas. So far, on average, it has been 2 a week.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I just keep on keeping on. I continue to create and keep a positive attitude.
What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business? I think the best thing you can do to encourage re-occurring business is sell a quality product. I never list an item I don't LOVE, and I would never sell a piece I wouldn't wear myself.. My heart goes into every piece, and no amount of advertising will ever be as good as a happy customer. As far as attracting new business, I try and get my name out there by posting some pictures of my work on all of the social networking sites I belong to, as well as using twitter, flickr, and trying to list new items daily. I have also held blog giveaways, and I purchase online advertisement.

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

Do what you love, and love what you do. If you are passionate about what you are doing, it will shine through in your work.

Thanks so much Ashley @ BlueNostalgia for participating in our blog. We love your jewelry, and really hope this blog brings you some views and potential business!
Visit her website, Blue Nostalgia at http://www.BlueNostalgia.etsy.com, to view her other stunning creations.
We wish you all the best!

best!

$5 Deal Of The Week - Jewelry By Kathy

We stumbled upon this beautiful bracelet on etsy and wanted to share it with our readers.

It's a STEAL at only $5!

All of the pieces in Jewelry By Kathys etsy store are lovely and so reasonably priced.
We need deals during times like this, and we love promoting beautifully handcrafted items, and even more when they are a deal!

Check out her online jewelry store located at http://www.jewelrybykathy.etsy.com/

Featured Seller - Easy-On Jewelry

What part of the world are you in?

I live in upstate NY

What does customer service mean to you?

Being totally available to the customer, fast shipping and a well pakced item are all important.


What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

my first sale with my jewelry was an unexpected purchase from my friend. She started the ball rolling.

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

I make jewelry with easy on clasps . Alot of my jewelry is made on stretch cord yet the pieces are very elegant. I combine swarovski crystals together with pearls to make a lovely, easy to wear piece of jewelry.

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

Watching instructional online videos, asking questions in the forums and jewelry selling websites.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

No

What is your goal for the next year?

To keep making jewelery and perfecting my craft.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

exploring new selling venues and remembering it only takes one person to make a sale.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?

shipping items out quickly and having good comunication with the customers.

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

Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Sell your items on different venues and sites.

Please check out Easy-On Jewelry's online store, http://easyonjewelry.etsy.com

Featured Seller - Lorelie Kay Designs

What part of the world are you in?

I live in Omaha, Nebraska. I have lived here in the Midwest
all my life and love it here.


What does customer service mean to you?

The biggest thing customer service means to me is communication and honesty.
If you sell an honest item, and communicate effectively all the way through the sale, I think your customers will be happy.


What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

It is so hard to pin point one! I have had so many great customers
through the years. I guess one that stands out is a woman who asked me if I would make a custom paperweight with some of her Grandmothers items. Not knowing me at all, she sent me the only picture she had(the original!), an old watch, and a couple other momentos. She told me to do whatever I thought was best. I created a wonderful keepsake for her, and she was very happy with the final item. This sticks out in my mind, becasue it made me feel so wonderful that she trusted me with her most cherish memories of her Grandma.


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

That is also a very hard question! I guess I never really thought that anything set me apart. There are so many talented people out there. And we are all different. I guess the main thing would be just my mind. It is always thinking and creating. I just make what I love. I cannot just make what I or other people think will sell. If I had to say one thing, I guess I would say that I dance to my own drummer!


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

I have learned my art, just through trail and error. I have learned through LOTS of mistakes a few tears! I have also been in the retail business world for many years, and I think that has helped me with knowing how
to market my items.


Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I have taken a couple fine arts classes, but I am no realy great at the "formal" type thing. I just like to dive in and see what happens. I guess I feel creativity cannot be taught. It is something
you have to feel deep inside.


What is your goal for the next year?

My goal is to just keep doing what I am doing. Making what I love. Maybe trying
a few new things. I try not to get to hung up on setting specific goals I have to meet,like having a certain amount of sales, so many shows, etc. Then it starts feeling like a job, and I loose my focus of WHY I am doing it. Because I love it. If I were to say one goal for next year is the goal though, I would say the same one I have for every year. Just to be happy!


What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I just try not to think about it. I go in my art room, look at all the wonderful
things I have, just waiting to be created, and that motivates me every time.


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

I post on some of the boards and I have a website. I do a few shows and will give out business cards to anyone who will take one. I have also taken my things to several different small shops with success.

I try to package nicely and make the buying experience pleasant, so my customers will return. But mostly, I just make things and list them on Etsy. I am working on selling on my website too. I try to have the philosophy, "If you make it, they will come"!


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 best advise would be to make what you love, make it well, and be true to yourself! I honestly
think, if you offer a good product that you believe in, you will have success. Also, to remember, it takes time, and HARD work.
You have to keep your things fresh and offer great customer service. Answer emails, ship promptly and be professional. It really is a lot of work. But what a job!!

Thanks so much Lorelie! We love your jewelry, and are happy to show it off for you!

Please visit her etsy site to view more of her lovely pieces! http://loreliekaydesigns.etsy.com

Featured Seller - MuffinTopDesigns

What part of the world are you in?

I am in Toronto, Ontario, Canada!

What does customer service mean to you?

Customer service means treating people the way i would like to be treated. It also means making a high quality product at an affordable price!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

Someone purchased two sock monkeys for her children last Christmas. Making these perfect for her two little ones was a wonderful experience! She still sometimes sends me photos of them with their monkeys. It really makes me glad that they love them that much!

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

I would hope that my design sense keeps people coming back! while i like to offer classic pieces, i also enjoy going out on a creative limb and trying new things.

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

While i have always been an artsy person, it wasn't until early 2007 that i started beading and making jewelry. I'm mostly self-taught, but have taken a few classes in different techniques. I'm actually taking a beginner's metalsmithing class right now that i'm thoroughly enjoying!

Do you have any formal training in your craft?

I actually have my BA in Visual Art and my Masters in Art Therapy - and would LOVE to take a jewelry making certificate sometime in the future!

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal is to learn to balance my life! :) We're expecting our first baby in late April 2009! I'm excited to be a mother... and to see how motherhood will influence my designs. Sales-wise, I'm hoping to hit 1000 sales in my etsy shop.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

The fact that i have tons of beautiful stones and shining metal to work with! when sales are slow, it actually gives me time to work on new things - take the time to sketch and "test drive" new designs. I also spend more time looking for inspiration when things are slow - packing and shipping really takes up a lot of time!

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

I wish i could do more, actually. Working a full time job and creating on the side really doesn't leave much time for marketing. However, i'm hoping to draw up an "official" marketing plan one of these days and figure out how i can reach more people! In the meantime, i hope that good customer service and my sunny personality (lol) keep people coming back.

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

Be confident in your craft, and create something that you are proud to have out there in the world! Take creative risks, and let your love for what you do shine through.

Thanks so much MuffinTopDesigns! Congrats on your new little buddle of joy that will be joining your family in April! What an exciting time for you. We wish you all the best. Please check out Cylene's designs on her wepage http://muffintopdesigns.etsy.com/.

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

40’S/50’S/60’s…Age has no boundaries when it comes to Style and Color!

“Gold hoops and pearl stud earrings are what women my age wear.”
Have you ever said those words to someone, even though you were not convinced that it was true? I know I have. Well guess what ladies, we’re missing something. Age is not defined by anything other than how we feel within ourselves. Try one pair of lovely, colorful, sexy or fun earrings, and wait for the reactions. It will surprise you and lift your spirits when comments such as “fantastic earrings, I love the color” or “what’s different about you today, there’s real life in your eyes, what are you hiding?”

Take the challenge, and you’ll see the results from making small changes to your wardrobe and accessories. And a word of caution...once you try beautiful, colorful accessories, it may become addictive! Check out the many wonderful Jewelry Designers in the Etsy community for the Bling and Sparkle that will lift your spirits, add the pizzazz you’ve been looking for that suits your budget! There are no age boundaries when it comes to wearing something exciting that brings out your colorful and creative personality.

Go ahead and bring out that inner Spark~!!!

Cate