Featured Seller - Lake Erie Beach Glass

What part of the world are you in?
I live on the Southern Shore of Great Lake Erie on a small strip of Pennsylvania land between Cleveland, Ohio and Buffalo, New York USA.

What does customer service mean to you?
Customer service, to me, means offering a quality product and a memorable experience for the customer that will keep them coming back to you and bringing their friends a long, too!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?
I've had several but one particular customer sticks out in my mind. It was a custom order gift for her daughter and she was undecided on what to have made. She had seen a wire wrapped pendant in my shop and another piece with handmade chain. We worked together on the piece and ended up mutually creating the perfect gift for her daughter. They both loved it and still contact me to remind me! I love to hear from my customers!

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

The sea glass community is large and vast but very close! We all seem to know each other well. We learn from each other and share ideas about customer service, quality standards, and more. So, I would say that I am similar to my commrades. I do put my entire self into my pieces and try to be artistically different. It is very important to me to have made a product that is going to last and my customer is going to be happy. I stand behind my products.

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

I am mostly a self taught artist but have received help from my other artistic friends and have participated in workshops for metalsmithing in my local and regional area. Drilling glass was learned by trial and error. I can't even count how many pieces of sea glass I've broken over the years! I laugh and then cry!

What is your goal for the next year?

We are currently working on self publishing a book on the history of sea beach glass that is relevant to our area. The book will contain chapters on ship wrecks in the Lake as well as what industry specifically is responsible for delivering the glass that we find. We have including an extensive section on pattern identification, pottery, and maker's marks. There will be a spectrum color chart for easy identification and information about specific beaches. This has been a long term project and we are super exciting to be releasing the book this year at the 2009 North American Sea Glass festival in Erie, Pa!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

I go to the beach with my family and beachcomb! The experiences we share at the beach are always motivating and memorable!

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

I am always looking to expand my website pressence by using social networking platforms like Facebook,Twitter and my own blog. I occassionally will offer sales or shipping discounts in my shop and during team promotions or team give aways as well as making sure I include something special for each of my returning 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?

Do it! Do it for yourself! If you have a craft that you can share, there is a market for it. It won't be easy and sometimes it can be down right frustrating but like the tides the business cycle will ebb and flow. There is such a large community of support with in the handmade community and you will make many friends who will help you a long in your venture. The handmade community wants you to succeed. You will not be a lone and you will be a happier person for doing it!

Do you have a special offer or promotion for our readers?

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

FREE SHIPPING of your purchase when this article is mentioned in the notes to seller section at store checkout!

Check out other stunning designs beach glass creations at Lake Erie Beach Glass! We love the smooth yet unique shapes of glass used in these earrings, necklaces and bracelets. These pieces would be a nice choice for a bride and her bridesmaids.

The piece featured in this post is entitled: Lake Erie Beach GREEN BUCKS HI ROLLER Genuine Sea Glass Necklace Set by Lebg, and is available for $100 USD for the set here.

Featured Seller - Jewelry by Lorelei Eurto

What part of the world are you in?

Upstate NY, USA

What does customer service mean to you?

EVERYTHING! I treat my customers exactly how I would want to be treated when buying handmade items. Showing pride in my work, concentrating on packaging, sending confirmation emails, and leaving positive feedback for my customers- happens for every single sale.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

A pivotal point in my Etsy career was when I sold a necklace to a woman in Spain. It never made it to her. I made another and sent it. The second necklace never made it to her. The second necklace came back to me. The first one is sitting in customs somewhere. This directly resulted in my decision to ship Registered mail for every international order!

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

I believe that photographs play a large role in the sale of my jewelry. I try my very best to photograph the piece of jewelry in a way that is aesthetically pleasing to the eye. That first photo is the one that pulls the buyer in to begin with.I also enjoy creating a bond or relationship with my customers, and this in turn, keeps them coming back for more. My jewelry is really fun and the shopping experience is easy-going!

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

I learned a lot by shopping around on Etsy. I love buying from fellow Etsians, I get a sense of how they do business, what I like and dislike from each sale, and I've taken pointers from these transactions. I have also been doing this for about 2 years, so I've had quite a bit of experience. Most of which is completely 100% positive!

What is your goal for the next year?

I'd like to get my own website up and running smoothly by next year. I'd also like to figure out how to have a nice online gallery of my sold work. Selling on Etsy is my hobby and most of my earnings go back into Etsy, or buying supplies. As long as I can keep selling, I'm happy!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Luckily, I'm part of a pretty amazing online beading community. Reading their blogs, and keeping up on what they're doing keeps me motivated! There is an amazing amount of talent out there, and they never cease to inspire me!

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

Sometimes I offer specials in my shop, or send coupons for 20% off of their next purchase. Seems to work like a charm so far!

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

Invest in a great camera! Online shopping relies heavily on decent photographs. Since the shopper can't touch, and feel the piece they are purchasing, you want to provide them with really great, bright, and clear photographs so that they know what they're getting. That visual is the next best thing next to touch!

SPECIAL PROMO FOR 'I MADE THAT" BLOG READERS - Enter the code I MADE THAT into the notes to seller and I will give 20% off of one item in my shop. Wait for a revised invoice before paying!

Great promo offer for our readers Lorelei! We love being able to share not only talented artisans but great deals with our readers!
You've had some great success over the last two years with well over 500 sales in your shop! We can see why, lovely choice of colors, shapes, and textures that are pleasing to the eye.

Check out Lorelei's online store, Jewelry by Lorelei Eurto, and don't forget that 20% off special promo!

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

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 - 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 - 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!

Featured Seller - Blue Scarab Jewelry

What part of the world are you in?

I am in Franklin, IN, near Indianapolis

What does customer service mean to you?

Everything! I would not be in business without my customers, so I make it a priority to give them a wonderful buying experience from start to finish.



What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

It would have to be this super-sweet gal that lives here locally to me. She admitted that she is "Addicted" to my shop, and whenever she has some extra cash, she pops in and purchases a new piece(or two!) of jewelry. She always asks for extra business cards to hand out for me. That is the greatest compliment for a customer to be so into your work that she wants to help get the word out!

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

I pour my heart into the pieces I make, and I do think it reflects in my work. Plus I believe that Quality craftsmanship and Customer Service are all part of the package, so I thrive on giving my customers a fabulous experience from the moment they step "eyes" into my shop. I also offer a "Lifetime Guarantee" on my work, so if anything were to happen to their jewelry, they can always send it back and I'll fix it!

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

Online tutorials, crafting forums,20and over 10 years of tweaking and perfecting! A great thing about making jewelry is that there are endless techniques and processes, so I am constantly learning new things, which I love.
Do you have any formal training in your craft?
Nope, unless you count online tutorials lol:)

What is your goal for the next year?

My goal for 2009 is to take my business more seriously and work on keeping a consistent Style & Image. I want to be one of the shops where you just see one of my item photo's and say "Oh, that's Blue Scarab!" If I want to be taken professionally, I have to get it together professionally.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

Creating new pieces always keeps me motivated and hopeful. That and perusing the other fabulous Etsy shops that are still doing well in tough times keeps me going.

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

I am walking advertisement for my jewelry-I NEVER leave the house without a couple pieces on, and people always ask where I got it from. I have business cards handy and whip them out like crazy! And I always put discount coupons in with my orders to encourage repeat business. I also like to include something else small I've made, usually a stamped bookmark or a card, just to say "thank you."

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

One thing?! Always believe in yourself and stay strong. Success will not happen overnight, but don't let that discourage you. Keep pushing!

Thanks Blue Scarab Jewelry for the fantastic interview! We love your exquisite wire wrapping and stunning gemstones! Each piece is interesting to look at, and very unique! We wish you all the luck with your sales this year, we know you will do awesome!
Check out Blue Scarab's official website at http://bluescarabjewelry.com, and to view more pieces like the one you see above, visit their online shop, http://ambersjewelry.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 - Bflirty Jewelry

What does customer service mean to you?

Having your customer feel special when they open their package. I have had many customers write to tell me they felt like it was their birthday when they received their jewelery. I love that!

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?

I was on the Train through central Australia showing a lovely lady some of my designs to pass the time. She had stated that she detested pearls as they were old fashioned, boring and reminded her too much of grannies. We arrived at our destination, exchanged phone numbers and went our seperate ways. The next day I get a call from her asking to buy a version of my Willow Necklace I had shown her (in my etsy shop) A lovely necklace that is chock full of pearls the one gem that she hated!!

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

It was beaten into me! Actually trial and error is closer to the truth.

A few years ago I had an intensive 1 on 1 program with a Master Goldsmith while living in Thailand and since then I have also been attending classes facilitated by an amazing local jeweler.
I also attended art school for my high school years, and then received a full scholarship from Heritage Canada to study Aboriginal Arts in the NAPAT Program (National Aboriginal Professional Artists Training) in British Columbia. I have mostly been interested in and studied costume design during many of these years but realized later on that its the accessories that I am in love with!

What is your goal for the next year?

To improve on the previous year!

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?

9 times out of 10 if sales are slow its my own fault. Knowing that a little bit of effort and the fact I can always do much better than before is my motivation.

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

I wrap each item in tissue add a personalized sticker and tuck it into an organza gift bag. I also always send a personalized thank you note with each purchase. This makes the customer feel special and it shows as I get alot of new customers who tell me their friend raved about me and they just had to check my shop out.
With returning customers I will randomly tuck a little treat into their packages. Sometimes a simple sweet pair of earrings, or a silver polishing cloth.

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

Not everyone is going to love your product, Don't sweat it.

Please visit Bflirty Jewelry's website for a full selection of products. All beautiful pieces in this shop. We can see why they have done so well!
http://bflirtyjewelry.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 - Gastu

What part of the world are you in?
I'm in Iceland.

What does customer service mean to you?
Customer service is one of the most important thing if you want to be good seller. It's all about happy customer, and that's in priority for me to make them happy. Than you will also find out that more and more people are buying from you just because of what they heard from their friends ..

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?
I've just started Etsy business, but I've being running leather craft storein Reykjavík cityfor about year now and I have few memorable customers.
For example one that was sadly quite drunk (I'm in downtown) and he hadhis backpackwith him,all of a sudden he had emptied the bag and showedme purse that he had in the bottom. He told me to keep it because it wasso beautiful that I had to sew one like that my self! I told him that I wasn'ta "copycat" and than he mentioned that I shouldn't act like I was "inventingthe wheel" in the handbag business.....Luckily he haven't been at my storesince that day.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?
All or most of my items includes fish skin leather, that is very unique leatherthat is made here in Iceland.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?
It took few years until I was satisfied. I have been learning through theInternet and with books. Today I run courses sewing leather handbags.And in the last months about 130 women have already learned how to sewtheir very own bag.

Do you have any formal training in your craft?
No - not yet. I learned building engineering, but decided not to work asengineering when I finished. I think I have found what I like to day in myday job - and as my hobby...

What is your goal for the next year?
I am hoping that my design only (with great help from Etsy) can be my onlyday job. Now I have to put all my hours in showing the world how great thefish skin is.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?
That my hearts are racing.. My family and friends.Then I also use the time to make treasury or promoting in the Forums,and they motivate me by telling me what they feel about my products.

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage repeat business?
I send personal message(convo) to all my customers, i also sendhandwrittenthank you note sometimes with more than one business cardalong. I have decided to send gifts along with some of the orders. Whowill get it is just decided by what mood I'm in that minute..Giving doesalways makes me feel so good!
I spend all my hours talking about Gastu and Etsy, I show it off on my Facebook profile, and than I have sent letter to all the media here inIceland hoping that they are interested.

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

You have to do what you feel like, don't hesitate if you think that's the right thing to do.I would say jump for it and welcome aboard.
**We were looking through Gastu's store and we noticed a similarity in the items we clicked on,the shipping was $0! We love little perks like free shipping!
Thanks so much for taking the time to talk to us!
Visit GASTU at http://gastu.etsy.com/!

Featured Seller - Wild Rose Jewels

What part of the world are you from?
I am living in Red Deer Alberta, originally from Halifax Nova Scotia.

What does customer service mean to you?
Customer service is seeing a need and meeting it, making sure people walk away feeling happy with their experience.

What is your most memorable experience with a customer?
My most memorable experience with a customer on Etsy would have to be getting my first sale! I've only had one so far, so not too much to draw from in this area. But it sure made me feel great to know that someone else liked my work enough to spend money on it.

What sets you apart from other sellers who are selling similar items?
I think what sets my jewelery apart is that it is not trendy, you could wear it next week, next year, or ten years from now and still feel good about it. I'm all about classic style.

How did you learn the skills that make you successful today?
Do you have any formal training in your craft?
I have no formal training in jewelery making whatsoever, it's just something I've been playing around with.

What is your goal for the next year?
My goals for next year are to continue to create, to improve my shop, promote, promote, promote, and increase sales.

What keeps you motivated when sales are slow?
I stay motivated when sales are slow because I truly enjoy what I'm doing. I didn't start making jewelery to make my fortune, it just makes me happy to use my hands to make something beautiful. I enjoy the process. However, sales would be nice . . .

What do you do to attract new clients and encourage re-occurring business?
To encourage sales, I'm just trying to get myself out there, be seen. Alot of posting in the Etsy forums, Facebook, not to mention telling everyone I know.

If you could share one piece of advice with someone who is considering opening their own store of handmade items, what would it be?
To anyone wanting to start selling their own handmade items, I would say, just go ahead and do it! Jump right in. You will learn alot on the way, I'm learning new things everyday. That's half the fun.


Check out Wild Rose Jewels on their website www.wildrosejewels.etsy.com

Beautiful pieces Krista! Thanks for being a part of our blog. We wish you many sales in 2009 :)