Successes and Challenges

Last year was my first full year in business and I am over the moon with the results. The wonderful response and feedback has been overwhelming to say the least, and I am so excited about the next 11 months. Thanks so much to everyone who purchased my jewellery and accessories. It's a thrill knowing that one of my vintage style cloches is on it's way to Paris this May with a lovely young lady who has planned this trip for several years and can't wait to see the Eiffel Tower. Or the gorgeous young bride-to-be who couldn't decide between two pairs of earrings for her wedding day, so bought them both. You have all been so amazing and I can't wait to see what the year brings--I am truly blessed!

Now, that's not to say that I didn't have some disappointments along the way. But, I'm trying to use each less than stellar experience as a lesson. And if I keep my business hat on when making decisions, and not making them from an emotional level, I think I'll be moving in the right direction. It's tough declining a show organizer's invitation to come back next year even though she and her team were fantastic and the venue was lovely. I remind myself that it's a business and I have to continue growing, gaining exposure and seeking new opportunities if I want to continue. 

Over the past twelve months I've worked hard at developing my own unique style of repurposed jewellery and accessories, and creating a brand that customers will remember and recognize. When I started applying to craft shows I had some very definite ideas about how I wanted to display my jewellery and accessories. Some of those ideas were great in theory, but didn't always work out, particularly at outdoor venues...so back to the drawing board. For the most part, I think I have my major displays and booth design worked out. The last few things that still need some tweaking are some outdoor venue displays and a display for my vintage style hats....lots of great ideas on Pinterest that I may be able to put into use. The great news is that customers are starting to recognize my jewellery and displays from previous shows they've attended, and are stopping by to see what's new and shop.

Getting to know who my customer is has been another huge lesson for me. Making business plans around marketing methods and sales venues that will reach them is key for me.  This will mean making changes to some of the venues I've been using, and working on some consignment and wholesale opportunities in local shops.

I'm tugging my business hat down over my ears (of course, it's a velvet cloche business hat) and getting down to work. I'm notorious for always wanting to accomplish far more than any one person ever could, so my goal this year is to scale down my to-do list (personal and business) to a realistic length....focusing on quality not quantity....celebrating the accomplishments and not constantly being discouraged by all of the things I have left to do. This will definitely be my biggest challenge this year!

Take care.....Marian  xo