Setting up shop!

Starting an Etsy shop was a process (for me) that involved a lot of research before actually doing it. I had to research jewelry for sale...what's selling...who's selling it...see if my designs fit, and decide if I thought they might sell. I also had to look at shop policies and procedures, and decide how to set up my own...then write the policies. Then, I had to build up an inventory for sale...a task, as I'd only made pieces for special individuals prior to this, so only made them when I wanted to give a gift to someone, or when I was experimenting with a new design/skill. I spent a tremendous amount of time on the computer conducting research, and creating new pieces.
The Etsy site is phenomenal...particularly for sellers. They have a HUGE selection of articles to read that give tips on 'how to' Etsy for new and established sellers. I haven't even begun to read them all, but made a nice dent.

Eventually, I'd like to have enough inventory to do craft shows. So, I attended a couple of different types of shows (one was a juried art show, while the others were garden variety craft shows), in order to see what folks were selling, and the prices they were asking. Once again, I was online looking at different craft show sites so I'd know what the process was for participation in them. I might be ready to do craft shows sometime in the Spring.


Throughout all this, I also had to research photography...in particular, photographing jewelry...ugh!! I'd never done photography of this type before, and have found it to be quite a challenge. My first attempts were done inside without a light box, or tripod. I can't tell you how many photos I deleted because they were shaky from not using a tripod. Lighting? Good grief!! Knowing how to use all the features on my digital camera? *groans* It's a learning process, and I'm still inside that learning curve.

Then, I had to consider marketing. How to get my 'product' out there to the public. My youngest son has had some great ideas, and I've incorporated many of them...this blog for one...social networking sites for another...business cards...promotions...the list could go on.
I'm learning. I'm doing it. I'll continue to learn, and to do it!


Am I glad I did it? You betcha!