I think I could write a book entitled "A Beginner's Guide to Craft Shows." I learned a great deal from this experience, and I am looking forward to what I can do next year! My work was received well by the people who stopped by my booth...but I have to admit, I cringed when some of them tried to barter the price (flea-market-style). I actually find that pricing a piece is harder than designing and making it...and to be honest, it's a fight to be paid the full amount of what a piece is really worth. So, when someone looks at the price tag and they either do an "eye-roll" as they set it back in place...or try to barter with me, I have to quickly do some self-talk so I don't start emitting steam from my ears. (I think this could be a whole blog topic in itself.)
With all of my 21 years in the world of customer service, I knew I had to listen to the customers and reach out in a way that would be different than all of the many talented jewelers out there. While I didn't "make it rich" at the five craft shows I attended, I am "rich" by the experience. I watched what people were drawn to, what they tried on, and what they said they were looking for in a piece of jewelry.
Out of my observations (and plenty of prayer), came my hammered silver Heart of the Family birthstone pendant. People like custom-made...they love their family...they love to feel special...and this pendant hits all of those characteristics to qualify for "just the perfect gift."
The heart is sculpted with 16 gauge sterling silver wire, the birthstones are 4mm bicone Swarovski crystals, and comes on an 18 inch sterling silver chain with a SS shepherd's hook clasp. The heart is prayerfully hammered by me, giving it a lot of character.
At first I was frustrated with how I could possibly get the Heart of the Family pendant listed on my Etsy page...until I figured out that I could list them individually by the number of birthstones that make up individual families. It works great...and now that I have one on its way to Alaska, I'm sure you can tell just how excited I am!
Family...something that means the world to me. When I look at this heart with the birthstones, it gives me a quick picture of each family. Some are extremely colorful...and each one is definitely unique.
Family...
a. A fundamental social group in society typically consisting of one or two parents and their children.
b. Two or more people who share goals and values, have long-term commitments to one another, and reside usually in the same dwelling place.
I love the second definition of the word "family." Recently, I viewed pictures submitted in a Family Photo Contest sponsored by Better Homes and Garden (which I don't recommend). I can tell you what a family is not...it is not one lonely bird sitting on a snow-covered branch, or a Christmas tree with presents waiting to be opened, or a Christmas tree that was set ablaze in the backyard, or even one cute baby sitting on a bench. It is all of (b.) and then some...long-term commitments to one another = unconditional love, and acceptance of our differences.
As we approach this Christmas season...a time of giving and loving...don't forget the importance of family! Don't count the number of gifts under the tree...the gift of family is ALL you need...trust me, you are truly "rich!"
Merry Christmas to you and your family,
Carole
