(Use a QR scanner from the app store on your smartphone to scan the pic below and it will take you directly to the story. If you do not have a smartphone, you can read it on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JewelrybyLaLa .)
Monday, June 30, 2014
The Emory Collection...
My new collection is an homage to my great, great, grandfather, Emory. The story behind it is meant to inspire the person wearing each piece. I hope you will take the time to read the story...
(Use a QR scanner from the app store on your smartphone to scan the pic below and it will take you directly to the story. If you do not have a smartphone, you can read it on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JewelrybyLaLa .)
(Use a QR scanner from the app store on your smartphone to scan the pic below and it will take you directly to the story. If you do not have a smartphone, you can read it on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/JewelrybyLaLa .)
Friday, June 6, 2014
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
The Customer is Always Right...
(Foreword: This blog is about stretching myself and sometimes baring my soul. In that vein, I have been working on this post since the end of May. I vacillated between making it a seemingly light-hearted list of do's and don'ts for patrons or putting it all out there at the risk of be called "whiney". I'm letting you know right now, I decided to "put it all out there". There is a chance I won't make any new friends with this post; while my intent is never to alienate, I'm at peace with it if it happens because this post is straight from my heart.)
I've heard this saying many times (the customer is always right); I've even uttered it while working in a retail setting. However, I've come to understand that this phrase is not necessarily true.
While preparing to do shows, I read many, many articles about vendor etiquette...be kind, don't chew gum, don't eat or drink in front of customers, don't steal ideas for products from other vendors, and so on. Tonight, I'm going to offer some suggestions for patrons...
It never ceases to amaze me the number of times I greet a customer walking into my booth and they absolutely ignore me...no smile, no nod, no greeting, not even a grunt. Now I realize we all have less than stellar days or sometimes get lost in our thoughts, but, Friends, when you walk into a booth and the vendor acknowledges you, at the very least smile at them. Saying "Hi" or "Hello" is even better. Most likely, the vendor has spent a significant amount of time to create a pleasant shopping experience for you, so please be kind to them. You never know when your smile will make someone's day!
Next, it's necessary for shoppers to understand that a vendor doesn't just decide to go to a show one day and then set up the next. There are weeks, even months that go into preparing for a show. Much blood, sweat, and tears (both figuratively and literally) are spent to create items to present to the world. Vendors put their heart and soul into their work; it is purposeful. If something is out for you to see, the artist meant it to be that way. Now I understand that we are all different and have different tastes; other artists understand that, too. Some items may not be to your liking or taste...that's not a problem. Every artist cannot cater to every person. The problem arises when a patron decides that they know how the artist should or could have done something to a piece and says so. "Well, you know, you should have...." or "If it were me, I would have...." or "I don't like that (blank) there." While there is nothing inherently wrong about having those opinions, everyone is entitled to have them, it is not exactly good taste to actually say those things to a vendor. Remember, their art is purposeful; if they have put it out for you to see, there is a reason it is that way. Your job as a patron is to appreciate it for what it is, whether or not it is your taste. There are cases where you might actually be interested in something, but would like it tweaked a bit so it suits you a tad more closely. Some artists will be open to working with you, BUT it is all about the way you present your thoughts. An appropriate way may be to say, "You know, I really like these; however, would it be possible for you to make me a pair without this (specific color/component/etc) in it?" Maybe then add a reason (if appropriate) like "(blank) doesn't look great with my skin tone" or "I think I'm too short to wear earrings this long." NOT, "I don't like this thing here. Can you make this piece without this thing?" This may seem like quibbling over semantics, but, remember, the artist has put a little piece of their heart and soul into this piece, (even a small piece) and they have presented it as is for a reason. Your wording can be the difference between a vendor willingly taking a custom order from you with a happy heart or gritting their teeth at an insult and dealing with you just to make the sale. Of which scenario would you rather be a part?
This next suggestion is similar to the previous one as it has to do with respecting the artist's work. At almost every show, I witness patrons snapping pictures of items they see in various booths. It is frustrating for a vendor to sit and watch a patron whip out their camera/phone/ipad and snap photos of particular work. Please do NOT photograph an artist's work without asking for permission. The work that is presented to you is the intellectual property of the artist and is NOT there for you to photograph, duplicate, and/or sell. Please be respectful of the time, effort, heart, and soul that artists put into their work.
This last thought is closely related to the previous two...hmmm...interesting how they all intertwine and seem to come back to respecting other people. There is a phrase that may at first seem utterly innocuous; however, with a second look, I hope you will understand that it is NOT innocent; but, instead, frustrating, if not offensive to artists. If I had a nickel for every time I've heard it, I could take the rest of the year off (Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration, but you get my drift.) "What phrase?" you ask. The phrase, "Oh, I could make this!" Yes, I understand that many times this phrase is said innocently to your friend as you're perusing a booth, and is most times not accompanied by follow-through. However, I am asking you to shift your thinking and really try to understand the ramifications of this phrase. A vendor spends time researching, designing, and creating this art that is often cavalierly dismissed by this phrase. A part of their heart and soul is put into this work. Often, there is a story behind it which creates an indelible memory in their mind. When a patron says, "Oh, I could make this!", it is as if all that heart, soul, and time doesn't count. It says to the vendor that you are fine stealing all of that from them. Maybe stealing seems like a harsh word, but I assert that it really isn't. When you duplicate something you have seen somewhere (without permission), it is theft. It is the same as walking into a department store, picking up a piece of merchandise, and walking out without paying. When you utter the phrase in question, it gives the appearance that you are okay with theft...are you? Is it okay to take an idea developed and created by another and duplicate it for your personal gain? I maintain that it is not. Pause for a moment and think about how those words might make an artist feel. The next time you're walking through a booth in a craft fair or art show, please think about what you say and do.
I'll end on that note...pretty sure I've given you enough to think about. Please remember that it all comes down to respect.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
I've heard this saying many times (the customer is always right); I've even uttered it while working in a retail setting. However, I've come to understand that this phrase is not necessarily true.
While preparing to do shows, I read many, many articles about vendor etiquette...be kind, don't chew gum, don't eat or drink in front of customers, don't steal ideas for products from other vendors, and so on. Tonight, I'm going to offer some suggestions for patrons...
It never ceases to amaze me the number of times I greet a customer walking into my booth and they absolutely ignore me...no smile, no nod, no greeting, not even a grunt. Now I realize we all have less than stellar days or sometimes get lost in our thoughts, but, Friends, when you walk into a booth and the vendor acknowledges you, at the very least smile at them. Saying "Hi" or "Hello" is even better. Most likely, the vendor has spent a significant amount of time to create a pleasant shopping experience for you, so please be kind to them. You never know when your smile will make someone's day!
Next, it's necessary for shoppers to understand that a vendor doesn't just decide to go to a show one day and then set up the next. There are weeks, even months that go into preparing for a show. Much blood, sweat, and tears (both figuratively and literally) are spent to create items to present to the world. Vendors put their heart and soul into their work; it is purposeful. If something is out for you to see, the artist meant it to be that way. Now I understand that we are all different and have different tastes; other artists understand that, too. Some items may not be to your liking or taste...that's not a problem. Every artist cannot cater to every person. The problem arises when a patron decides that they know how the artist should or could have done something to a piece and says so. "Well, you know, you should have...." or "If it were me, I would have...." or "I don't like that (blank) there." While there is nothing inherently wrong about having those opinions, everyone is entitled to have them, it is not exactly good taste to actually say those things to a vendor. Remember, their art is purposeful; if they have put it out for you to see, there is a reason it is that way. Your job as a patron is to appreciate it for what it is, whether or not it is your taste. There are cases where you might actually be interested in something, but would like it tweaked a bit so it suits you a tad more closely. Some artists will be open to working with you, BUT it is all about the way you present your thoughts. An appropriate way may be to say, "You know, I really like these; however, would it be possible for you to make me a pair without this (specific color/component/etc) in it?" Maybe then add a reason (if appropriate) like "(blank) doesn't look great with my skin tone" or "I think I'm too short to wear earrings this long." NOT, "I don't like this thing here. Can you make this piece without this thing?" This may seem like quibbling over semantics, but, remember, the artist has put a little piece of their heart and soul into this piece, (even a small piece) and they have presented it as is for a reason. Your wording can be the difference between a vendor willingly taking a custom order from you with a happy heart or gritting their teeth at an insult and dealing with you just to make the sale. Of which scenario would you rather be a part?
This next suggestion is similar to the previous one as it has to do with respecting the artist's work. At almost every show, I witness patrons snapping pictures of items they see in various booths. It is frustrating for a vendor to sit and watch a patron whip out their camera/phone/ipad and snap photos of particular work. Please do NOT photograph an artist's work without asking for permission. The work that is presented to you is the intellectual property of the artist and is NOT there for you to photograph, duplicate, and/or sell. Please be respectful of the time, effort, heart, and soul that artists put into their work.
This last thought is closely related to the previous two...hmmm...interesting how they all intertwine and seem to come back to respecting other people. There is a phrase that may at first seem utterly innocuous; however, with a second look, I hope you will understand that it is NOT innocent; but, instead, frustrating, if not offensive to artists. If I had a nickel for every time I've heard it, I could take the rest of the year off (Okay, maybe that's an exaggeration, but you get my drift.) "What phrase?" you ask. The phrase, "Oh, I could make this!" Yes, I understand that many times this phrase is said innocently to your friend as you're perusing a booth, and is most times not accompanied by follow-through. However, I am asking you to shift your thinking and really try to understand the ramifications of this phrase. A vendor spends time researching, designing, and creating this art that is often cavalierly dismissed by this phrase. A part of their heart and soul is put into this work. Often, there is a story behind it which creates an indelible memory in their mind. When a patron says, "Oh, I could make this!", it is as if all that heart, soul, and time doesn't count. It says to the vendor that you are fine stealing all of that from them. Maybe stealing seems like a harsh word, but I assert that it really isn't. When you duplicate something you have seen somewhere (without permission), it is theft. It is the same as walking into a department store, picking up a piece of merchandise, and walking out without paying. When you utter the phrase in question, it gives the appearance that you are okay with theft...are you? Is it okay to take an idea developed and created by another and duplicate it for your personal gain? I maintain that it is not. Pause for a moment and think about how those words might make an artist feel. The next time you're walking through a booth in a craft fair or art show, please think about what you say and do.
I'll end on that note...pretty sure I've given you enough to think about. Please remember that it all comes down to respect.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Fall 2013 Show Schedule
Here is my show schedule for the Fall...find the one nearest you and come say HI!
September 28 American Sewing Guild Sew Chic Fashion Show Hess Club, Houston
October 5 9-6 Junk Hippy Roadshow Oklahoma State Fairgrounds, Oklahoma City, OK
October 18-19 Petticoats on the Prairie Mitchell County Fairgrounds, Colorado City, TX
November 1-2 Rusted Gingham Barn Sale JB Wells Show Barn,
Gonzales, TX
November 16 Junk Hippy Roadshow Waco, TX
Hope to see you there!
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Fear...
Fear is a powerful emotion. It can keep one from attaining one's goals or dreams and even obliterate relationships. Unfortunately, as an artist, I am well acquainted with fear...it frequently rears its ugly head and mocks me. As a Believer in Christ, I am told NOT to fear, but to trust God. Obviously, I'm not very good at it, but I am working on it each and every day.
"About what on earth do you have to be afraid?", you might ask, "You are living your dream each day by being able to do what you love and were created to do." Well...to name a few...failure, not being good enough, people not liking or appreciating my work, my jewelry not selling, having my work stolen (as in, replicated) by others, and success ( yes, success---not a typo).
Failure is always looming over my head. I quit a fairly decent paying career to chase this dream...what if I don't succeed? What if I'm always "just on the verge" of making it? Or what if I never even get to the verge? What if the money dries up and I can't afford to chase this dream anymore? Failure is a significant specter; one that I must beat down daily. I remind myself that "All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28 KJV) I believe creating jewelry is a purpose from God, so I must believe that it will work out according to His plan.
As an artist, I go through peaks and valleys. Sometimes the ideas just pour from my mind; sometimes..."I got nothin'". Even when the ideas come, that old
phantom, fear, sometimes appears and tells me that those ideas stink. Or maybe that others will think they stink and that I might as well give up because I'm not good enough anyway. Granted, sometimes, my ideas do stink and some are always better than others. However, that's to be expected, and I would do well to remember that. At times like these, it's hard to not feel discouraged. However, I just remind myself to look up and know that it will all work out in the end.
Next, I have grown to realize, that not everyone will like my work; I'm okay with that. In fact, I don't want to make "jewelry for everyone", I want to make jewelry that is true to who I am (see previous blog post), so that when someone sees it, even someone who wouldn't necessarily wear it, they will say, "Oh, that looks like something LaLa would make!" However, from time to time, the thought enters my head that NO ONE will like or appreciate my jewelry. These thoughts are usually concurrent with the previous ones of not being good enough. When these thoughts arise, I tell myself to push through. That what I am doing was destined by God, so someone, somewhere, will appreciate my work. My sweet husband always says, "There is an owner for each piece you make." I thank God for bringing him to me to remind me of that.
Going hand in hand with the previous two fears, is the one that my work won't sell. What if I put my heart and soul into all these pieces and they sit here for the rest of my life without being purchased? What then? Was it all just a huge waste of time? The answer to that is, of course, no. I have been blessed with opportunities to meet and make new friends because of this calling. I have also
been given opportunities to talk about Christ and what he has done for me. I
want to be clear to those I meet that any talent I have is straight from God. It is not self-created. Yes, I work hard to hone my skills, but it is entirely by the grace of God that I am able to do so. It has also put me in a position to be there for my family when am needed. Since I started this journey in June of 2011, there have been several situations where I have needed to help my family. Had I been in my previous job, it would have been much more difficult. I am now free to do whatever I need to do to help them, any time or place. Because of these things, even if I never sold another piece of jewelry, I cannot view what I do as wasted time.
As someone who enjoys creating and implementing inspiration as it is given, there is always a small shadow in the back of my mind that makes me hesitant to share my work. What if someone recreates it and sells it at prices which undercuts what I am doing? That's not easy to deal with because it does happen. I don't know if it has happened to me, but I know artists to whom it has. It is frustrating to sit at a show and watch people pick up a piece into which I've poured hours of time and a part of my heart and discuss with their friend how "This is such a good idea." and they have "everything it takes to make this piece." It is all I can do to squash my ego and just smile instead of stand up and yell, "Don't be a THIEF (yes, thief...theft of intellectual property is still theft) and steal MY idea; get your OWN!" Don't get me wrong, I understand that when an individual is starting out, replicating the work of, or at least similar to, the individuals who teach them or inspire them, is typical. It helps practice technique. I have several pieces I've created in classes that are similar to what the teacher creates; however, I'm not hocking them in my Etsy store and
passing them off as my design. They are my personal pieces or have been given to friends to enjoy. Continually replicating something identical to someone else and then trying to sell it at a price that is less than the originator, is outright theft. Can two people come up with VERY similar designs having never spoken or even seen one another's work? Absolutely! It happens, and each individual has a right to create and sell their design. There was no theft in such a situation. I'm speaking solely to those who blatantly ignore what is right and duplicate, in its entirety, another's work. That said, I don't want to be one of those people that refuses to teach others what I know or share thoughts because I'm afraid of being "ripped off." In light of that, I am constantly reminding myself that if I truly believe any inspiration I have is Divinely inspired, then I really do not own them, and I have to let them go. Will I eventually be copied? The possibility exists...but if it ever comes to that, maybe it will be because The Lord wants to see if I truly trust Him, or if I want to deal with it on my own. Is my ego more important than my testimony for Him? Again, this is certainly something with which I am in the process of dealing; it isn't something to which I always have the right response. However, I am trying.
Lastly, I'm often afraid of success. No, you didn't misread that...yes, I said
afraid of success. I suppose that sounds really odd, but it is a real fear. What if this thing actually does take off and grows disproportionately to my abilities, skills, and time? How will I take care of the business end of things? All of this and more has gone through my head at various times. To quell this doubt, I, again, look to Romans 8:28 and find peace that God is in control, and I do not have to worry. He has absolutely provided thus far, and will continue to do so. He has provided me with an extremely supportive network---my husband, parents, siblings, in-laws, my best and oldest (in length of time--not age:-) friend, and a newer friend who pushes me to try new things, keep learning, and keep applying for shows. Without them, this would not be possible.
To sum it up, fear can be irrational and paralyzing. Without the knowledge that God is in control and knowing that I have a wonderful support system, it would swallow me up. I will continue to press on and do what I love to do.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
"About what on earth do you have to be afraid?", you might ask, "You are living your dream each day by being able to do what you love and were created to do." Well...to name a few...failure, not being good enough, people not liking or appreciating my work, my jewelry not selling, having my work stolen (as in, replicated) by others, and success ( yes, success---not a typo).
Failure is always looming over my head. I quit a fairly decent paying career to chase this dream...what if I don't succeed? What if I'm always "just on the verge" of making it? Or what if I never even get to the verge? What if the money dries up and I can't afford to chase this dream anymore? Failure is a significant specter; one that I must beat down daily. I remind myself that "All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28 KJV) I believe creating jewelry is a purpose from God, so I must believe that it will work out according to His plan.
As an artist, I go through peaks and valleys. Sometimes the ideas just pour from my mind; sometimes..."I got nothin'". Even when the ideas come, that old
phantom, fear, sometimes appears and tells me that those ideas stink. Or maybe that others will think they stink and that I might as well give up because I'm not good enough anyway. Granted, sometimes, my ideas do stink and some are always better than others. However, that's to be expected, and I would do well to remember that. At times like these, it's hard to not feel discouraged. However, I just remind myself to look up and know that it will all work out in the end.
Next, I have grown to realize, that not everyone will like my work; I'm okay with that. In fact, I don't want to make "jewelry for everyone", I want to make jewelry that is true to who I am (see previous blog post), so that when someone sees it, even someone who wouldn't necessarily wear it, they will say, "Oh, that looks like something LaLa would make!" However, from time to time, the thought enters my head that NO ONE will like or appreciate my jewelry. These thoughts are usually concurrent with the previous ones of not being good enough. When these thoughts arise, I tell myself to push through. That what I am doing was destined by God, so someone, somewhere, will appreciate my work. My sweet husband always says, "There is an owner for each piece you make." I thank God for bringing him to me to remind me of that.
Going hand in hand with the previous two fears, is the one that my work won't sell. What if I put my heart and soul into all these pieces and they sit here for the rest of my life without being purchased? What then? Was it all just a huge waste of time? The answer to that is, of course, no. I have been blessed with opportunities to meet and make new friends because of this calling. I have also
been given opportunities to talk about Christ and what he has done for me. I
want to be clear to those I meet that any talent I have is straight from God. It is not self-created. Yes, I work hard to hone my skills, but it is entirely by the grace of God that I am able to do so. It has also put me in a position to be there for my family when am needed. Since I started this journey in June of 2011, there have been several situations where I have needed to help my family. Had I been in my previous job, it would have been much more difficult. I am now free to do whatever I need to do to help them, any time or place. Because of these things, even if I never sold another piece of jewelry, I cannot view what I do as wasted time.
As someone who enjoys creating and implementing inspiration as it is given, there is always a small shadow in the back of my mind that makes me hesitant to share my work. What if someone recreates it and sells it at prices which undercuts what I am doing? That's not easy to deal with because it does happen. I don't know if it has happened to me, but I know artists to whom it has. It is frustrating to sit at a show and watch people pick up a piece into which I've poured hours of time and a part of my heart and discuss with their friend how "This is such a good idea." and they have "everything it takes to make this piece." It is all I can do to squash my ego and just smile instead of stand up and yell, "Don't be a THIEF (yes, thief...theft of intellectual property is still theft) and steal MY idea; get your OWN!" Don't get me wrong, I understand that when an individual is starting out, replicating the work of, or at least similar to, the individuals who teach them or inspire them, is typical. It helps practice technique. I have several pieces I've created in classes that are similar to what the teacher creates; however, I'm not hocking them in my Etsy store and
passing them off as my design. They are my personal pieces or have been given to friends to enjoy. Continually replicating something identical to someone else and then trying to sell it at a price that is less than the originator, is outright theft. Can two people come up with VERY similar designs having never spoken or even seen one another's work? Absolutely! It happens, and each individual has a right to create and sell their design. There was no theft in such a situation. I'm speaking solely to those who blatantly ignore what is right and duplicate, in its entirety, another's work. That said, I don't want to be one of those people that refuses to teach others what I know or share thoughts because I'm afraid of being "ripped off." In light of that, I am constantly reminding myself that if I truly believe any inspiration I have is Divinely inspired, then I really do not own them, and I have to let them go. Will I eventually be copied? The possibility exists...but if it ever comes to that, maybe it will be because The Lord wants to see if I truly trust Him, or if I want to deal with it on my own. Is my ego more important than my testimony for Him? Again, this is certainly something with which I am in the process of dealing; it isn't something to which I always have the right response. However, I am trying.
Lastly, I'm often afraid of success. No, you didn't misread that...yes, I said
afraid of success. I suppose that sounds really odd, but it is a real fear. What if this thing actually does take off and grows disproportionately to my abilities, skills, and time? How will I take care of the business end of things? All of this and more has gone through my head at various times. To quell this doubt, I, again, look to Romans 8:28 and find peace that God is in control, and I do not have to worry. He has absolutely provided thus far, and will continue to do so. He has provided me with an extremely supportive network---my husband, parents, siblings, in-laws, my best and oldest (in length of time--not age:-) friend, and a newer friend who pushes me to try new things, keep learning, and keep applying for shows. Without them, this would not be possible.
To sum it up, fear can be irrational and paralyzing. Without the knowledge that God is in control and knowing that I have a wonderful support system, it would swallow me up. I will continue to press on and do what I love to do.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Petticoats on the Prairie...
Pics from Whimsy at the Warehouse...
Next show is May 11 in Waco...Funky Junk Roundup http://www.facebook.com/pages/Funky-Junk-Roundup/532224116793854
Until next time.
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Next show is May 11 in Waco...Funky Junk Roundup http://www.facebook.com/pages/Funky-Junk-Roundup/532224116793854
Until next time.
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Monday, April 8, 2013
Advancing With Technology...
I'm working on QR codes for my business...
Like me on Facebook
or...
Find my website
Download the scan app at http://scan.me
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Show Schedule...
Here is my show schedule so far for 2013...
More shows may be added as time progresses. Stay tuned!
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Whimsy at the Warehouse...
The ladies (The Rodeo Queens of West Texas) that put on this show do such a great job that they have been mentioned as a favorite in Flea Market Style more than once. Here is a bit about them from their blog:
The Rodeo Queens of West Texas are made up of a group of ladies who share a common passion for all things junky, vintage and eclectic! We are Cat Geiger, Cecilia Scott, Mary Smith and Leeann Moore. We produce a Premier Vintage Market twice a year. Our Fall show is always in Colorado City, Texas and we go on the road for our Spring Show!
Come to Ballinger, TX and see what all the fuss is about!
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Working Hard at the Junk Hippy Roadshow
The Junk Hippy Roadshow is a vintage/antique/handcrafted traveling market that is owned and operated by Kristen Grandi and her family from Oklahoma. They have only been in business a year, but have been wonderfully successful at it. Their motto is "Be nice or leave." This year, they have shows in Rosenberg (2), Tulsa, OKC (2), Amarillo, Colorado Springs, and Waco. I was honored to be part of the Rosenberg show on March 9, and will be back on July 13. Put it on your calendar and join us!
Here is a photo that was kindly taken by Mr. Avery Russell whose wife Janis makes wonderful quilts.
Here is a photo that was kindly taken by Mr. Avery Russell whose wife Janis makes wonderful quilts.
Monday, March 18, 2013
What's in a Price?
For many artists, pricing is one of those areas with which they struggle the most. There are reams of advice written for those of us wondering how to price our art. The piece of advice that has most often popped up in my research, is to not cheapen your work and the work of others by underpricing it. This really makes sense to me because I'm the one who has time and energy invested in each piece. However, I oftentimes get the feeling that some people are shocked when they see the price of my jewelry...especially the one of a kind pieces. This post is meant to provide insight into what exactly goes into pricing a piece of work.
When embarking upon the journey of pricing, the first consideration is the price of the components I used to create the piece. Obviously, this varies with almost each piece, so I cannot put the same price on each piece.
Next, I must consider time (labor). This does not only encompass the time it takes to craft the piece, but also the time it took to design it, the time it took to acquire the components, and a percentage of the time one spends doing other business activities, such as pricing and various paperwork.
The next part of pricing, is overhead. My overhead includes electricity and other utilities used to conduct business, tools of the trade, fuel for torches, packaging, displays, car fuel when necessary, website costs, Etsy fees, show fees, etcetera.
After considering these items, and to a certain extent, what the market will bear, I set a wholesale price. This is the price for which I would sell a piece to a middleman (typically a store owner); it also comes into play when consigning items. This must be high enough so that I can get a bit of profit on the piece, but also low enough to be raised to create a retail price. If the wholesale pricing step is skipped, I lose out when I sell to a middleman. No good business person would do that.
Lastly, I set the retail price. The retail price is the price by which I sell directly to the consumer. It is the price one sees on the price tag at a show or in a store.
Many times, when perusing Etsy, or even attending shows, a consumer will see comparable work created mostly by hobbyists that is priced much too low. This creates a disservice to those who are seriously trying to make a living with their craft and cheapens the market as a whole. I try not to be one who does that and price my jewelry accordingly...many times at the cost of not selling a piece quickly. However, my wonderfully supportive husband always tells me that there is an owner out there for each piece that I make; I just have to be patient and wait for them to find it!
Hopefully, this entry sheds some light on not only why my prices are what they are, but also the prices of other artists that you may see along the way.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Facebook
When embarking upon the journey of pricing, the first consideration is the price of the components I used to create the piece. Obviously, this varies with almost each piece, so I cannot put the same price on each piece.
Next, I must consider time (labor). This does not only encompass the time it takes to craft the piece, but also the time it took to design it, the time it took to acquire the components, and a percentage of the time one spends doing other business activities, such as pricing and various paperwork.
The next part of pricing, is overhead. My overhead includes electricity and other utilities used to conduct business, tools of the trade, fuel for torches, packaging, displays, car fuel when necessary, website costs, Etsy fees, show fees, etcetera.
After considering these items, and to a certain extent, what the market will bear, I set a wholesale price. This is the price for which I would sell a piece to a middleman (typically a store owner); it also comes into play when consigning items. This must be high enough so that I can get a bit of profit on the piece, but also low enough to be raised to create a retail price. If the wholesale pricing step is skipped, I lose out when I sell to a middleman. No good business person would do that.
Lastly, I set the retail price. The retail price is the price by which I sell directly to the consumer. It is the price one sees on the price tag at a show or in a store.
Many times, when perusing Etsy, or even attending shows, a consumer will see comparable work created mostly by hobbyists that is priced much too low. This creates a disservice to those who are seriously trying to make a living with their craft and cheapens the market as a whole. I try not to be one who does that and price my jewelry accordingly...many times at the cost of not selling a piece quickly. However, my wonderfully supportive husband always tells me that there is an owner out there for each piece that I make; I just have to be patient and wait for them to find it!
Hopefully, this entry sheds some light on not only why my prices are what they are, but also the prices of other artists that you may see along the way.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Schooled by Yoda...
No, I wasn't transported into a Star Wars movie...I wasn't even watching a Star Wars movie. In fact, I've only seen one movie all the way through--one of the new-fangled ones, not even an original! All that said, schooled by Yoda, I was.
As you know, if you've read my previous post, I've been on a class-taking binge the past week or so. I had two classes in Arlington at Bead Fest; one with Linda Larsen of Objects and Elements, and one with Viki Lareau, of The Bead Factory, on Marketing and Selling Jewelry. Nothing against, Viki, as she is extremely knowledgeable...but I took her class out of necessity, not because I really wanted to. I enjoy the creative process 1 BILLION times more than the business process:-( Linda, though, inspired me to push my creative boundaries. Her class was all about tab setting and riveting, two things I already did, but skills I needed to refine. This class did the trick! For the project, I set a spark plug gapper in tabs, instead of the agate slices and other natural stones like everyone else [(call me a rebel). There is a story behind the spark plug rapper, but that's for another post.]
Linda and I were talking after class and she asked me if I had other gappers. I told her I did; she said she would like to see me make another pendant with one and really get creative this time and send her pictures of it (some may have taken that as a less than a compliment, but I didn't--she had already said she liked the one I made in class.) I took it as a challenge and am going to create something truly fabulous of which to send her pictures.
Excuse the photo, it was taken after class in poor lighting and with no prop...The back plate is nickel silver and riveted to the top is a brass plate with tabs holding the spark plug gapper. You can't tell in the photo, but the top plate is raised from the bottom one. The top is rolled down to created a bail for a neck wire.
I know, I know. You're wondering where Yoda fits in all of this, and I'm getting there, I promise. No one ever accused me of NOT being verbose!
My next go-round was in Spring, Texas at Spring Beads (in Old Town Spring) with Richard Salley and Jessica Papke, of Rosy Revolver. (It was supposed to be Martina Stein, but her plans changed, and JJ came in her place--ends up as a positive for me.)
This was a series of three classes, in which we created three rings. I learned so many new tips and tricks and gained much-needed confidence. A HUGE thank you to Richard and Jessica!
Here is where Yoda comes to play. I've never really been one to gracefully accept compliments in person. Typically, real-time compliments embarrass me, and I tend to discount whatever it is people compliment or mumble a self-deprecating answer or some other noncommittal response. This is what happened on the day of my last class in Spring. Richard was walking around looking at everyone's work and stopped to watch me work. He said, "You do nice work." He then turned to walk away, at which time I replied, "I try." Well, if you are a Star Wars fan, you know what happens next...he stopped, turned around and responded, "You know what Yoda says...Do. Or do not. There is NO try...and you DO." That was a defining moment for me. I vowed to try to be more graceful and accepting when complimented in person. It can only serve to help me grow as a person.
Needless to say, it was a boost in confidence to have Richard Salley tell me I do nice work. It came at a time when I was particularly doubting my talents and my creative process. Those words from Richard, and the wonderfully kind and motivational words from Jessica (who also told me I have a good eye for design and am talented) were the impetuses I needed to nudge me to greater define my aesthetic and to push through the doubts, fears, and paralysis, that plague me.
Here are two of the rings I made in the classes with Richard and Jessica...again, not the best of photos, but you'll get the picture.
Signing off...
Until Next Time.
Cheers,
LaLa
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Off to Hone my Skills...
Hello, All! I'm taking a break for a few days from building my jewelry inventory and taking some classes at Beadfest Texas in Arlington Friday and Saturday. Then I'm off in the other direction to Spring Beads in Spring, Texas for a 3 day workshop with Richard Salley and Martina Stein (sorry, couldn't find a website for her) on making rings. I am excited to have these opportunities to practice and hone my metalsmith skills.
See you in a few days!
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
See you in a few days!
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Thursday, October 11, 2012
New Show...
Howdy, All! I am adding a new show to my schedule this fall. In addition to Texas Reds Festival in downtown Bryan on October 13 and Art Step in downtown Bryan on November 2, I will also be at the Pecan Harvest Festival at Royalty Pecan Farm between BCS and Caldwell. Admission to the Festival is free and their will be vendors, games, demos, etc. I will not only be a vendor, but will also be doing a demo on foldforming metal. If you are in the Bryan/College Station area that weekend, stop by and say Hi!
I've also posted new pieces of jewelry in my Etsy shop...
Currently, I am also trying to get to 100 likes on my FB page...I'm at 91. When the 100th person likes it, I will post a coupon code on my FB page that can be used in my Etsy shop.
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
I've also posted new pieces of jewelry in my Etsy shop...
Currently, I am also trying to get to 100 likes on my FB page...I'm at 91. When the 100th person likes it, I will post a coupon code on my FB page that can be used in my Etsy shop.
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Monday, October 8, 2012
More...
More items went up in my store tonight. Had a hitch in my get-a-long yesterday, so I was unable to work on it. Much better today, so I managed to get a few things up. Here is a sample...
+(800x598).jpg)
www.jewelrybylala.com
click on SHOP
Remember...if you happen to be in Bryan, Texas at Texas Reds Steak and Grape Festival this Saturday, stop by the Brazos Valley Jewelry Artists Guild booth and see my jewelry in person (along with some other wonderful stuff).
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
+(800x598).jpg)
click on SHOP
Remember...if you happen to be in Bryan, Texas at Texas Reds Steak and Grape Festival this Saturday, stop by the Brazos Valley Jewelry Artists Guild booth and see my jewelry in person (along with some other wonderful stuff).
Until Next Time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Antiques, Food, and, Best of All, JUNK!
Had a great time the past two days (and last Saturday) in Warrenton, Texas at Antique Weekend (well, it's really more than a weekend as it started last week Wednesday)! LOTS of walking and raking through containers of things (rusty and otherwise) to find objects with which to make jewelry. I found MANY pieces and can't wait to make something from them!
One of the last items I bought today is probably my favorite--my husband is actually the one who found it in the booth of a couple who own a shop called JUNKOLOGY in New Braunfels--can you say JET engine part?! Kat was very personable and accommodating--I can see a road trip to New Braunfels in my future! My sister-in-law bought a really fabulous metal folding chair from them in great turquoise and orange colors, and had I been in the market for some patio furniture, I could have snatched up an awesome RED glider, Can't wait to see what's in their shop!
I snapped a photo of some of the items I bought this time in Warrenton (it happens TWICE a year--the first weekend in April and October); these are my finds from last Saturday. Too tired to take pics of yesterday's or today's scores...maybe tomorrow!:-0
+(800x598).jpg)
Oh...and I posted more jewelry on my ETSY site! www.jewelrybylala.com and click on SHOP or www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
One of the last items I bought today is probably my favorite--my husband is actually the one who found it in the booth of a couple who own a shop called JUNKOLOGY in New Braunfels--can you say JET engine part?! Kat was very personable and accommodating--I can see a road trip to New Braunfels in my future! My sister-in-law bought a really fabulous metal folding chair from them in great turquoise and orange colors, and had I been in the market for some patio furniture, I could have snatched up an awesome RED glider, Can't wait to see what's in their shop!
I snapped a photo of some of the items I bought this time in Warrenton (it happens TWICE a year--the first weekend in April and October); these are my finds from last Saturday. Too tired to take pics of yesterday's or today's scores...maybe tomorrow!:-0
+(800x598).jpg)
Oh...and I posted more jewelry on my ETSY site! www.jewelrybylala.com and click on SHOP or www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Wow! I'm on a Roll!
Updated my website so that you can now directly link to my blog or to my Facebook page...be sure to check it out www.jewelrybylala.com . I also added a few new pieces to my Etsy shop. To view or purchase, simply go to my website and click on SHOP. So far I have 12 pieces with many more to come. Two new VIVACIOUS VERBS necklaces went into the shop with three more to go. I would post a picture, but then you wouldn't have to visit my site, would you ?! LOL! They are the perfect gift for any woman in your life that you want to encourage. I have chosen strong verbs to stamp on these pendants to encourage any woman who wears them to be bold in life. We all need a little reminder sometime, don't we?
I'd love to here from my readers (and I know they are out there...I've seen the stats:-), so comment away! Don't be shy! Let me know where you are from, how you found my blog, what type of jewelry you like, or even what type of jewelry you might like to see from LaLa Designs.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
I'd love to here from my readers (and I know they are out there...I've seen the stats:-), so comment away! Don't be shy! Let me know where you are from, how you found my blog, what type of jewelry you like, or even what type of jewelry you might like to see from LaLa Designs.
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
More in the Shop...
As promised, I've added more to my Etsy shop. More will be added tomorrow and in the days to come. I have 5 more necklaces to add to the Vivacious Verbs line...be sure to check them out.
www.jewelrybylala.com and click on SHOP
+(598x800).jpg)
+(598x800).jpg)
www.jewelrybylala.com and click on SHOP
+(598x800).jpg)
+(598x800).jpg)
Until next time...
Cheers,
LaLa
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Back in the Game!
Well, folks, I've got a few items up in my Etsy shop! To view my shop, visit www.jewelrybylala.com and click on the SHOP tab or visit www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com. I will put more items as the week progresses. I'm hoping to one day be able to put up one item each day. That's my ultimate goal!
Keep checking over the next few weeks to see what all is new. Remember, it is never to early to start shopping for Christmas!
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Keep checking over the next few weeks to see what all is new. Remember, it is never to early to start shopping for Christmas!
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Monday, October 1, 2012
Change is Here!
Hello! I promised that changes were coming to LaLa Designs, and here is one...restructuring of my website. After much contemplation, I decided to sell only from Etsy as opposed to trying to keep both Etsy and a separate online shop open. My website is now designed to tell you about LaLa Designs, give you examples of my work, to keep you abreast of my show schedule, and to link you to my Etsy shop. Shopping is simple...just click the link at the top of the page that says SHOP. It takes you directly to my Etsy store where you can shop to your heart's content!
I will take photos this week and get items into my Etsy shop within the next few days. I've had a few glitches arise, but have almost solved them all.
I hope you will check out the website to see the changes and share with your friends. Before you know it, Christmas will be here...it's never to early to start shopping!
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
I will take photos this week and get items into my Etsy shop within the next few days. I've had a few glitches arise, but have almost solved them all.
I hope you will check out the website to see the changes and share with your friends. Before you know it, Christmas will be here...it's never to early to start shopping!
Cheers,
LaLa
www.jewelrybylala.com
www.jewelrybylala.etsy.com
lala@jewelrybylala.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)