We've had 5 days of etsy features...I hope you've had fun reading.
This last feature, I'm so happy to introduce.
She's Catherine...she's adorable and she is so talented.
Here's Catherine....
Your shop name and web address:
Catherine Marissa
http://CatherineMarissa.etsy.com
How long have you been in business and did you start on etsy or somewhere else? (craft show, etc.)
I started selling jewelry in 2004 when I left a career in elementary education. Like many folks back then, I began with craft shows and then moved into local boutiques.
Explain what you sell and how you get inspiration for new items.
I sell metalwork jewelry - - primarily hand stamped earrings and rings. You will also find some gemmy goodies in my shop.
For me, inspiration is unpredictable - - everywhere and yet fleeting at the same time. When I look for inspiration or feel desperate for a new idea, nothing shows up. Most of my ideas come to me while I’m out walking or drifting off to sleep - - basically letting my mind wander.
I’m inspired by a little bit of everything - - characters in books and movies, nature, texture, daydreams…
What books, blogs, etc have you found helpful in running your Etsy business?
I am a big fan of the “Crafty Reading Roundup” on One Pretty Thing (http://www.oneprettything.com ). Rachel posts a variety of articles related to craft sales and blogging. I find topic specific articles easier to digest than a big business book, so the roundup works perfectly for me.
I also think Megan Auman’s “Crafting an MBA” ( http://www.craftmba.com/ ) is an incredible blog for folks interested in the business end of selling their creations.
Did someone inspire you to start a shop? (family, other bloggers/etsians, etc.)
I met a crafter during one of those painfully slow craft shows {aren’t those the worst?!} who mentioned I might do well on Etsy. I remember having no clue what she was talking about since I didn’t spend much time online back then. Endless thank yous to her for introducing me to a site that makes selling easy for tech challenged folks like me.
Do you stock your shop with the same items or does it differ by the season, etc?
I have a core collection {the Itty Bitty jewelry} of little stamped stud earrings and custom sized rings. Those are always available, although the images that I list may vary seasonally. I keep the most popular designs {om, lotus, and diamond} up year round. I also try to add new images to keep the line fresh - - this Spring, I am adding a mod leaf, a high heel, and a sailboat to the stamped designs.
I introduce new products as I create them. If they generate interest, I will keep them in the shop. Some jewelry that I love during development may not perform well in the shop and is discontinued.
What are your plans for the future of your shop...where do you hope to be in 3 years? 5 years?
Dare I confess that I am actually enjoying a break from setting goals for my shop? I spent a couple years building the shop into something that was manageable with the time available {I’m a busy homeschooling momma of 2 - - one who has many therapy & Dr. appts} and am not in a position to grow it further without sacrificing time with my family.
I am looking forward to a natural evolution.
What's your favorite crafting snack?
I don’t eat while I create since I’m making wearables and often working with flame.
When I am catching up on blogs or paperwork, it’s a whole different story. You might catch me with a handful of Gardetto’s, pita chips & hummus, or a daiquiri.
What's your favorite crafting music?
I shuffle Pandora stations A LOT - - mostly hip hop, electronica, and Journey-esque pop rock. A good beat keeps me moving.
If I get a chance to sneak work in during the day, I am probably listening to talk radio instead of music.
Is there anything else my readers should know about you and your Etsy biz?
I blog at http://averyandwinslow.blogspot.com . I have an occasional jewelry related post, but for the most part, it is the more personal side of my crafty adventure.
Also, if your readers have any specific questions, they are welcome to contact me via Etsy to chat.
Thank you so much, Alicia, for welcoming me into your online home!
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Thanks Catherine!
Go check out Catherine's shop :)
Thanks for joining me on this fun week of features.
I have some fun things about me to share...we've been off gallivanting around...hopefully I'll have some fun pics to share.
Have a great weekend, my dearies.
xo
{alicia}
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