Watch the video below for an introduction to this post and to learn why I’m featuring Lisa for Follow Friday:
[FLOWPLAYER=http://blacksburgbelle.com/wp-content/videos/FollowFridayLisa.flv,600,450]
Mini Interview: Lisa discusses how she got started, balancing being a mom and running a creative business, and her number one tip for Etsy sellers.
1. You make beautiful jewelry with quality materials, and I think everyone would love to hear what inspired you to go down this nontraditional path. Where did it all begin?
I think I was always an artist. Always creating. Always dreaming. Always planning. I knew since I was very little that I was going to be an artist “when I grew up”. Although I studied art in college, I didn’t discover metal and the power of fire until much later. Once someone put a hammer and torch in my hand, I knew I was destined to play with metal for the rest of my life! For me, I am vastly inspired by the potential of creating wearable art that will put a smile on the recipients face! And although the jewelry market is vastly over populated, I cannot imagine doing ANYthing else!
2. I’ve been talking to a lot of moms who are struggling with raising children and running a creative business, and you are someone I always encourage them to connect with. Can you give your top tip for moms who are trying to find a balance?
Balance is always a struggle…but I find that you need to do a couple things. Prioritize first. Do you really want your business to grow? And are you willing to sacrifice your own personal time? Knowing that will allow you to move forward. My family always comes first. But a growing business means I work…a lot. My kids have learned to respect that time, but it also means that when I am done working I am wholly present for them. What that also means is there is not a lot of “me” time. But that is a sacrifice I’m willing to make.
I also tell mom’s you need a schedule. A time for work. A time for family. Be flexible…Be spontaneous, but having those guidelines will allow you to stay on track through out the day!
3. With close to 700 sales on Etsy, I want to tap into that expertise. What’s your number one tip for Etsy sellers?
Number one tip for Etsy sellers…hmmm tough one. I think connecting with my customers. They are not just a sale. They are an individual who chose ME. ME! Not the other guy. That makes them golden. Treat them as such, and they will come back to you!
Hi Lisa and April!
I loved this post and I’m definitely going to follow! I love your shop Lisa and also all that great energy behind your blog. Do you have any tips on pricing your items? I see that you definitely charge what it’s worth and that’s something that many of us struggle with considering all the jewelry businesses that are out there. Any words of advice?
Thanks!
Hey Kim!
I know your question is for Lisa {and I bet she has lots of great advice on this one}, but I thought I’d just throw in my advice. If you need to raise your prices because you aren’t charging enough to be successful in the long run, just do it. Experiment with it–what’s the harm? At the very least, you can reduce the prices in a few weeks if you’re losing a lot of sales. But, you might be surprised that you get more sales when you raise your prices. I know so many creative entrepreneurs who raised their prices and their sales increased. Remember this: you never say that the cheapest product is the best. EVER! You might say you got an amazing deal, but you want people equating your products with handmade quality. Price for success–it’s the only option.
Lisa, what a beautiful shop you have .. exquisite work ! I love your advice about prioritising – the only way to get things done with kids around . I hear ya 🙂
thank you everyone for your kind words.
please feel free to email me with your questions!! But trust April…she has great advice…and yes, if you feel the need to raise your prices…JUST.DO.IT! don’t apologize, and don’t wait!
xoxo
LOVE Lisa!! And my earrings:)!! Good FF April:)!