Kristin and her husband
Tell me about yourself. Not necessarily about your shop, but about you.
I am a high school English teacher, who is a lead singer in a band, works part time making teeth for my dad (he's a dental tech) and jewelry for my shop Connielou's Designs. I love being busy. I have a wonderful husband, who is in his own band, and two sons; the oldest is 15 and the youngest is 10. I love teaching, writing, reading, singing, and of course...making jewelry! My business card slogan is "I never leave home without my earrings!" because I don't:)
Tell me about your store.
My store is named after my grandmother Louise, who died from cancer, and my great grandmother Constance "Connie," whom I was named after (my middle name is Constance). I owe my love for jewelry to my grandmom because she would never leave home without her earrings, either:)
How would you describe your style?
As an artist, my jewelry is very unique. Sometimes I use recycled jewels; sometimes I use parts of my grandmother's old costume jewelry. I buy a lot of my parts from artisans and sellers on Etsy, though. I buy from Esty sellers or small stores near me most often because it's all about the "little people," not corporate America:)
How long have you been selling on Etsy?
I have been a member for over a year as a seller, but I only recently started to sell my jewelry (about 2 months). I've been averaging 10 creations per day, since in June I started to sell my jewelry inside and outside of Etsy. I'm proud to say in the last two months I have made 200 pieces of jewelry (necklaces, earrings, and bracelets).
http://www.etsy.com/listing/79670011/red-etched-wood-and-baby-blue-droplet
What is your workspace like?
Right now it's the dining room table, and it drives my husband crazy! Me too, actually:)
As an artist, my jewelry is very unique. Sometimes I use recycled jewels; sometimes I use parts of my grandmother's old costume jewelry. I buy a lot of my parts from artisans and sellers on Etsy, though. I buy from Esty sellers or small stores near me most often because it's all about the "little people," not corporate America:)
How long have you been selling on Etsy?
I have been a member for over a year as a seller, but I only recently started to sell my jewelry (about 2 months). I've been averaging 10 creations per day, since in June I started to sell my jewelry inside and outside of Etsy. I'm proud to say in the last two months I have made 200 pieces of jewelry (necklaces, earrings, and bracelets).
What is your workspace like?
Right now it's the dining room table, and it drives my husband crazy! Me too, actually:)
What networking do you do that you feel helps your business?In terms of "networking," I feel word-of-mouth has been the best for me. It also helps selling to people when they can see my product. My mom has been bringing in things to her work, and they are selling quickly. In terms of "social networking" online, I am having a hard time. I tweet, I've advertised, etc. My teams on Etsy have been great support; however, my sales have not increased yet from anything I am doing at present. I am hopeful, though, and I am not giving up. I feel like once people start to buy from me, it may spread. I really like my stuff, and it's so inexpensive. EVERYTHING is $25 and under!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/77319843/black-red-gothic-lace-cross-necklace
Name some of the sellers whom you look up to and why?
There are so many, and I aspire to be like them. Looking up to others helps me become a better artist:)
What are some of your favorite Etsy stores?
This is a tough one because there are tons. I really love Mermaid Treasures. I like her supplies, and she always gives free goodies with her purchases! I love the surprise:) I also like Rustic Goth; her paintings and prints are so awesome and different! All Earrings and Supplies is another great supply store. Perfect packaging, labeled and all.
Share one random fact about yourself… or more if you wish.
My motto for life: "To thine own self be true."
Do you have any advice for new sellers?
Don't give up, don't get discouraged. Try, try, try again, and I believe we can succeed!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/kristencwatts
Kristin has a promotion going on right now:
free shipping in US, and throughout the rest of August and Labor Day, 20% off EVERYTHING in my shop. Use coupon code 20OFF at check out.
So- go check out her shop!
Have a great weekend!
♥Erica
http://www.etsy.com/listing/77319843/black-red-gothic-lace-cross-necklace
Name some of the sellers whom you look up to and why?
There are so many, and I aspire to be like them. Looking up to others helps me become a better artist:)
What are some of your favorite Etsy stores?
This is a tough one because there are tons. I really love Mermaid Treasures. I like her supplies, and she always gives free goodies with her purchases! I love the surprise:) I also like Rustic Goth; her paintings and prints are so awesome and different! All Earrings and Supplies is another great supply store. Perfect packaging, labeled and all.
Share one random fact about yourself… or more if you wish.
My motto for life: "To thine own self be true."
Do you have any advice for new sellers?
Don't give up, don't get discouraged. Try, try, try again, and I believe we can succeed!
http://www.etsy.com/shop/kristencwatts
Kristin has a promotion going on right now:
free shipping in US, and throughout the rest of August and Labor Day, 20% off EVERYTHING in my shop. Use coupon code 20OFF at check out.
So- go check out her shop!
Have a great weekend!
♥Erica
What a great interview! Thanks for the feature:) You're children are lovely, Erica! Roller Derby Mom-I love it!
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