Bead and Button Show

The day is near...I leave tomorrow for Milwaukee to attend and sell my wares at my first Bead and Button Show. I would like to again thank the ISGB for this opportunity. I received a place in the show among 2 other artists as a marketing opportunity from the Society after applying about 3 months ago. Bead and Button is the largest consumer bead show in the U.S. it is 2 weeks long with many, many classes by expert teachers. The Marketplace is open to the public starting Thursday evening with a sneak preview and continues through Sunday.

I forget from time to time, how much goes in to doing a show not to mention, putting on a huge show like this. I have been making beads for months to set aside so that I don't deplete my Etsy shop and forget about my loyal customers. Making beads for both has been a challenge. I have a carry-on full of beads and some stashed in my suitcase too! Display items, lights, cords etc. have been mailed to the hotel so they will be there when I get to the check in. List after list of thing to remember, things to take, don't forget this, don't forget that....

The worst part (if there is one) is not knowing what to expect. Since I have never attended this show, I have no clue as to how many beads to take! But, I can only take so many and whatever is left will be listed in my Etsy shop as soon as I return.

Creative Bead Chat

Sharing a great opportunity for a free ad in the Facebook group, Creative Bead Chat. If you are not a member, it's a great place to chat about your latest projects, listings, shows, and any questions you have about making jewelry or want opinions about your jewelry or booth set up. Anything jewelry related! https://www.facebook.com/groups/CREATIVEBEADCHAT/?fref=nf

Pinterest

Pinterest can be very addicting! Although I'm not one of those addicts, I find some very beautiful inspiration there for my beads. I've created a Pinterest board featuring jewelry made by my customers using my beads in the designs. If you would like to be invited to Pin on this board, just leave a comment in the section below with your email. If you don't feel comfortable leaving your email on a public site, just contact me through my Etsy shop and I'll add you!

Marketing Savy

There's been some talk about naming your beads and jewelry for online sales. Some are strictly referring to search key words, saying it's not neccesary to name them. I think a name can sell a product also. Imagine a set of beads listed as Lampwork glass beads, Pink, gold, green, set of 12. Or...Set of 12, Handmade lampwork glass beads in pink champagne, iridescent golden shimmer and olive green 'Autumn Dawn' Which would make you want to purchase this set? (assuming the pictures are top notch) Names and descriptions can help sell your jewelry and beads. People love to be romanced and since online shopping is strickly visual, the right name and description is very important. This set sold the day after it was listed.