How Do I Approach Stores About Selling My Jewelry?

by Paula Hisel
(Nicholasville, KY )

Brown and gold beaded charm bracelet by Paula Hisel

I have a small beaded jewelry business. I do pretty well at fairs and festivals, but I am looking to continue to grow.

My friends have suggested approaching local boutiques and other specialty stores about carrying my jewelry.

However, I have no idea how to go about cold-calling stores and quite frankly, the idea of just walking into a store like that scares me to death.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Paula
Simply Beadiful

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How Do I Approach Stores About Selling My Jewelry?

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Getting Prepared to Approach Shops
by: Rena

Hi Paula,

You are absolutely NOT alone when it comes to feeling this way! I fiddled around and procrastinated and nearly made myself sick over contacting shops before I finally did it. I was astonished to discover it was actually nowhere near as terrifying and difficult as my mind had made it out to be!

For most artists, this is out of our comfort zone for all kinds of reasons - such as fear of rejection by shops, nervousness about doing something new, and feelings of "I'm not worthy!" about conducting business-to-business transactions.

But I want to reassure you that it's nowhere near as hard as our minds make it seem. And being prepared makes you feel far more confident - instead of feeling like you're stepping into a lion's den with your jewelry! :o)

These pages should help you get prepared mentally, emotionally, and business-wise:

Who's Afraid of the Big, Bad Cold Call? - Catherine's excellent advice will help you put things in perspective and get started contacting shops about carrying your jewelry.

Approaching Shops and Galleries with Your Jewelry - Tips for approaching shops and galleries about carrying your work; setting appointments with shop owners; professional ways to show your handmade jewelry to them.

I Love Making Jewelry, but Just Nervous to Start a Business - The comments below the main article have lots of great advice and encouragement for getting past the nervousness and getting your jewelry into shops and galleries.

Jewelry Consignment Checklist - This checklist takes you step-by-step through the process of selling jewelry on consignment the safe, smart way. (Even if you're planning to wholesale your jewelry, this is worth reading in case a shop you like offers you a consignment opportunity instead.)

Selling Jewelry Wholesale and on Consignment - Lots of other related tips, ideas, and strategies.

Paula, I know you can do it! We're all pulling for you!

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