Barbe of soulyyours spent over twenty years working in the public school system before leaving to take on her growing Etsy shop full time. While in the process of transitioning to a part-time schedule in order to plan ahead for the big leap, Barbe was let go like so many others this past June. Since becoming her own boss, Barbe can’t imagine how she did it any other way.
How did you originally get into the business of making things?
I was volunteering with Hospice of Summa’s art therapy program, assisting Beth Wade, of Beth Wade Design, with activities for children having been touched by death. I was commissioned by a couple involved in the program to draw the logo for a 5K race, in memory of a daughter they’d lost; they wanted the caricature created in her image. Realizing the importance of symbolic mementos after having lost a loved one, I decided to design angel pins. After a lot of trial and error, Internet searching, and guidance by other artists, I stumbled upon precious metal clay (clay comprised of fine silver particles, water, and an organic binder that becomes 99.9% fine silver once fired in a kiln) and my first designs came to life! Since then, my pins (now retired), along with my other handmade original rustic jewelry designs, have been sold at juried art shows, galleries, and of course here on Etsy!
Tell us about your previous working situation:
I began my full-time work experience in 1986. Its initial purpose was not one of passion, but a means to a nice paycheck and a sound retirement. After the birth of my daughter Chelle in 2007, it became very difficult juggling a full-time job, running a small business, and giving quality time to my family. I was exhausted by the end of the day. Wanting to accumulate a couple of more years towards my 25-year retirement before setting out full time on my own, I decided to go from a management salary to a secretarial salary within the public school system. I relished in the thought of fewer hours, long winter holidays, spring breaks, and glorious summers. Not unlike many other businesses touched by recent economic challenges, as a low woman on the seniority scale, I was laid off after a year of employment in June of 2009.
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Not at first. I didn’t really have a concrete plan of where I wished to take my business. I pretty much stumbled upon Etsy, and after getting up enough confidence, decided to post my first piece in 2006. After some time away, I decided to revisit Etsy in 2007— when my daughter was just a few months old, and I was seriously considering other career options. In 2008, I began making a commitment to Etsy, building my shop, and posting on a regular basis.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time? Feel free to give us the nitty gritty business details.
Working for the school system, I was already prepared to be without a paycheck during the summer months. Given a couple of months notice prior to my layoff, I made certain our family bills were in order and stocked away funds enough to cover expenses regardless of how my Etsy sales and art shows were going.
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What’s your best marketing tip?
I would probably receive a “D” in marketing…
- Although, I’ve found that wearing my jewelry is probably one of the best free promotions!
- Visibility at art shows has proven a huge marketing outlet for me, bringing in many repeat local customers, wholesale accounts, and commissions.
- I absolutely love Etsy Treasuries! The luck of the draw with capturing one or being featured in one (thanks Kara of Knme) makes the home page is a sure marketing success!
- Listing, listing, listing! For me, with the right mix of balance and timing, this has proven a sure way to increase my visibility and sales on Etsy.
- I am a proud member of the Etsy Metal Clay Team, an absolutely amazing Team of fine silver jewelry artisans! The Team offers a wonderful support system, a wealth of resources, as well as an avenue for cross promoting.
What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
On occasion I’ve purchased ads. I noticed little, if any, increase in sales. I’ve been a bit more consistent with blogging than I have been with Twitter, and I use Facebook mainly to keep up with friends.
Walk us through your typical workday.
- 6:00 a.m. — The alarm rings, and I make my way to my zen space and practice meditation and yoga.
- 6:30 a.m. — I indulge in a cup of coffee while catching up on news, emails/Convos, Etsy Metal Clay Team posts, and Facebook. Somewhere in the midst, I kiss Jeff goodbye as he leaves for work, and greet my daughter Chelle good morning. Then, it’s time for a warm milk sippy before breakfast (for Mommy, Chelle, and our Great Dane Moia) and getting dressed. While Chelle is playing, I prep dinner.
- 9:00 a.m. — A couple of days a week, Chelle visits her grandparents so that I can work uninterrupted. Eventually, she will be attending the Spring Garden Waldorf School part time; otherwise, she “helps” me in my studio (mixed with a bit of free play, coloring, play dough, and reading). I print out, fill orders and pop them in the mailbox for our wonderful USPS man to pick up (very convenient and saves gas). Early in the week, I design (make/finish jewelry), and towards the end of the week I complete administrative tasks (order supplies, research, marketing, finances, etc.)
- 11:00 a.m. — During lunch, Chelle watches PBS, and I check emails, relist items, and check out the Etsy Forums and blog.
- 12:00 p.m. — While Chelle naps for a couple of hours, I work hard at finishing any remaining tasks.
- 2:00 p.m. — Chelle wakes up and sits on my lap while we share conversation and a snack, and when the weather is nice, we enjoy a bit of play outdoors. Jeff arrives home shortly thereafter, and a few days a week, I’m off to teach my creative awareness through jewelry making workshops (Promise Project) to elementary age school children.
- 5:30 p.m. — I arrive back home for dinner and the majority of the evening is spent with my family, outside of relisting a couple of pieces.
- 7:30 p.m. — Bathtime and story for Chelle, followed by her bedtime.
- 9:00 p.m. — At last, some free time with Jeff! …and the computer, checking emails, relisting, Facebook.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
I love being home, I love spending these irreplaceable moments with my baby girl — it feels so natural! I have my social moments, but I love my space and serene moments — the flexibility to draw from within. I certainly don’t miss the drama and tension of deadlines. I love living my passion! I love not feeling sacrificed.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
It did take some time adjusting to the inconsistent paycheck after 20+ years! But, it’s been a true lesson in priorities, and being able to joyfully live without spending just to spend. The comments of others who don’t necessarily perceive what I do as “real work,” because I enjoy it and because I do so from the comfort of my home, can be frustrating. Creating balance can be a challenge — trying to “leave work” in the evenings/weekends to fully be in the moment with my family and friends. Not being so hard on myself when I feel I’ve accomplished less than I should have on any given day. Although the Internet creates a world of opportunities unlike any other, with that comes the pressure as an entrepreneur to hop on every digital tool/marketing bandwagon. There is only so much time in one day… really.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
Not to wait for the universe to make the decision for me. My sister had been encouraging me for years to set out on my own. Now that I have, it’s hard to believe that I did it any other way. Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take. It is never too late to start dreaming about what you want to be when you grow up.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
- Finding new, economically viable ways to market my shop.
- Presenting new collections I’ve had on the back-burner for a while.
- Happy customers, healthy sales!
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I can’t say enough about how wonderful Etsy is! Not merely a place to display and sell your wares, but a wonderful community of support and resources! The world seems a bit cozier being able to connect with so many wonderful people! Thanks for taking the time to learn a bit more about me!
Thanks to Barbe for sharing her story. You can see some of Barbe‘s beautiful work in the Related Items. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
204 comments
Sign in to add your ownjewelrybyjackie says:
Congrats soulyyours!! Gorgeous work, and a great inspiration. Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
reflectionsbyds says:
Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
AntiNu says:
Is the fingerpainting for sale :B That is so sweet!
2 years ago
AntiNu says:
Is the fingerpainting for sale? :B That is so sweet!!
2 years ago
manvsgeorge says:
Lovely story about how soulyyours got started. Beautiful jewelry, too! Here's to her continued success!
2 years ago
caseysharpe says:
I always love these- they're so encouraging for those of us who're trying to make it as full time artists/crafters!
2 years ago
Krystyna81 says:
Wonderful...I love the picture of your daughter! Thanks for the tips :)
2 years ago
Lady80 says:
Great story! I can totally relate because I'm also working in the public school system while managing a shop here on Etsy. I find myself thinking about my business all the time, about ways to grow it and be successful. I agree with how natural it feels to be your own boss and do things on your own terms..and to be honest, since I was a college student for so many years, I've never gotten used to a steady paycheck. I'm inspired to rethink my passion and priorities..thanks.
2 years ago
aBreathofFrenchair says:
Thank you for sharing your story! You have a beautiful daughter!
2 years ago
NottyPooch says:
Thanks for sharing! I've been working hard to adjust my daily schedule and what you've mentioned do let me rethink some part of my daily life.
2 years ago
sweetcarolinadesign says:
Great story! It's always inspiring to see sellers that have been able to make Etsy their primary job!
2 years ago
lorilooms says:
Fabulous story! CONGRATS! ;)
2 years ago
RedFenyx says:
Great story! Congratulations!
2 years ago
UltimateOrganicSoap says:
Always love reading these stories! Great work and good luck in the days to come.
2 years ago
uncharted says:
congratulations - i love your packaging!
2 years ago
SandBoxStudio says:
Great story...thanks for sharing!!
2 years ago
flamingo says:
What a nice feel good story, you do beautiful work. Congratulations.
2 years ago
SimpleJoysPaperie says:
Beautiful work and inspiring story ~ thanks for sharing! :)
2 years ago
KamiMono says:
Thank you so much for this story, this Quit Your Day Job series is so great! Very inspiring, and I love to read about how other sellers manage their store while also juggling their own duties.
2 years ago
bylynnkrestel says:
beautiful work! many wishes for your continued success!
2 years ago
MelroseFields says:
Amazing work!
2 years ago
zadoodle says:
Beautiful work and inspiring to us stay-at-home moms. Thanks for sharing your story!
2 years ago
DrCraze says:
Congratulations soulyyours!!! Your work has been on my radar for awhile.
2 years ago
breadandroses2 says:
Congratulations, Barbe! Yet another great example of the many fine artists here in Northeast Ohio. Best wishes for your continuing success!
2 years ago
sydg says:
your work is very inspiring!
2 years ago
VixVintage says:
You are so beautiful in all ways, thanks for sharing your inspiring story.
2 years ago
sydg says:
Your work and story are very inspiring!
2 years ago
galit says:
Really inspiring! thank you for sharing some great ideas!
2 years ago
accentonvintage says:
Beautiful jewelry and great a story!
2 years ago
unikmotif says:
Really enjoy reading this interview. Her jewelery is gorgeous. Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
corrnucopia says:
Thanks for sharing your success story (great organized time line). I love your balance of family and work. Congrats and best wishes.
2 years ago
urbanknitfits says:
beautiful work and inspiring story. I especially like the idea- "of not waiting for the universe to decide it for you!" thanks so much
2 years ago
craftscafe says:
Barbe, your handmade items are beautiful. I wish you continued success!
2 years ago
michon says:
Congratulations, and way to bounce back from being laid off!
2 years ago
childdeluxe says:
Love your work and your day plan... inspiring. Thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
HarrietsHaven says:
Fantastic shop! Loved reading your story. And your daughter is adorable!!! :)
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
I always love reading these "Quit Your Day Job" articles. Congrats, soulyyours, on your success! Great designs! I especially like the Winter Solstice and Awaken necklaces.
2 years ago
HatsandHalos says:
Thanks for sharing your an inspiration to many. Good Luck to you and your family.
2 years ago
vintageNsome says:
Very cool and your items are beautifull.
2 years ago
polkadotscloud says:
Congrats :) it was a pleasure discover your Etsy shop !!! U made lovely and so unique things :)
2 years ago
okaySK says:
"Not to wait for the universe to make the decisions for me" You said it. This is a great interview. Thanx
2 years ago
WoodPigeon says:
Very pretty items! Well done.
2 years ago
sweetirie says:
Love these articles! Congrats on your success! xoxo
2 years ago
HatsandHalos says:
Thanks for the inspiration your story touches me as a stay at home mom and wish you much success on your business!
2 years ago
AgJewelryDesign says:
Barbe, of course you know that I think YOU ROCK! Tamra
2 years ago
MunroBoutique says:
thankyou and well done!! i get so inspired reading these!
2 years ago
EJPcreations says:
Such an insprational story. Thank you so much for sharing :)
2 years ago
modadimagno says:
That is FANTASTIC! So proud of you!
2 years ago
LolaRain says:
Thank you for your truly inspiring words! Your story reaffirmed my own path...leaving a full time job to live my passion. What a beautiful life and work you have created! Amazing.
2 years ago
PeculiarForest says:
yay! go Barbe! :)
2 years ago
mythunderstood says:
I have hearted your pieces for a while! Very best wishes to you!!!!
2 years ago
WearableByDesign says:
Wonderful artist and person!! I'm so glad to be a metal clay team member with Barbe!!
2 years ago
DreamSome says:
Yay Barbe, wonderful job!!
2 years ago
petragalvan says:
Hopefully I will be able to leave the school system one day.Thanks for sharing your story.
2 years ago
lulubugjewelry says:
Barbe is a fantastic artist and wonderful person! Yay Barbe!
2 years ago
handbagcave says:
Congrats! love the very original and funky jewelry!!!
2 years ago
aggieray says:
What a truly inspiring story! Enough to encourage others to do the same!
2 years ago
Thepaperboat says:
sweet!
2 years ago
Weezawear says:
Congrats on all your success. I'm aspiring to do the same and its great to see that it can actually happen.
2 years ago
RussianDollDesigns says:
lovely pendants!
2 years ago
liveclay says:
I love these little items, they are very special. And I can totally relate to a household consisting of one child and one dog. That's our family too!
2 years ago
beautifulCORRUPTION says:
WOW. This is so inspiring, and very heart-warming too. Congratulations on your success, especially for doing it your way. P.S. Chelle is simply gorgeous! <3
2 years ago
ThePaperTray says:
Thank you for sharing your story! Very inspiring! LOVE your stuff!
2 years ago
ThePaperTray says:
I just saw we live close to each other! Small world!
2 years ago
elisasherejewelry says:
Thanks so much for sharing! A lovely story :)
2 years ago
ThreadRare says:
What a happy, inspiring story. And a sweet little girl!
2 years ago
benddownboutique says:
i absolutely love your jewellery. as a student trying to balance college, work and my social life as well as etsy, this has helped me so much =)- mega inspired! i do intend to buy some of your jewellery, as soon as i have money to spend! haha x
2 years ago
melsartbuffet says:
Thank you Soulyyours for your eloquent words. Truely inspiring!
2 years ago
KomisCouture says:
Congrats Barbe! This is so exciting, it's always wonderful to hear and see someone's dreams come true! :) I wish you continued success in your ventures! -Krista
2 years ago
lovelygifts says:
Great story and nice pieces!
2 years ago
polkadotsandblooms says:
Barbe you have done so well - good for you. Wishing you every success! Great article, loved to read it!
2 years ago
LaBellaCandela says:
I love these stories! Beautiful work and photography!
2 years ago
BrickRoadBoutique says:
I just loved reading your story. It really gives me hope. Your work is beautiful and meaningful and you deserve the success! Keep up the creative work!
2 years ago
artofjane says:
That was great.
2 years ago
cutelittlething says:
Ah....yes, still dreaming of what I want to be when I grow up!
2 years ago
miachic says:
beatiful stuff! love the earthyness of her desigsn! check out my vintage style jewelry store! http://www.miachic.etsy.com
2 years ago
PeppermintDaydreams says:
"It is never too late to start dreaming about what you want to be when you grow up." Aaaaaaa, love this line ;)
2 years ago
catherinelunashea says:
very inspirational! Thanks. And lovely jewelry.
2 years ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
Beautiful your interview, your story and of course your jewelry. Your shop is really nice and reading your story inspires me. Thank you
2 years ago
pinkpursecreative says:
Beautiful designs! Absolutely love the crush necklace.
2 years ago
dorijenn says:
Nice article! Congrats on your success!
2 years ago
katjojo says:
i starred AWAKEN- love your stuff~ thanks for being willing to share yourself with us!
2 years ago
bysweetmom says:
inspiring thanks for sharing
2 years ago
odiliafu says:
Congrats!! Beautiful work and inspirating story.
2 years ago
DowntownGirlDesigns says:
Very neat items!
2 years ago
lifeofcolors says:
Beautiful jewelry!
2 years ago
maxandolivia says:
Congratulations!! as always, inspiring story :)
2 years ago
ModernMetalJewelry says:
Love the article, Barbe and of course I love your work!
2 years ago
vintagemaison says:
lovely work - go girl!
2 years ago
MangoTango says:
CoNgRaTuLaTiOnS, Barbe!
2 years ago
CindyEllison says:
Fantastic designs! Your story will encourage others...thank you.
2 years ago
eroa says:
Thank you for sharing your story.
2 years ago
eroa says:
Thank you for sharing your story.
2 years ago
meljensdesigns says:
Congratulations on being featured, thank you for the wonderfully inspirational insight! Your daughter is adorable, and your jewelry is really awesome. :-)
2 years ago
recycledwares says:
your store pictures are wonderful. i love the contrast of the metal and wood and the soft romantic effect you give the photos. beautiful work.
2 years ago
orchardfarmsoap says:
beautiful story and shop!! happy to hear another happy story of mom's on etsy!
2 years ago
Heartwoven says:
Thank you for sharing your story, for inspiring those of us who are still trying to attain that independent path. Your work is beautiful and so is your spirit! Peace.
2 years ago
jennyhoople says:
Very inspiring! "Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take." I have goosebumps!!
2 years ago
craftpile says:
thank you for sharing! beautiful designs!
2 years ago
clynstudio says:
wonderful success story, lovely pieces, beautiful person and Mom. An inspiration.
2 years ago
quenchmetalworks says:
Congratulations on your success! Your shop is faboush!
2 years ago
DaisyJaneDesigns says:
Congrats Barbe! You are truly and inspiration.
2 years ago
LizardsJewelry says:
Wonderful story, team mate (go EMC Team!)and artist!
2 years ago
PattiTrostle says:
Congrats! Love the "Souly Yours"! Very inspiring and your work is just beautiful!
2 years ago
dinaalexander says:
Go Barbe, congratulation EMC team mate!!!
2 years ago
ReSpirit says:
Congrats Sis! :)
2 years ago
ScarletandtheSea says:
Thank you for sharing your wonderful story. Really aspirational!
2 years ago
redhot66 says:
It's always nice to hear about Etsy seller success instead of those other sites out there that act like it's a fantasy! Congrats on your success and I hope it lasts and lasts.
2 years ago
shannondzikas says:
yeah, it's the time with the kids that makes you work harder for this! Congrats!
2 years ago
thedaydreamer says:
Wonderful story! Many congratulations! :)
2 years ago
310jewelry says:
Congrats. Right there with you.... Public school system full time, jewelry part time... you're life is my goal. :)
2 years ago
itsmolly says:
Congratulations!!! Your product is gorgeous. I loved reading your daily schedule and the time you spend with your family. Very inspiring information, thanks for sharing. I've got some Qs I'll ask in the Lab :o) ~Molly
2 years ago
phoenixartstudio says:
Thank you so much for sharing your story! It's an inspiration and I can only pray that one day I might have a similar story of success to tell. Thank you again!
2 years ago
DaywaltsStudio says:
I'm so glad to personally know you. You're such an inspiration and you always bring a smile to my face. I love what you do and what you bring to the community. You are making the little corner of our world (NE Ohio) a much better place to live. xoxo
2 years ago
SmileOfAnubisLeather says:
These are absolutely beautiful pieces of jewelry! I love them!
2 years ago
jkadesigns says:
Thanks for sharing! Love your pendants.
2 years ago
BlackDaisyDesigns says:
Wonderful! Thank you so much for sharing. Every time I read these articles, I get a little boost of hope that I can do this too. :)
2 years ago
MarleyLondon says:
"Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take." That is a great quote. I think I'll meditate on that all day. Thanks. I needed it!
2 years ago
contempojewels says:
Lovely! Thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
floria says:
Great article! Very inspiring!
2 years ago
PetitePersonalities says:
Congrats Soulyyours! I absolutely love what you said about "never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take". Isn't that the truth! I just opened my shop on Etsy and plan to use that thought process to make my shop a success. Thanks for the reminder of how it should be done. Beautiful work!
2 years ago
gemagenta says:
Congratulations Barbe! :) Your story is so inspiring, I don't have any babies yet, but when I have them I'd love to work in my passion for jewelry and share with them all the time I can, I hope someday my shop can fulfill that goal too :) And thank you for your advice "Not to wait for the universe to make the decision for me"... so true!
2 years ago
MonkeyCatBoutique says:
thank you for sharing your story.
2 years ago
Lambert says:
Barbe comes across as a rare combo of good human qualities and talent. Very good feature (good call Marymary)
2 years ago
backyardcolorado says:
Beautiful story-beautiful people-beautiful wares!
2 years ago
mamieldesigns says:
Love your work! Always enjoy reading how Etsians have gotted to where they are and the path they have taken.
2 years ago
CuriOhs says:
Lovely Jewelry! :)
2 years ago
lisaleeworks says:
Your work is really nice and unique. Its interesting to see how life just happens, ya know? Not initally expecting anything more than to see where something goes, yet here you are! Life is good. Live Well--lisalee
2 years ago
Epiphany6andCo says:
"Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take." I almost fell over when I read that from you, because I've never heard it being said that way. That really speaks miles of wisdom and truth. Thank you for sharing beautiful story, jewelry, and insight!
2 years ago
lamixx says:
congratulations! great story
2 years ago
jubilantwares says:
Very inspiring and you make beautiful stuff....makes me realize I need to go re-work, re- think my store...
2 years ago
NoisyButterfly says:
Beautiful items.
2 years ago
alefran25 says:
Congratulations! beautiful jewelry!!
2 years ago
greenleafcreative says:
Lovely...I can relate!
2 years ago
HornCatCreations says:
I love reading these success stories. They're so inspiring!
2 years ago
VYNALEKdesigns says:
INSPIRING!
2 years ago
valleygirldesigns says:
I Love the style of all your items, great advice too. Best of luck!
2 years ago
FunnyLittleBird says:
Beautiful story and such an inspiration to keep working hard!
2 years ago
Veruchka says:
Thank you for sharing - it is exactly how I would like to spend my time - with my big family and creating.
2 years ago
herrohachi says:
"It is never too late to start dreaming about what you want to be when you grow up." - i love that! congrats on your success soulyyours!
2 years ago
EASantangelo says:
Your work is beautiful and your story is inspirational! I admire your balance or family and personal fulfillment. I think it is fantastic! Thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
Beaddles says:
This is so inspirational. You do beautiful work.
2 years ago
mykky says:
I especially liked hearing, "Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take." I love your work!
2 years ago
brianarose says:
its a dream!
2 years ago
thriftage says:
Great work, love the packaging!
2 years ago
artdecadence says:
What a stunningly beautiful lady you are! And the precious metal jewels are the best of this type I've ever seen...bravo girl!
2 years ago
emmybo says:
The "Quit Your Day Job" articles are always my favorite, but I found this one to be particulary inspiring- thank-you for sharing your work and spirit with us :-) All my best to you!
2 years ago
allthepreciousthings says:
Barbe, your work is just beautiful! It's an inspiration, reading your story.
2 years ago
natchahandmade says:
Great story!
2 years ago
baconsquarefarm says:
Barbe~ enjoyed reading your story, very inspiring~ Your daughter is adorable finger painting with mommy. Your designs and picture taking are beautiful. Wish you continued success on Etsy and where life takes you and your family in the future.
2 years ago
RabbitHoleProduction says:
Never to late to find ones way! Congrats!
2 years ago
AmyMadden says:
I also recently left a teaching career to focus more on my own art. Thanks for sharing your inspiring story! The money may be less steady than before (believe me, I know!), but it seems that you are creating a wonderfully creative and nurturing experience for your daughter- which is the most priceless thing of all.
2 years ago
ricerafferty says:
Great story! Thank you for sharing and I wish you continued success!
2 years ago
blackbird72 says:
great story!
2 years ago
Squier says:
Wonderful article and fabulous jewelry pieces! A great inspiration.
2 years ago
buttonsbyrobin says:
What a nice inspiring story! Thanks for sharing and much continued success!
2 years ago
BlessedRepublic says:
Congratulations Soulyyours! Keep going. One day you would look back and say "This is more than I dreamed of." Very inspiring.
2 years ago
ChichiChick says:
Congratulations Barbe, I'm inspired!
2 years ago
gashjewels says:
your work is so unique..good for you for being able to leave your day job and make your dreams a reality !
2 years ago
CitrusMoonArt says:
Fabulous and inspiring! "Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take." . . . I love that!
2 years ago
LiahLovesLuna says:
OMG I love your jewelry and your story! Congrats to you! Just what I needed to read today to keep myself on the positive track these days! :)
2 years ago
VixensEmpire says:
I love love love the photo of you at the beginning of the article! And these "quit your day job" articles are my favorite part of reading the Etsy blog. So glad you made it work :)
2 years ago
StitchSprite says:
Great story! Love this metal work.
2 years ago
hillaryheydle says:
What a wonderful profile full of inspiration!! This is what I, too, needed today. Your spirit, your story and your beautiful work, all have encouraged me to stay on my path. Blessings!
2 years ago
annashoub says:
I love hearing stories of working mom artists. Just hearing someone's schedule is so helpful. Beautiful jewelry. Congratulations on your success.
2 years ago
Flatoutfunky says:
Thanks for the story.. It was really nice to read something inspiring today.
2 years ago
bobbiepene says:
So inspiring - I aspire to have your success someday.
2 years ago
lapisbeach says:
Thank you for sharing soulyyours...your pieces are so beautiful...and unique.
2 years ago
soulybarb says:
Love your jewellery, your story, and your shop name:)
2 years ago
nomoredisco says:
Gorgeous work - Very inspiring
2 years ago
SepiaSmiles says:
I loved this article especially this part "Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take. It is never too late to start dreaming about what you want to be when you grow up" brilliant! congratulations x
2 years ago
tigesandweince says:
Great interview thanks for sharing.
2 years ago
ASJArtworks says:
What a great story to start out my day :-) And beautiful jewelry, too!
2 years ago
prairiechicxx says:
I loved reading your story Barbe, and I am so glad that you are doing what feels right and good - being able to spend time with your daughter and still be creative! At age 52 I am 'over qualified' for most jobs in natural resources that I am applying for... so I am just getting started on Etsy and trying to figure out how to earn a living at home. Seeing your schedule and how you set time aside to work (and play) was really good information. Your jewelry is awesome by the way! Thanks!
2 years ago
trudiedavies says:
Inspiring! - Love PMC, so versatile.Congrats
2 years ago
MishaBellone says:
Your Presentation is very stylish and professional :)
2 years ago
artbrain says:
"Never let the fear of others determine the path that you are meant to take." Such great advice. Thanks for your inspiring article!
2 years ago
Jasio says:
wow beautiful work!
2 years ago
4mydaughters says:
Thank you for the inspiration, I needed to read the part that said not to wait for the world to decide for me! I hope that I can do as well as you, Thank you again for being such an inspiring woman! Cheers! :-)
2 years ago
valerieoutlet says:
Best of luck to you!!
2 years ago
jmooredesignLLC says:
I love your work.
2 years ago
shabbyandchic says:
Thanks for sharing. I love your work...and a dream of mine to quit my day job. I am always creating and crafting and also have multiple vintage items to sell. Just need to get busy.
2 years ago
NewGalexC says:
It's great to read about people who commit to creating their art. Thanks for some much needed inspiration. Your jewelry is wonderful!
2 years ago
Eleven11designs says:
Thank you for sharing your story. Your work is absolutely beautiful! Very inspiring. So nice to see a fellow artist from Akron, OH :-) That is where I was born!
2 years ago
SimplyBiana says:
Beautiful story! Thanks for sharing with us! Your work is incredible!
2 years ago
simpleluxury says:
It is wonderful meeting another artist from Ohio, I think that we need to start a team, since there seems to be quite a few of us. You work is beautiful and congrats for being able able to pursue it fulltime.
2 years ago
LisaLMK says:
Loved your story. Totally relate to your time with hospice and following that direction in a creative way. I am very happy for you and especially for your daughter !
2 years ago
babybuntingetc says:
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on living your dream. I agree, that we can find the most important things in life are free, family and friendships. I too just got laid off last May, and love being my own boss, doing something I love to do. Also, would like to thank Etsy for providing a place to share our creations with the world.
2 years ago
lilysoffering says:
You have inspired me to one day pick up the art of PMC. I have dabbled in it for a little but for now I work in wax. I have seen your shop previously and have always admired your work. ROCK ON!
2 years ago
JGRousseau says:
Loved reading about your business -- very inspiring and interesting. Beautiful jewelry!
2 years ago
MyWisteriaCottage says:
Nice stuff you do. You sound grounded and that is important to this business. I envy you to be able to quit.
2 years ago
sydandmarc says:
That's awesome! All of the quit your day job stories are such an inspiration to me. Thank you for sharing your happy ending, you are beautifully living the dream life.
2 years ago
debrossehardesty says:
Beautiful jewelry. Barbe, you're an inspiration, thanks for telling your story. :)
2 years ago
marla294 says:
Lovely jewelry. Thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
ACurveRTwo says:
Great jewelry. Awesome journey. The best to you!
2 years ago
ACurveRTwo says:
Great jewelry. Thanks for sharing your gift. It WILL make room for you.
2 years ago
judemcconkey says:
our Soulyour shop is one of the first people I noticed when I joined Etsy.. your work is stunning and I think you're an amazing artist. Love the interview and a chance to get to know you better, Barbe!
2 years ago
FlowersFromFatima says:
I love this story...So inspiring! I really wish greater success to you!
2 years ago
Urbanknit says:
i'm feeling very inspired! don't tell my boss though, haha
2 years ago
patcher says:
Just saw you work. Amazing. Off to pick out a piece for myself. Congrats on your success.
1 year ago
shopkoolgifts says:
Wonderful inspiration to those of us who have lost our jobs and those who are wanting to. Love the breakdown of your day and that your family is a big part of it! Kudos!!
1 year ago
chantalmarieliving says:
YOur daughter is beautiful. Enjoy every moment with her. I'm glad you have this chance.
1 year ago
ShopHolst says:
very unique
1 year ago