Tell us about your shop and the idea behind it.
William and I began working together on creative projects the very first time we met. After months of playful collaboration, we ended up with an assortment of jewelry and print design that we thought other people might like, and we opened up our Etsy shop, Son of a Sailor — it’s truly a union of two creative minds. We make things that are affordable, colorful, and spirited that we would like to have ourselves, and hope that other people enjoy.
Tell us about your previous working situations and how you discovered Etsy.
William is a graphic designer and illustrator that spent time in the Navy and the oil fields of Odessa, Texas. To say he has had a varied background is a bit of an understatement. When we met, he had just finished a year-long expedition around the world. He had spent a great deal of time in Greece, walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain, traveled around the U.S., and ended up in San Francisco.
My background has been in fine art, photography, and design, working in museums and galleries for the past seven years. I have also spent quite a bit of time dabbling in interior design, and moonlighting as a contributing writer for Apartment Therapy. After spending a year at a fascinating and groundbreaking photography space in San Francisco, I decided to return to Austin with William to plant some roots.
Both William and I stumbled upon Etsy quite some time ago, and it had been our go-to for creative, one-of-a-kind gifts. It wasn’t until we were together, coming up with new designs and collecting a closet full of vintage items, that we utilized Etsy as an outlet to sell.
What steps did you take to prepare for transitioning into full time Etsy selling?
When William and I met, I was living in San Francisco and he was working in the oil fields of West Texas. After ten months of long-distance dating, I decided to return back to Austin to be with him. The day before William flew to San Francisco to make the drive back with me, he was severely injured on the job. He was smashed by a steel pipe that broke his collarbone in two, but he made the trip with me anyhow. We returned to Austin where he was immediately scheduled for surgery. The idea that he might continue working in the oil fields was pretty much out the window at that point. In a sense, we had a clean slate.
Over the next few months, we each began working a couple of part-time jobs. I began working with my best friend, Christine (of fail jewelry) in her new Austin boutique, Schatzelein, helping with branding, marketing, and her online presence. With Christine’s encouragement and some key pieces that we were excited about, we opened our shop in May of 2011.
William and I thought it would be a fun way for us to be creative together and bring in a little bit of residual income. We had read a good amount of articles on the Etsy Blog about how to successfully market yourself, but hadn’t yet invested a huge amount of time to our shop. We were pleasantly surprised when we began getting a great response.
Over the next couple of months, we really focused in on our jewelry line, and opened a separate vintage shop. We had created quite a few more pieces, and were excited about our collection. In August, we suddenly saw a huge influx of attention, and our sales increased by 500%!
We were elated, but also inundated with orders and wholesale inquiries. As we caught up with ourselves, we considered that this might be a real and valid job for us, and an opportunity to work together creatively as a profession! It was a bit of a leap of faith, but we decided to go with it and focus on Son of a Sailor as our full-time endeavor. In September, we went all in.
What is your favorite part of the process in designing jewelry?
We love the feeling of creating something from nothing. To end up with a beautiful item that began as just a concept is exhilarating. William and I agree wholeheartedly that the best part of this whole thing is that we get to work together creatively on a daily basis. We appreciate and enjoy the volley, the debate, and the collaboration that ensues.
What are your best marketing tips?
Marketing is an interesting beast. You can’t force someone to take interest in your product. You can, however, start conversations with people that are interested in the same sorts of things that you are.
- We really feel that it’s just a matter of getting in front of like-minded people via social media and gatherings. For us, the all-important next step is participating in the conversation once you’re there.
- Networking with other Etsy sellers is incredibly valuable. Create treasuries, favorite other people’s items, create large circles, and join groups.
- In the same vein, get into the blogging/Facebooking/tweeting thing. These are all ways to learn about fantastic new things — and if you participate, other people will learn about your fantastic new things!
- And get out there! Sell at markets, go to fairs, participate in holiday bazaars. Getting real feedback from people live and in person is pretty valuable.
- We hear some folks question the successfulness of product giveaways, but we’ve done pretty well with them, so far. Even if we don’t see a tremendous amount of sales generated from a giveaway, we have spent enough time on the blog to know that we’re happy to have that audience’s attention for a time.
What’s been your most popular item or line to date?
Our most popular item has probably been our Pecos Handpainted Bracelet. I think people really respond to the assortment of colors and designs that we have created. Each of the Pecos bracelets has a different personality. We feel like they’re little works of art that you can wear and live in.
Made any business mistakes you regret?
The only business mistake we regret is not getting started any earlier!
What is the biggest challenge you face during your daily schedule?
William is a night owl, and I am constantly striving to be more of a morning person. This is the perfect recipe for a scheduling challenge! We’re learning how to balance our time, and that it’s alright for there to be an opener and a closer. During those overlap hours when we’re both going full-steam, the biggest challenge is time management. It’s cliche, but it’s true!
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
Owning your own business means that instead of working 40 hours for someone else, you’re working 80 hours for yourself. Marry that with no paid vacation and no benefits, and you’ve got yourself the hardest part, in our opinion!
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job?
If we want to, although we are trying not to do often, we can work all day in our jammies!
What is the most exciting thing that has come out of selling your designs through Etsy?
We were just approached at Renegade Holiday Fair by a gentleman who is an interior designer. He’s currently working on a restaurant just down the street from my friend’s boutique, and he told us that he was inspired by one of our necklaces. He saw our Geometric Slice necklace in Vintage Blue, and loved the shape and color combination. In his words, it inspired the entire theme of the decor of the restaurant. That’s one of the best compliments we can imagine!
What advice would you give someone considering a similar path?
Save every receipt you ever get. Ever.
What goals do you have in store for the future of your businesses?
I think William and I would both be perfectly happy finding a way to continue creating and making in a way that we can sustain ourselves. William has been creating a series of children’s books that he’ll write and illustrate, which we would both love to see come to fruition. If we can continue making, pay the mortgage and bills, and perhaps stuff a little bit of money away for things like a family and the occasional vacation, we’ll be pleased as punch.
Anything else you would like to share?
Etsy is a fantastic place to set sail and voyage into creative self-employment. Like they say in the Navy: “Let the Journey Begin.”
Thanks for sharing your story, Jessica and William. Check out their work in the Seller’s Items below.
149 comments
Sign in to add your ownMikono says:
wow, inspiring! Thanks for sharing your story! :)
1 year ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Great interview, I agree very inspiring! I think it is tough working for yourself, I remember reading once that you are your best employee and sometimes you need to remember to give yourself a break.
1 year ago
MoodyBags says:
What a wonderful profile, thank you for sharing your journey with us. Son Of A Sailor, your shop is beautiful, I also love your shop banner. Wishing you a fantastic 2012!
1 year ago
mamif says:
saving every receipt from now on!
1 year ago
TheHickoryTree says:
I love your advice about the receipts - that's dead on. Wonderful interview. Congrats on being featured .
1 year ago
agoodhome says:
Very cool story! Congrats on your success!
1 year ago
ModernVintageDesigns says:
What a great interview. Thanks for the marketing tips!
1 year ago
volkerwandering says:
What an inspiring, hard working couple you folks are! I love your eclectic vintage shop, and gorgeous jewelry! Keep up the great work!
1 year ago
Mattie714 says:
Amazing... More and more with these stories, I am wanting to venture into owning a shop of my own. Conragtulations on your sucess!
1 year ago
virginiaclara says:
I have been a big fan of your work for so long, it was so exciting to see you hear and read about your story! Thanks for sharing, and making beautiful inspiring things!
1 year ago
peacesofindigo says:
What an awesome shop~ Great interview and congrats to you both!!!
1 year ago
HouseOfMoss says:
Your story is so inspiring– thank you! And congratulations on your success!
1 year ago
NoFrump says:
Congrats on the article feature! I immediately recognized your pecos bracelets...I guess I've been eyeing them for awhile now. ;)
1 year ago
vintagejane says:
GREAT story......so inspiring. Love your style!!!
1 year ago
handprintlady says:
I am very interested to know why you say save receipts. I save all my receipts and my husband HATES it. I'm just ocd like that. But I really want to know what you use your receipts for.
1 year ago
japonicas says:
How inspiring! Good luck and have fun in doing what you love! :D
1 year ago
SucculentsGalore says:
You're not kidding about the 80 hour work week...been doing that for over 20 years. I wouldn't have it any other way though! This was a great interview and an inspiration to all that reads it. Best of luck to the 2 of you!!!
1 year ago
fantasygarden says:
This is inspiring story , it's so great that couple can do things together ....i wish you luck:)
1 year ago
RozemarijnOudejans says:
Very inspiring story, thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
NobleTextiles says:
Great story!
1 year ago
ABlindCat says:
So true. Quite inspiring, thanks. Good luck.
1 year ago
TheBloomingThread says:
Awesome! Saw your shop on paper n stitch with me! Great interview~
1 year ago
NicoAndMooMoo says:
how cool is being creative together?!?! I like all the WE WE WE statements. You are two lucky people. Keep working... together of course! :)
1 year ago
ConstantGalore says:
What a beautiful story and GREAT shops! Love love love to read articles like this!
1 year ago
sansmap says:
i totally {heart} your story...so inspiring, thank you so much for letting us peek into your world, and your shop is just lovely!!
1 year ago
yellowgrey says:
awesome! met you guys in austin, congrats!!!!
1 year ago
mikiheather says:
Your shop is very cool! I love how your travelling days influence your products!
1 year ago
mikiheather says:
I love how your travelling days influence your products!
1 year ago
CustardHeartVIntage says:
i just threw away a bunch of receipts the other day accidentally. i instantly had the exact same thought as you about saving every single one. anyway, just checked out your shop and its a new favorite. keep up the good work and continued success to you both.
1 year ago
UnionStudioMetals says:
Super cute shop, love your bracelets!
1 year ago
icing101 says:
So inspiring, great interview... love your shop!!!
1 year ago
KettleConfections says:
I love the designs of your leather bracelets- so simple and elegant!
1 year ago
TreasuresByUs says:
Very inspiring interview. A lot of Etsy totally agree with what I read here. Great shop btw. Happy holidays
1 year ago
HootieOwls says:
Love to hear how your shop just took off! Very exciting..keep up the good work! Your hard work is paying off!
1 year ago
pacificstonejewelry says:
What a great story! And so well told :) I very much enjoy your art and am inspired by what you've both accomplished. It's amazing to take that leap and go fully into your art! Congratulations :D
1 year ago
baygun says:
Thank you for a great article! You have inspired me to move forward in my venture with ETSY. I love the process of creating and decided in late October to give ETSY a try. It is still a little overwhelming, but I'm learning more of the process every day and have hope that it will be a successful venture for me. Thank you for your wonderful words and art.
1 year ago
Eternalelfcreations says:
thank you for sharing your story with us <3 I hope your husband also does well with his childrens books!
1 year ago
Talula says:
Excellent article! Especially being the Mother of a Sailor, and a jewelry designer myself (and a Native Texan)! Keep it weird Austin! Best wishes for continued success!
1 year ago
HibouCards says:
It's always helpful to hear from other Etsy sellers and you guys seem to really have a good business going on so congrats on your success and thanks for shadings your story and tips :) Hibou
1 year ago
dlkdesigns says:
What a lovely read! Congrats to you both :)
1 year ago
TheMaudePod says:
Love this story...and love your shop items! Congrats on the success.
1 year ago
KcSoapsNmore says:
Isn't that the truth! You do work so much longer and harder when it is for yourself-but worth it. Great article and congrats.......
1 year ago
rerunzvintageshop says:
Enjoyed.....this....1:)~Merry Christmas Mary/M.
1 year ago
FoxMountainWoods says:
Wow, quite a timeline for success. Good job!
1 year ago
tracedesigns says:
:) Wonderful Post! You're both so inspiring! Your work is fabulous! :)
1 year ago
driftforever says:
Congrats!!
1 year ago
houndsome says:
William you look like the great singer/songwriter William Fitzsimmons. Nice work you guys! Congrats!
1 year ago
jammerjewelry says:
Really enjoyed the article thanks for sharing.
1 year ago
HomeStudio says:
Love the 80 hr quote - so true! Great article. Congrats!
1 year ago
CountrySquirrelsRUS says:
Such an inspiring story, can't go wrong with working together to make something awesome. I did have to belt out a laugh on your saving receipts tidbit....so very true. Thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
metalicious says:
So great to see how well you overcame the adversity of the accident! Great job!
1 year ago
emwi says:
Love your bracelets! Great color choices for all of them.
1 year ago
oguerrero says:
I love reading these posts, It always inspires me to do more :)
1 year ago
lovejune says:
Very nice interview, I agree that the hardest part is keeping your focus while working unbelievably hard. I would also add that finding balance between work and play can be challenging. Love this shop, keep up the good work!
1 year ago
JKistlerStudios says:
Great story, thanks for sharing! So great that you can work together.
1 year ago
OsoVictoria says:
Fab story! And two lovely shops.
1 year ago
scandivintage says:
This is a great story to read in the midst of the Scandinavian winter - you brought me some sunshine! :)
1 year ago
SusanFaye says:
...I'm in my jammies right now! I agree that's one of the best perks of working out of your own home (even if you wind up with an 80 hour work week...). I just feel so lucky to have an income in this wonky economy and I'm also grateful to Etsy for providing such a great opportunity for creative self-employment!!
1 year ago
tknopp says:
Great write up! I know that the holidays are traditionally more about giving than receiving but my wife and I couldn't help ourselves after going to your shop. Keep making amazing art and jewelery and we'll keep buying it!
1 year ago
PomLove says:
very cool story. you guys sound so lovely. :) your bracelets are on my wishlist for christmas... fingers crossed!
1 year ago
TresChicNmodern says:
AWWWW SUCH BEAUTIFUL N UNIQUE BRACELETS!!!! I LUVVVV THEM!!!!!!!!!!
1 year ago
mphillips428 says:
As someone just starting a vintage shop on ETSY, I found this to be very inspiring. Thanks you so much for your honest and helpful answers! Also, your collection is beautiful. =)
1 year ago
KPlager says:
Good Luck!
1 year ago
RivalryTime says:
I love the stories in these posts.
1 year ago
peshka says:
So beautiful! Thanks for sharing
1 year ago
Starfishbaby says:
Thanks so much for sharing your story. I am new to etsy and have a dream to be successful like you two. Hope I can get there one day, still trying to find out how to market my works. Thanks for all the tips!
1 year ago
AlpineGypsy says:
Great spotlight ~ I love these perspectives, MORE MORE!!! Heidi
1 year ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
Great interview and you're right here in Texas. Thanks for all of the inspiration.
1 year ago
emleehandmade says:
so inspiring. thanks for sharing. and cute couple.
1 year ago
oldtimethreads says:
Lovely story! Thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
sonyarasi says:
Congratulations to your success! Very inspiring story.
1 year ago
ItchinStitchin says:
Great story!!! I also love your boots :)
1 year ago
HardlySimpleDesigns says:
Great read! Thanks for sharing! Congrats to both of you on the feature! :)
1 year ago
gardenmis says:
Beautiful interview! Best wishes for all your future dreams + more to come true :)
1 year ago
percivalroad says:
great interview!!! enjoyed reading that...all the best!!
1 year ago
elleestpetite says:
Wonderful story. Thanks for sharing.
1 year ago
wonderfulcotne says:
Thanks for the inspiring success story!
1 year ago
pickledogdesign says:
Great story! Best of luck for continued success! : ) We would love for you to check out our shop!
1 year ago
Braniel says:
So awesome:D inspirational!
1 year ago
honeyprint says:
Great story! I wish you continued success. :)
1 year ago
BeatificBijoux says:
"Save every receipt you ever get. Ever." = best piece of business advice, ever! Now if only I could follow it. LOL! Great feature, really sound down-to-earth tips. Wish you guys all the luck. Cheers!
1 year ago
TaylorArts says:
Like y'all, my husband and I are full-time artists living and working together day and night. It was inspiring to read your story. Sounds so true and so familiar. My husband used to work in the Texas oil fields, as well, before he became a full-time furniture maker. We also have had great success with wood painted fish that y'all would love being so ocean-oriented. Good luck with your ongoing adventure.
1 year ago
TaylorArts says:
P.S. I'm re-tweeting yourarticle @TheArtFarmer, since we know all too well how true the quote is about working 80 hours for yourself. Thanks.
1 year ago
urbanpetitedesigns says:
"Owning your own business means that instead of working 40 hours for someone else, you’re working 80 hours for yourself." So true!! I love your bracelets and great advice on keeping every receipt
1 year ago
wmalexalvarez says:
awesome!!! :)
1 year ago
SteveJaviel says:
Thats awesome, very inspiring! I hope to do the same. Steve
1 year ago
agreenangel says:
So true about the 80 hour work week! Lovely shop, keep up the good work!
1 year ago
JewelMeShop says:
Great shop and very inspiring story. Congrats!
1 year ago
Reneeloveandco says:
Love the leather bracelets, thanks for sharing your story.
1 year ago
HulaGirl1922 says:
now that's what I call a sweet voyage ♥ xoxoxox
1 year ago
BeadingByJenn says:
Great interview!! Thanks for sharing! I would love to be able run my shop full time and not need a day job. You are very blessed and an inspiration!! Good luck to you and all Etsians now and in the new year!!!!!!
1 year ago
PencilQuotes says:
I would love to quit my day job. Hopefully before the end of 2012. I love the jewelry that you make, very creative.
1 year ago
plataman says:
The 80 hour a week sums it all up. There's never a closed sign to the business that is running in my head. Love the son of a sailor action figures.
1 year ago
wickedpaper says:
Love their story! Thanks for the great interview.
1 year ago
sisforsupplies says:
Congratulations on your success!!!!!
1 year ago
Decaldecor says:
Awww my heroes! lol
1 year ago
cobylyn says:
One day this, my dream, will also become a reality! Thank you for sharing your story.
1 year ago
PickensFelting says:
I am ready to step off the bus.............Thank you for the inspiration!!
1 year ago
Mclovebuddy says:
love.
1 year ago
celysedrew says:
Reading this convinced me! IT IS POSSIBLE TO SUCCEED DOING WHAT YOU LOVE SO MUCH!! Thank you both for sharing this beautiful story of love, and love of your crafts! Together you both have achieved exactly what I am dreaming off... but.. uh...can I have a little help with my store (I just started today) =-)
1 year ago
Parachute425 says:
Great shop and well deserved feature. Continued success to you.
1 year ago
MODplayhouse says:
Congrats! I hope you both get to be pleased as punch! : )
1 year ago
robertcoffin says:
Thanks for the inspiration to continue.
1 year ago
needlenerd says:
inspirational, as many have said. thanks for sharing your story! congrats!
1 year ago
rockstarsz says:
Congratulations! You have an awesome shop and beautiful jewelry!
1 year ago
HAUSofNAHRIN says:
Thanks for sharing in this article. I feel so inspired now! CONGRATS on the FEATURE!!!! :)
1 year ago
littlegraypixel says:
Love you guys -- and your story is so inspiring. I hope to work for myself one day!
1 year ago
MrTrain says:
That is a wonderful story of success! Congratulations!
1 year ago
fuchsialove says:
These are the best sort of etsy stories - so inspiring! Thank you.
1 year ago
BanglewoodSupplies says:
I love the bracelets!
1 year ago
RedBirdMakes says:
Truly inspirational story. It's funny, the path that our lives lead... Embrace every opportunity with open arms! x
1 year ago
mazedasastoat says:
I've been self employed for about 16 years & my better half & I have a total of 5 different income streams including 3 businesses we run from home... & I can honestly say that saving receipts is a HUGE help when it comes to doing our incredibly complicated accounts! I can't imagine ever going back to a "normal" job, being shut inside on a glorious summer day, not being able to wear whatever I wanted or working in the daytime & sleeping at night. Being your own boss will mean you'll work harder than you ever have before, but it's probably more rewarding than any other form of employment. Don't give up people, you need to keep the dream alive in order to someday be able to live it.
1 year ago
40degN says:
Awesome story. Love your store!!! Congrats!
1 year ago
lindaketelhut says:
A wonderful feature. I Love your jewelry so it was especially nice to read about your journey. Congrats on all your success!
1 year ago
theroyal says:
oops. almost missed this one.. glad i caught it... great shop
1 year ago
HappyBonesArt says:
Great interview! Congrats!
1 year ago
PerpetualOne says:
love your style - thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
BeadGala says:
Great Interview!
1 year ago
onelonelyapricot says:
Great story and style! I love your designs.
1 year ago
lavenderandhoney says:
Inspiring!
1 year ago
deltamoonsoap says:
Thanks for sharing your story and insights. I think you guys compliment one another very nicely :-)
1 year ago
sandcanyonjewelry says:
Very cool! Congratulations!
1 year ago
JennysBaubles says:
Thanks for the encouraging info. especially on social networking. Congrats on your shop.
1 year ago
thoughtfullyadorned says:
Odessa Texas! That is where I work!!! Small World. What a great story-full of inspiration and interest!
1 year ago
lulusnest says:
Congrats on the feature! I love that you and your man get to work together! Merry Christmas too!!
1 year ago
shopdomestica says:
These two have my heart - that has to be one of the best QYDJ I've ever read. Such practical and matter-of-fact approach to seeing your creativity as a way to keep yourself fed and happy.
1 year ago
AuraRosesTreasures says:
Thanks for sharing your wonderful story.
1 year ago
MartiMaginnis says:
I so enjoyed reading your story.The information is so right on and timely. Thanks for taking the time to share.
1 year ago
FHOHA says:
I love this story ! I pray they become even more successful! as their business grows! :) I love ppl that inspire!
1 year ago
Alankaar says:
Great story and a cool shop. Congrats!
1 year ago
Laughingdogstudio says:
Great story, thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
shellypsoulcircles says:
What a wonderful start to your journey! Couldn't imagine a better place to be than Austin, TX either! All the very best to you both on the high seas of creativity!
1 year ago
HouseOfRouse says:
I love to read success stories! Thanks for sharing your journey, it's very inspirational. Continued success to you both.
1 year ago
ALadysBliss says:
This is truly inspiring, I recently opened my shop, but, I am still working a full time job and I support my household by myself. I hope I can devote more time to my etsy store in the near future! thank you for sharing your amazing story!
1 year ago
AsphaltAndMe says:
Great candid share! THanks for the motivations!!! Best of luck for continued success...
1 year ago
AZALEAstudio says:
Thanks for sharing your story!
1 year ago
bezaleljewels says:
Thank you. Great photos too!
1 year ago
angelawrightful says:
Just started my shop and found your story truly inspirational!
1 year ago
windykeene says:
I'm just getting started on etsy and really in creating my jewelry so this has been a huge encouragement to me. Thank you so much for sharing your story!
1 year ago
glusk says:
cute couple and cute store
1 year ago
snotbooger says:
aint that the truth fun i should set up shop back in the barn in northeast missouri again ya'll should check out my hardwood stuff that comes from real trees . it is art, furniture, vintage, permanent, a toy, a woodcraft a household must. oh yea- my mom(judith) gets credit for the carving of the heads and feet and direction in getting the shape right at critical points
1 year ago
ELDELAYMI says:
very inspiring story, congrats!
1 year ago
humblelovingsouls7 says:
Beautiful story and bracelets. I quit my day job today after 6 years of managing a men's underwear company. Its very freeing
1 year ago
gabbygailsgoodies says:
Congrats on your success! Very interesting story-thx for sharing it! :-)
1 year ago
CloudLoveBaby says:
Really enjoyed reading your story!
1 year ago
L2Country from L2Country says:
FUN Article!...TXS for sharing!..."L"
1 year ago
janineyordy from janineyordy says:
what a fun pair you two make- iloved the article and you inspire me to keep livin the dream :)
1 year ago
Ryan Miglinczy from thegoodpress says:
Really great to see…all the best!
1 year ago
anita from 13Penguins says:
You guys are ridiculously adorable..I wish you great success!
1 year ago