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Story by
marymary
Published on August 17, 2009 in Spotlight |
Photo by |
Madelynn, a.k.a. onegarnetgirl, started out selling on Etsy with dreams of the possibility of making one sale per month in addition to her regular day job. Madelynn's sales began to pick up soon after setting up her shop. The demand for her products came very quickly, and Madelynn began to realize her jewelry making business just might be a bigger opportunity than she originally thought. Over time, Madelynn transitioned into fewer and fewer hours at her regular day job as she began taking in enough money from her Etsy sales to pay the household bills. She's now successfully quit her job and runs her jewelry business full time; keep reading to find out her 10 tips for someone who might be thinking of doing the same.
How did you originally get into the business of making things?
My drive to create changed into a bonafide big-girl business when I started selling here. Like so many of us, I had been quilting, knitting and making jewelry for my friends and family. I hadn't tried to pursue selling work until about two years ago.
When you first started selling on Etsy, did you have dreams or goals of eventually quitting your day job?
Yessir! But it's the road less traveled, and I had no idea how to make it happen. I remember sitting on the kitchen counter one night and telling my husband that I may even be able to sell one piece a month! *Sigh* After about 2 months I began to consider, fleetingly, the possibilities of what my business could become. I was able to slowly cut back on working overnights during the first year.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
After a few months of selling, I realized I could start paying household bills with my Etsy income. I could justify cutting back my hours at work, so I got rid of my cell phone, my YMCA membership and started running outdoors instead, and looked for other ways to get rid of expenses. Get rid of your anchors so you can move forward — otherwise the stress of paying creditors will outweigh the joy of running your own ship. 
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
- Locally, I made up business cards and put them on every corkboard in town. I did home jewelry parties, advertised in three states on Craigslist. I advertised in the mini ads in our local paper. I bought from Etsy sellers and could tell anyone where to get the awesome candles (AuntieDis), kids wooden toys (WoodToyShop), and hand-painted portraits of my kids (christydekoning).
- Online, I read TONS of the advice and information available in the Forums. I am part of the Jewelry on Etsy Team (JETTEAM), and we do tons of promotion for each other on and offline. I also give a 10% off coupon to returning buyers every once in a while. Twitter, Flickr, Facebook, Craigslist, Trunkt — I've done all of those. I have advertised on websites dedicated to jewelry and blogs, too.
What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
The Promotions section in the Forums has been great for Team promotions because there are many hands keeping a thread alive. I haven't had as much luck doing a solo promotion in the Promotions forum.
Walk us through your typical workday.
- I respond to convos first thing in the morning, around 6:30.
- After a few cups of coffee and getting the kids off to preschool, I make a list of what I need to create for the day. I also have a running list of inventory and supplies to see if I need anything immediately. I renew something.
- Around 8:30 I start work and blast Motown on Pandora radio (it's free!). In the morning it's all Motown. I work, order supplies, answer convos, relist a second item around lunchtime. I solder, form, saw, file, polish, set stones, and clean, dry, package, write out mailing labels, stamp, write some thank yous and drive/walk/ride my bike to the post office by 5:30 p.m.
- My kids get home around 5 p.m. with my husband and they have dinner and then play for a little bit.
- On busy days I may be back out in the studio until 10 p.m., on a good day I am done at 5 and spend the rest of the night with my WONDERFUL (read: patient and understanding) husband and kids.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
Who doesn't want to set their own schedule? Not having to primp in the morning is really nice, and I get to spend more time with my kids. Gabriel (three years old) and and Violet (one and a half years old) are home with me three weekdays, so I feel lucky to have that time with them to do fun things and go berry picking when we feel like it. I don't have to drive my car to work, I don't have to spend time commuting, and I get to be in my nest and get dinner started at 3 p.m. if need be. That said...I miss leaving my house. I'm not so housebound that we need to worry about territorial barking if people walk by, but... the simple act of leaving the stress of kids/cleaning/yard work behind is nice. At work, I never had to walk by a pile of clothes that needed to be folded. Some days are easier to strike a balance between work/home than others. This is probably my biggest struggle as a mother/businesswoman.
What's the hardest part about running your own business?
To succeed, you really have to be everything and everyone. Designer, craftsman, salesman, office manager, shipping department, accounts payable, receivable, marketing and advertising, you name it.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
- Don't become too inventory heavy. Make sure to have your capital available and not tied up in materials (I opened a supply shop for my purchasing indiscretions).
- BUDGET. Time, money.
- RENEW! Even if you relist an item a day for a month you are talking about $6.00 a month and heightened visibility.
- Only make what you would buy.
- Don't cut corners and use the best materials.
- Clean shop. Every three months, go through and get rid of what isn't selling. If you don't want to continue making something, don't. Get rid of it.
- Evaluate your pricing, make sure you can pay yourself + taxes + household bills. Don't undersell your work.
- Keep on learning: take classes, try new techniques, and have fun!
- Connect with other sellers. Send them a convo. Ask questions. Make friends. Align yourself with good people!
- Exercise. It reduces stress.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I would like to continue to make jewelry that I love, working on new designs and meeting new people. I look forward to growing my brand, developing new styles. Professional pictures would be great.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Cheese alert:
Just a big thank you to the buyers and sellers who have helped me develop my business to this point. Thank you to the JETTEAM's support and friendship, and to my dear friend and jooray guru Metalicious, as well as Lori, Nicole, Tiffany, and the brilliant artists who fill the pages here. And thank you to ETSY for the opportunity of a lifetime.
Have your own questions to ask? Come on by and chat with her Monday, August 24th at 5 p.m. ET in Etsy's Virtual Labs.
You can see some of Madelynn's gorgeous jewelry in the Related Items below. Check out previous Quit Your Day Job posts here.
| Tags | being your own boss, business, full-time, JETTEAM, Jewelry, Motherhood, onegarnetgirl, Quit Your Day Job, sellers, selling, Spotlight, SPOTLIGHT, workflow, working |
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291 comments Login to add your own!
hippiejo74
1337art
TheBrassHussy
MyMoms
HarrietsHaven
Madelynn, you have absolutely gorgeous jewelry! Thanks for the tips and wonderful inspiration!
BargainHeadbands
beautiful pieces of jewelry! I love those rings :) thanks for sharing your story.
jeweledblossoms
Oh Madelynn, congrats! I've always admired your work. It's great to hear your story :)
workingforpeanuts
Thanks for your insight. Congrats on your beautiful work and business! (I second the advice about getting exercise. It's so tempting to keep working and not take care of ourselves.)
novadesigns
So inspiring! One day I will join you and do this full time :o)
adeetz
Oh my goodness!! I just bought the most beautiful engagement ring from you a month ago and have been LOVING it since I got it!! So glad to hear that you are doing great!
pamwares
I have had my eye on one of Madelynn's rings. They are so beautiful. Congrats to you!
BeadinBabe
EJPcreations
lavenderrabbit
doxallodesigns
Totally fabulous article! Thanks so much for sharing your inspiring experience! :)
Janice
Kaliza520
UkrainianTreasures
SimpleJoysPaperie
Adrianchristian
michon
Yay! I'm a big fan - gorgeous jewelry, and such a fun, sweet person too!
pinkbuffalo
Madelynn, I am so in awe of your amazing work. I've bopped in and out of your shop more times than I can count on both hands! I have a few of your rings hearted - your work is just exquisite. Thank you for letting us take a closer peek into your life. Keep up the beautiful work!
NorthviewJewels
I've been a fan of onegarnetgirl for a long time. Nice to see her featured :)
madebysam
Congratulations, Madelynn! You are so talent. Love all your rings.
shannonbatescreates
Very helpful and inspiring article. I love your work, Madelynn! Thanks for sharing!
alisonkelleydesigns
You're truly an inspiration, congratulations on your success!
3squares
Madelynn makes the most amazing, beautiful, fabulous (insert other similar adjectives here) rings, period. Each and every one is on my wish list :)
bluelala
TeardropTreasures
metalicious
Yay!!! Madelynn you are my hero. I'm so happy for your success! You inspire me to be a better person/jeweler/mom every day. Thank you for sharing your tips and story with the Etsy community.
RosemaryAlonso
I got one of her moon stacking ring sets for my graduation present from my sister after wanting it for so long. It is so much more beautiful in person and from what I expected, the quality is top notch! And I wear it just about every day. An awesome seller! Congrats for being featured!
beadsme
SharonFosterArt
Madelynn made me the most wonderful custom jewelry with a sunflower motif. I love it! and treasure it. And an amazing moonstone ring with my own moonstone.
What a wonderful seller to get a boost!
Karramandi
Fabulous interview. Thanks so much for the inspiration and motivation :)
Fairyfolk
Stunning creations! Very inspirational... thanks for sharing Madelynn's journey.
Blessings and magic.
virginiakraljevic
lovelygifts
Jealousydesign
SeaFindDesigns
AlexMetalArts
Thanks for sharing your experiences with us. As a newbie, I really appreciate the tips!
kasiablue
with every sale, I put aside some money to buy one of your ring sets....but truthfully, I'm not sure how to choose from all the goodies :) Great article and hooray for you!
4TheSparrowsNest
So helpful Madelynn, and thank you for sharing your wisdom too! I love this quote: "To succeed, you really have to be everything and everyone. Designer, craftsman, salesman, office manager, shipping department, accounts payable, receivable, marketing and advertising, you name it."
pinkytoeclothing
Fantastic jewelry, wonderful article and advice! As a newbie I just love reading these, so inspiring!
Jenifersfamilyjewels
Gorgeous jewelry, great article! Thanks for sharing it with us, marymary!
AdroitJewelers
ChloesRuffleButt
Congratulations! You make beautiful jewelry! Thank you for sharing with us.
sendinglovegallery
congratulations on this article and your success Madelynn/garnetgirl! You are a wonderful artist!
thebestvintage
beachhouseblues
I really love hearing about these success stories!!
Hard work, talent and determination!
shazzabeth
What a great article - and your beautiful jewellery deserves all the success it gets!
miasophia
malves1009
Great writeup for a talented artist, who features such lovely jewelry.
JewelryBySolange
WoW 1GG-CONGRATULATIONS!!! Youve given some great pointers and I loved reading more about the fabulous life of you!!!!
:0) Well done!
JKiyomi
CliqueDaCour
Congrats to your success...its always inspiring to hear these stories...great work!!
hoganfe
moonovermaize
What a beautiful shop you have! Thanks for sharing your story!
fatfacecreations
elisasherejewelry
How cool!!! Congrats on the feature and on being a full time jeweler.
chewiemonster
great jewelry, and inspiring article. what great solid clear advice given too! thanks so much for sharing.
birdie1
revelry
Your jewelry is AH-mazing! You have a beautiful shop. What an inspiring interview because I totally relate to all the domestic stuff as I work out of my home, too. It's always comforting to hear similar stories!
silken
abacusbeadcreations
Wonderful article about a fabulous jewelry-maker!! Congratulations onegarnetgirl!!! Your jewelry is amazing!
wingbysea
stunning work! inspirational, and just lovely to read about too. thanks for sharing your story!
1AEON
JemmDeeCreations
Wow, your work is impressive. You've done what most of us are dreaming about. Live from our creations. Congratulations!
Candies64
Thanks for sharing a little bit of your life with everyone! Great article, awesome jewelry, wonderful inspiration! Thank you:) candice
skycreation
BranchandBirdie
Lots of good advice! Thank you, and beautiful lovely work!
zebracakes
IcingOnTheCupcake
cooljewelrydesign
Madelynn 1GG,
So happy to see this article. Wonderful to know that this is achievable and how it has affected your life and that of your family. It's always a treat to see what you will come up with next--my recent fave is your Brown Sugar ring.
Best,
coolie
breadandroses
J2Jewelry
Your workshop is frakking spotless! How??? Amazing! (and your pieces are absolutely beautiful...)
lilyomay
Love your work! More power to you! Thank you so much for the tips...
love,
Lily
MarKhed
wow this article is so inspiring for me! I just lost my job, and am thinking of actually concentrating on my etsy shop. thanks for the inspiration and hope you give all of us jewelry makers.
Geminimoondesigns
I've had a ring of yours in my favorites for months! It's so nice to succeeding in your craft and is especially inspiring to an aspiring artist myself.. "We can never stop learning"
peace,
Katharine
thesweetbox
I really enjoyed this article. I started selling on here recently & am at the one sale a month point myself **LOL** hopefully it will pickup soon!
onegarnetgirl
Wow! Thank you guys so much for your AWESOME words. I can't tell you how heart warming it is to see such kind wished from people I know and DON'T know! We can do this, just put yourself out there!
As for my studio.... Well you know a girl has to primp before she goes on a date ;) I cleaned the dickens out of it for you guys ;)
THANK you again ETSIANS!
apiecebydenise
I LOVE your jewelry!!! Great article, thanks for sharing :)
vandiva
OneGarnetGirl, I think I can speak for the entire JET Team - we all love you! You're our hero. Keep up the awesome work.
photoamato
How awesome to see this wonderful article about you! I sent my garnets to you last week and am anxiously awaiting the custom stacking rings you're making for me.
byMasselyn
Yay...Madelynn is in the spotlight where she belongs.
I love ya dear, and your jewelry inspired me to buy my torch (yeah, remember that!). Shame though that I am too scared to turn the darn thing on, but just know that you were my inspiration (and still are).
Rock (Love) on!
bogARTstudiogallery
shizendesigns
"Get rid of your anchors so you can move forward" - that is SO true. I've always loved your jewelry on Etsy. Now I love *you* for being such a cool gal!!
UglyBaby
So inspiring -- and I was just thinking this morning at the gym..."why do I need to pay $100 a month to walk on a treadmill...maybe I should just walk OUTSIDE."
cinnamonsticks
So encouraging Madelynn! Thanks for sharing with us all :O)
jbeaudet
How inspiring! Thanks for all the great advice and congratulations on your success! You really have beautiful jewelry!!
capitalcitycrafts
Super article about a super creative jeweler and lovely person! thanks for sharing!
pocketcarnival
I read all the Quit Your Day Job articles, but I particularly enjoyed this one... it seems that Madelynn's been working really very hard and it's paying off. So hurrah for Madelynn!
Thoughts
Great article and unique, and elegant jewelry.
Tiffany's Mom - Yolanda
EmotionalOasis
TuscanBlooms
This is such an inspiration!!!! You go girl!!! Your stuff rocks!!! Keep making beautiful work!!
CarolynMackin
Thanks for the inspiration- you painted a very clear picture of how you balance motherhood and business success!
ALittleLuxe
Wow - what an inspiration - it's nice to know there is room out there for us jewelry designers! Best of luck!
hollygems
Great article and advice. I'm a huge fan of your wonderful work! I want one of your rings on every finger :)
SatinDollCo
Congrats,Madelynn!!! Great writeup that features a great artist and jewelry.
2greyhounds
I have two favorite sellers on Etsy and Maddie is one of them. Not only is she a super talented jewelry artist, she's an awesome person. Her jewelry is yummy like candy. After you buy one piece you'll want more. Trust me, she's that good.
FlanneryCrane
odiliafu
MesaBlue
ShellyFrancesMakeup
dlkdesigns
tinycharm
YektahDesigns
beyondtherockz
Wonderful feature, marymary!
Congratulations, Madelynn - - you inspire!
pinkveggie
Yes, onegarnetgirl...I am a HUGE fan! Especially of the gorgeous Ballerina Ring...which I still have a photo of. Thanks for inspiring us!
papermichelle
Love the feature! As always, onegarnetgirl's work is gorgeous and inspiring. I'm a big fan. Congratulations!!
EAGems
DueSorelle
nothingcantopit
You do such nice work that it's easy to see why it took over your day job. You have really inspired me. I am so glad that you are sucessful. I can just imagine you working to Motown. Maybe I should try that!
stonz
Wow. Inspiring. And such beautiful work!
Thanks for sharing your story...
JulieHoogDesigns
What a wonderful success story! I love all of your advice in your article; thank you!
:)
oddestbird
I hope to find the same success that you have. Your work is lovely and your story is an inspiration to us all.
GrandmaMarilynsToo
Congratulations on your success. It is so much fun being on the JET Team with you.
phinson
It was nice to hear a success story someone juggling children, husband, and housework like I am. It sure beats that 1 hour drive to work every day, and the delight of raising our children and doing something we love. What a blessing!
Enuwbe
Sounds like an amazingly driven girl! Congrats on all the success!
christinakober
thank you so much for sharing. so inspiring! and what beautiful work. congratulations on your success.
BlueJenOnline
Hope I can someday be a success like you. Your story was inspiring.
StephieMc
somsstudiosupplies
Wow! What gorgeous jewelry! Heartiest Congratulations!
mLindvall
I love your work, Madelynn...and Congratulate you on your success!
OliviaClare
Wow, congrats!!! Can't wait for my mom's ring I ordered her :)
Marajoyce
How you have grown!!! Jeez- all that in a year or so...
Amazing and gorgeous work!
PoorRobot
lazydayz
terimoorelampwork
Wow! Your jewelry is so beautiful! I loved the article, took notes, and hope it will help me to grow my business.
CONGRATULATIONS!!
thepinkcamellia
101BestBeads
What a wonderful dream your living. Your work is absolutely beautiful. Congratulations on your success...and keep on!
ayawedding
halloweentowne
friedasophie
sandali
WOW ~~ I absolutely LOVE to hear these stories -- one of these days I will be in the same boat -- HOERA !!!
You have an amazing shop Madelynn -- I love all your variety of stones ~~ Happy Days ;)
evihan
louisel
Fab jewellery. Very inspiring, Thanks. Makes me want to get to my jewellery bench right now!
ovgilliesdesigns
Great jewellery/shop/person/inspiration! Congrats on the success!xo
poppyeater
istiferet
your jewelry is beautiful! I wish I could buy it all! Very inspiring story too, I love it! :)
Beadix
ErikaPrice
Many congratulations on all your well-deserved success Madelynn!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fantastic article - you're extremely talented and an inspiration to us all. Oh, and I just LOVE your work too - one day I hope to commission my own 1GG original!!!
NanMoon
rolanddesigns
pearlatplay
cleobelle
legacylinens
Congratulations on your successful shop and inspiring story!
BabbidgePatch
QuiteContrary2
KIMMSMITH
Congratulations to you on your success. Your jewelry is beautiful and your story was very inspiring. Good Luck for the future too.
RomDesigns
Navare
What an inspiring story! And I'm proud to belong to the JetTeam as well!
sunbasilgarden
What an wonderful story! Thanks so much for sharing it with us. Loved your comments on inventory and cancelling cell phones, etc. Keep up the beautiful work and keep having fun!
emmieloustudios
Your work is beautiful - congratulations on your success!
wireddesign
GatheringSplendor
Awwww-- Just the what I needed to get me going this morning. Thanks so much--wonderful to know there may yet be a light at the end of the tunnel.
lucie39
great article and great artist!Love your work~continued success in what you do:)
amarshall
I have yet to splurge on a piece of 'grown up' jewelry from onegarnetgirl but I've been eying this shop for the longest. Maybe for my b-day in January, which means my birth stone is garnet. =)
loriebsboutique
Great shop! Congrats on your success! Thanks too for sharing your tips!
greeneyedsoul
Thank you so much for your inspirational story!! Beautiful work :)
ClutchThat
mothermoongems
You make the most beautiful creations. The magpie in me is all aflutter over your shinies! Congrats on your continued success! :)
SusanKJewelry
so nice to read about others' success. continued success in the future!
mazedasastoat
Great stuff Madelynn! So nice to know your workshop isn't that clean 7 tidy all the time! :-)
And can I just say... you look Great, way too young to have a husband, two children AND a successful business!
onegarnetgirl
Bwwwaaaaaah mazedasastoat. Yo u are a funny lady! I'm PLENTY old enough, believe me- feeling it more and more each day ;)
Thank you GUYS for all or your kind words!
kimmchi
It was so wonderful to get to meet you and see your STUNNING jewelry in person down in Philly! What a great read - you go girl!
MeowBarkArt
Beautifully inventive jewelry... and great advice, especially remembering to exercise- it's such a great stress-reliever. Best wishes for you Madelynn!
BeadsInTheBelfry
great article! Congrats Madelynn and thanks for wonderful and realistic tips!
PhineasandLou
MelroseFields
BlackStar
Beautiful work and wonderful article! I love this line:
'Get rid of your anchors so you can move forward'
Here's to continued success~
monkeyandsquirrel
great work and wonderful tips! thanks tons for sharing :)
blackrockdesign
Wow, your story is so inspiring. While I'll probably never make it to your level of professional success, I know that some of your tips will help me and come in handy. Thank you for sharing!
CathyMcKeighanDesign
Congrats on your success!! Beautiful work. I hope to be in your shoes soon!!!
CathyMcKeighanDesign
Congrats on your success!! Beautiful work. I hope to be in your shoes soon!!!
DesignByDanaJewelry
Absolutely beautiful creations! Lots of talent there! I've been up and running since July 30, 2009 when I listed my first item. I't is almost a month since then and I've only sold 3 pieces (yes, I'm impatient). My business cards should be here today. I will follow the advice in the article and put them up everywhere! Thanks for the article it was so helpful. Peace, Dana
BlingFaktory
I found your story and creations incredibly inspirational being so new to etsy myself...a sincere thank you!
beachbumzlady
Awesome jewelry!! Thanks for encouraging me to keep following my heart/dream!!
jessitaylor
Aurorarose
I would LOVE to be able to go full time making my hair accessories and jewelry... maybe one day! very inspirational article!
GreenTease
Great shop! Nice to know it can happen! Since I still haven't found a job! I'll Keep pluggin away at the cloths!
laughtillyoucry
You sound like me, Maybe this could happen! I love the idea of having a shop that is open 24 hours.
KalliopeJewelry
Gorgeous work! Best of luck to you for continued success!
fabrictrimetc
WearableByDesign
As a fellow JET member, I can say with authority that Madelynn is an all around super person whose an awesome and inspiring artists. Congratulations to you on this fabulous feature! Your moment in the sun is well deserved!!
BlueTerracotta
shabbyandchic
Jewelry24Seven
Madelynn is a fabulous JET member. We're all very happy she's getting the attention she so richly deserves!
bklynstitch
tinacdesigns
Your jewelry is beautiful! Thanks for the great advice and congratulations on your success! You're living the dream.
Selkiemoonlight
So glad to see you in this series! I've loved every ring I've ordered from you, and hope to get more soon! Your success is well deserved!
steinschmuckdesign
Wonderful Jewelry and a lovely
interview, wish you all the best!
mishmishmarket
We're kindred spirits! Your voice and tone and approach really resonates. Learning more everyday about balancing family and work. Looks like you're living the dream! bravo. and your work is wonderful. thanks for the interview xox
AmandaJones
Lovely items. The flapper necklace and the rings really caught my eye. Congrats on your success!
Jmszito
I admire your focus. I think I speak for many etsy artists, we can be a bit scatttered and need the kind of focus you have managed to achieve. Bravo!
madambeadjunkie
Thanks for such a great article! And for sharing this wonderful artists story with us.
SkateDogStudios
What a fantastic article, I just started my etsy shop and your story is the kind that keeps me going!
miznovember
Your shop has always been one of my favorites. and I must say that your photos are fabulous already.
bluerthanblue
Your advice is DEAD ON! Thanks so much for taking the time to share with us.
jFrancesDesign
Madelynn, I have been waiting for your interview. Your shop is one of my all time favorites, and I may be asking for one of your rings for Christmas or my birthday. Your color combinations are always exquisite.
kmcch6
Madelynn made the most beautiful staking topaz rings out of my grandmother's
original ring. I absolutely love them and wear them everyday. Congratulations, Madelynn! You do beautiful work.
jodieflowers
One craft I have always wanted to try my hand at! Awesome rings and wonderful shop!!
aprilfoss
mbrignall
I highly recommend One Garnet Girl! She did 2 custom rings for me and they are gorgeous!
LHogan
I love your stuff- so much that I have sent many links to my boyfriend! Your interview is great! Really admirable! Well done with your success!
kitschcafe
i'm so in awe of all these "quit your day job" articles. i found myself without a day job in april and now have to make my etsy shop work to supplement living off my savings. these articles keep me moving when things look grim or it's hard to move on.
thanks for the inspiration!
KaurFunktion
You have such a beautiful store :) Very inspiring and innvovative :)
beadstylin
You are a true talent! Every time I see your work, it is so recognizable as yours. I love everything I see. Congrats!!
WrappedInLuxury
beautiful person, beautiful article, beautiful jewelry!!!! Thank you for the wonderful insight, I will post it to my wall for daily inspiration :)
annashoub
imontoya
I love how these stories always come at the time i need a little boost! Thank for sharing. Lovely work and great advice!
loriken214
Congratulations Maddy!!! I am SO proud of all you have accomplished and I'm SO glad to have found you. All of your precious creations are amazing, unique and skillfully crafted....each and every one of mine are treasures that I enjoy beyond compare. I've lost count of the many stacking rings, and other pretties, that I've ordered from you...just know that I'll be back for many more, I'm addicted to them, and there is no end in sight for me!
Love you,
Lori
MeghanT
Awesome interview. Very inspiring! Madelynn, I am curious about your background! Did you study jewelry design or are you self taught? Your work is beautiful. Thanks for sharing your story with us.
ThimbleNest
ShugaRose
That70sShoppe
Thanks for sharing all the great information. So inspirational.
leatherprince
Congratulations on your success! Beauiful design!! Thank you for sharing your story!!
theweddingcontessa
Thanks for the insight! Continued good luck in your business!
FluteTeacher
linsjewelbox
great tips Madelynn! Hope to be like u one day and be me own boss!
terrysjewelry
I was just thinking 'how clean you shop is' and then I scrolled through the comments! LOL I would have to bulldoze for a shop photo. Thanks for all the extra work and the helpful comments. How long did your shop stay so clean?
onegarnetgirl
Thank you again everyone! You seriously made my day ;)
MeghanT I am self taught, but now I can afford all of those classes, and I've taken four classes now. That's made a huge impact.
Bunnys
Good article and will make use of the advise :). Thank you so much for sharing.
artsyfingers
SamadhiBodyProducts
TwentySecondStreet
Great article and tips! You have a beautiful product line!
Thank you!
gilstrapdesigns
A really good article and you have very beautiful jewelry.
Thanks Madelynn for sharing this very inspiring article with us.
rswilsonjewelry
2TrickPony
I enjoyed this article and the advice, especially about convoing other jewelers, something I have been shy to do on etsy. Beautiful work♥
pascalepetit
Tessyla
Awesome jewelry! Congrats on your success and best of luck in the future!
wristcandycreations
Your pieces are impossibly gorgeous! Thank you for sharing your story and wisdom!
SimpleTraditions
woolpearls
BigSkyDreamer
Madelynn ~ Hurray for you. Your work is beautiful and your information is valuable. Thank You. My passion is designing jewelry, mostly off loom. I will continue to watch your shop and have you checked as a favorite. beej
slumptown
Great article. Thanks for you inspiration and best luck on your future endeavors. Your work is beautiful.
OwlandMouse
InVincibleDesigns
Reading these articles are great inspiration to keep trying even though sales are low. Many thanks.
CecilysRags
TopsailWinds
i strive to be as successful as you one day! how amazing! congratulations and keep up all your hard work and dedication! you most certainly deserve it!
VixVintage
Nicollie
VeryCarey
I love your philosophy to "Get rid of your anchors so you can move forward — otherwise the stress of paying creditors will outweigh the joy of running your own ship". Move over world, I have things to create!! And I also appreciate your advise to take care of yourself - exercise. Your jewelry is gorgeous. Thanks for sharing.
bijouxmadeleine
"Get rid of your anchors so you can move forward..." I absolutely LOVE that! Great advice for everyone. Gorgeous jewelry as well. Thanks for the inspiration.
soule
Hobbyzu
beyondyonder
Lazada
I am a new seller and new to making jewelry. Thank you for your candid advice. Love you work and congrats on your success!!
BlueCrushBeads
Your work is so beautiful...rich with color.
Every piece of jewelry is perfect!
Thanks for the fantastic advise!!
MimilaRose
Wonderful and very inspiring article.
Your jewelry is absolutely beautiful.
Thanks for sharing!
kdolldesigns
Beautiful work and a very inspiring to read how you have accomplished your goals! I love the colors and stones you use in your work
greeneyedbutterfly
You should be so proud to be able to have accomplished so much while being a Mom and Wife, I know it's not easy. Your jewelry is sooo beautiful. Keep up the good work.
KahiliCreations
I am still in love with my Star Light, Star Bright ring. Nice to know the person who made it!
AzitasSurprises
ForYouDesigns
Thanks for the inspirational insight - and your jewellery is divine!
thelittlereddoor
littlemustardseeds
Hi Madelynn
You have encouraged me lots on doing what we love to do full-time.. your jewellery is awesome! :o) All the best!
Mystiquebijoux
Thank you Madelynn, that was so helpful and inspiring! It really encourages me to pursue this dream of mine.
Your pieces are soft, colourful and sophisticated.
Congratulations! ;-)
fabriclady
Thank you Madelynn, your article was just the kick in the rear that I needed to get going. I'm hoping to stay retired by selling on various sites. I love your jewelry and positive approach to your business.
Wishing you continued success!
druizgjg
lovinclaydolls
Thank you for sharing your inspiring story Madelynn! As a mom of 5 I especially relate to the part about balancing working at home with housework/being a mom. I have walked by LOTS of laundry piles who were calling out to me, dishes too!!LOL
JulieEllynDesigns
I am so happy that I came across this article. New to Etsy, I am just starting to delve into the amazing opportunities of the site.
Thank you so much for your insite and inspiration.
smiledesigns
You are an inspiration to me - I cannot wait to have a schedule like yours and I know it is achievable. Thank you and your jewelry is unbelievably gorgeous!
theangrystitchers
I am so happy everytime I wear the beautiful rings that you made...you are definately an amazing artist!
artigianajewellery
As a newbie to Etsy I found this article really inspiring - thank you very much!
mazzoni
Enjoyed your story...thanks for sharing...your work is beautiful.
dorijenn
As a mother and Etsy seller (and buyer) I find your story inspirational! Thanks and good luck for ongoing success!!
michellearnold
real solid advice for preparing - cutting bills, budgeting, etc. great work!
dsenyo
Gosh! What beautiful work you do. Thanks for the encouragement to get involved in the Etsy community.
SuZefashion
Thanks for sharing about your road to success. It is very helpful to hear from fellow sellers and learn from each other. I love your jewelry, it is so beautiful!
Uniqueartglass
ArtMadeByTammy
Congrats, Madelynn! Your work is Amazing! You are such an inspiration to us JETs and Etsy.
smilingbluedog
Great stuff Madelynn!
Your work is lovely and your advice is solid.
Very inspiring.
starrybluesky
Congrats ! Your work has been at the top of my favourites since I first discovered Etsy . So ,lovely to read the interview with you ~ hope you go from strength to strength !
Best wishes,
Rhiannon
cartwheel
I am about to start a silversmith course and you have given me the motivation to learn and develop my jewelery skills. Thank you.
p.s make sure you remember to fit in a solid meal in your busy day!!
jennifermagnesi
modernfigurative
I can tell by the number of comments and what people have said in them that others are just as impressed as I am in this Etsy seller. Great balance of self confidence, with support of others! Her product is beautiful, and so is she!
Yayahandicraft
Your interview is fantastic. Thank you for all your secrets.
Your work is totally fantastic.
janeheller
underoakstudios
Love it! Beautiful stuff and I'm just drooling over your workspace.
FabFindsVintage
I'm so happy for you! Great job living the life that you want to live!!!
InHonorOf
Love your work. Love your input. I have a son named Gabriel too that I am working hard to stay at home with:)
kennafoster
What a GREAT interview! And such incredible craftsmanship in her gorgeous creations! Found a few new faves to drool over!!
valkasinskas
MetalTaboo
The best and most important part of this whole interview is the tidbit about not underselling your work. More artists should listen to that! Great jewelry and interview from this gal ;)
agreensleeve
Inspirational, thanks for sharing your story. Beautiful work, BTW.
tanglesastangled
sign. I love these articles soooo much. they help me to work harder and harder. Thanks so much!
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