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Story by
marymary
Published on May 18, 2009 in Spotlight |
Photo by |
Aja of Sagittariusgallery will tell you she's got a fiery personality and runs a tight ship — qualities that ring true to her Sagittarius identity. She has known all along that she wanted to make a living through her art and has held tight to that dream through thick and thin in order to make it happen. Aja now successfully supports herself and her family through her Etsy shop and still has time to paint nearly every day. Keep reading to learn Aja's Etsy marketing secrets and what advice she'd give herself if she could go back in time!
How did you originally get into the business of making things?
I've always made things. I know how cliché that sounds: “Oh, when did you become an artist?” “Well, I've been painting since I was in the womb!” But really, I've always been creative, and I always believed I'd translate it one day into a career. I was always the girl drawing people in class rather than taking notes. I knew what I wanted to do with my life.
As a senior in high school, I became insanely disenchanted with the lack of support for those wishing to pursue creative fields. As the school board was finalizing their plans to build a third gym, we art students were running out of paper and had to use the backs of completed creations while bringing paint from home. I started painting the school: first a ceiling tile in the art room, next a window looking out to the hall. The Vice Principal took notice and asked me to paint a large bay window separating his office from the main office. I gladly accepted the challenge and spent the next few months on the project.
One day I ran out of paint. I squeezed one of the last tubes of acrylic dry and realized, as they were bustling about preparing for the gymnasium addition, that I couldn't stay. I told the VP after I was done with the mural I wouldn't be back, and I kept my word. I know that might sound silly and short sighted, but the day I left, I knew I was going to make it regardless. Two months later I attended a portfolio review at the local college and was accepted on the spot. That was really the beginning of my personal quest to make it as an artist.
Tell us about when you first quit your day job and where Etsy fits into that timeline.
I actually already had. I quit my job in February of 2003 when I was 5 months pregnant with my little guy. I was in college and was burning the candle at both ends — full-time college student waiting tables at a local restaurant whilst my belly swelled, and I slowly started to realize all of that was not going to work. I started selling my work on eBay and did pretty well there, but the fees were insane. I mean, one month my fees were more than our rent. It might have said I was a silver powerseller over there, but that means little if you're paying out more than half of that between fees and general business expenses (paints, canvas, shipping supplies, etc.). I had thought it wasn't such a bad thing at the time because we had two incomes and I was feeling my way around my new venture.
Then, in early 2005, my son was diagnosed with autism. There was a huge change in the family dynamic... Things hadn't been going so well for my son's father and I, so in late 2005 we split up, and I found myself alone. It was all squarely on my shoulders for the first time in my life, and I had a two year old to care for and no steady paycheck. Talk about struggle. We ended up in a one bedroom apartment in a nasty part of the city, my son occupying the only bedroom while I set up camp in the livingroom. Those were supremely hard times. I didn't even have a phone for a month and had to walk down to this biker bar at the end of the road to use the pay phone. Luckily, my landlord liked my work, so for a while we traded art for rent.
At the same time I was trying my hand at getting into a gallery in the Hamptons. The owner of the gallery was extremely helpful and encouraging and paid ahead for artwork to be shown in the gallery. I even sold my car for a pittance to be able to pay a month's worth of bills. When I could no longer afford to purchase supplies to create new paintings, I was forced to admit to myself — and the gallery owner — that I wasn't able to guarantee new work for an approaching solo show. We parted ways. I couldn't keep going on like that anymore. I wasn't going to be able to survive much longer and something had to change.
Then, around Christmas 2006 on the eBay message boards, I read about a relatively new site. The site was Etsy, and there was a lot of buzz around it in the art community. Many questioned its viability. I figured I didn't have anything to lose by giving it a try. Within two days of signing up I sold a $200.00 painting and was able to pay my utilities for the month. It was the first sign of hope I had in nearly two years. With that one single sale I realized it was possible. There was something to Etsy, and I needed to make it work.
Did you do anything to prepare ahead of time?
Honestly? No. It was a sink or swim situation. eBay wasn't working for me – too many fees, too many issues. I simply couldn't afford to be “successful” there. I opened my shop here in January of 2007 and felt like such a n00b. I mean, I'd been selling online for a while, but this was unfamiliar territory for me — it felt like I was starting over. So, I dove into the Forums to learn everything I could about Etsy. I already knew how to sell my work, but every venue is different, and I feel one should really know the venue through which they choose to do business.
What are the most effective ways you have promoted and marketed your Etsy business? What's your best marketing tip?
I can't stress enough how important it is for business owners to figure out their target audience and promote their businesses directly to them. This summer I have print ads in American Art Collector with the Artist Collective started by AndyMathis, as well as the summer long print ad in ArtNEWS. I also purchased an ad in Modish, so I have covered both online and print promotion. Some of these ads overlap, but the entire plan stretches out through the summer, when I can start marketing for the Christmas season.
My number one tip is visibility. Always ensure you are in the public eye so you are never far from their mind. I am a big believer in relisting, renewing, and ensuring the shop is constantly updated and fresh. [NOTE: Search is an evolving feature on Etsy's growing marketplace. Find out more here.]
I know that as an Etsy shopper I stalk quite a few shops, and some of them only update say, every week or so. I make sure that there's always something brand new at least every other day, if not daily. I update my customers in my shop announcement every single day about what's going on. I even put a time on the update. Sometimes I'll update a few times in a day. I've been told by a few customers they really appreciate knowing what's up — it keeps them coming back daily because there's always something going on in my shop. It's not just about enticing new buyers — it's about keeping loyal patrons coming back for more!
What have you found to be an unsuccessful promotion?
- Sticking strictly to Etsy and advertising within “the box.” For me, it's all about bringing people directly to my shop, and as I mentioned previously, I need to budget my time and energy accordingly into those avenues that will produce the most viable traffic to my shop. This requires stepping away from Etsy and finding new pools of patrons who might not necessarily know about Etsy. This provides a benefit not only to myself, but the community as a whole — as I bring traffic directly to my shop that has been essentially handpicked, they have the opportunity to then browse the website and find all of the other amazing sellers in the community.
- I feel it's counterproductive to advertise to those already on Etsy (i.e., Showcase). I know the Showcase works for some people, but I find it to be too varied and unpredictable. I feel the same way about the Promotions Forum. Some people spend a ton of time in the Promos Forum, and for them it might be worthwhile — but for me, a fine artist selling work within a certain price point that is generally above an “impulse purchase,” I have to work hard at bringing my target audience directly to me.
- That said, I do always try new promotional opportunities to see firsthand if they offer any results, like the new Subcategory Art Showcase. I'm giving that a go and we'll see how it goes. I'll spend the seven bucks and closely monitor views on the selected work to show up first in the Showcase scroll box. Then I will determine if investing any more advertisement money toward that particular promotional tool is wise. I am not opposed to changing my approach to promotion of my work on a whim — it's best to see for one's self what works for their own business. As they say, individual results may vary.
- I will say to those who spam their links everywhere — please, please, please don't do that. It only alienates your potential customer base and is nowhere near an effective promotional tool.
Walk us through your typical workday.
- I wake up at around 7:30a.m. or so and get my little one up and off to school. After a coffee run I come back, check my emails and convos, and then start figuring out my plans for the day.
- I ship twice a week or so, so if it's a shipping day, I get started on packing my items for shipment and put them out front for the postal carrier to pick up. (Note: It's awesome not having to run to the post — utilize courier pick up and PayPal shipping!) If it's not a shipping day, I either hang out a bit in the Forums or get right into the studio and start painting.
- Once I get into the swing of things, seated, palette knife in hand, idea ready to materialize on the canvas before me, I can be there for hours without even getting up. I'm obsessive about it. Right now I am wishing I was working on this piece screaming for me from the studio.
- I paint the day away, usually with my headphones on blasting music into my ears so it's just me, the canvas and paint, and the music.
- At 2p.m. I pull myself away for a bit. My sis works at the bank up the road, and she comes for lunch often. It's a welcome break.
- After she leaves, I usually clean up and prepare for my little one to get home at 4pm.
- Then it's all about homework and playtime, hubby arriving home at 5p.m., dinner, cleaning, and then some TV before bed, which is anywhere from 10 till midnight on a typical day.
- I don't have a hard and fast schedule set in stone. Things change. Some days I don't paint at all (that's not often, mind you), but some days I get involved in cleaning or have to run a million and a half errands. But the next day I work twice as hard in the studio.
What do you enjoy most about not having a day job? Is there anything you miss?
I am a bit of a control freak (smooches to the hubby for being so understanding, haha!), so being my own boss suits me quite well. I also must confess to loathing being told exactly what to do and when to do it, especially if I think there's a better way of doing something. I know how that sounds, but it's true. I'm a Sagittarius, as the business implies. I'm pretty fiery.
The only thing I miss is the guarantee of a steady paycheck. Being in business for yourself you are solely in charge of your success. If you don't make a sale, you don't eat. It's always in the back of my mind that my next sale could be my last for a while — it drives me to stay in the forefront, to be as motivated and ambitious as possible, to think outside the box.
What's the hardest part about running your own business?
See above. Really, as much as I thrive when everything is on my shoulders, it can really wear one down. Maintaining that balance between business, family, and personal time is most definitely a challenge. The other night I was cooking a huge ham with homemade mashed potatoes while I was packing items for shipment for the next day. Constant multitasking. I really need to learn to ask for help when I need it and take a break when it gets to be too much.
Running your own business is a 24-7 endeavor. I had to go away for a funeral, and as soon as we got back to the hotel, there I was, checking my email and convos and responding to someone about a custom order. My husband would probably say the hardest part is I don't know how to turn it off. I wake up at 3a.m. and check my email. It's really bad. Apparently I am a very demanding boss...though again, I wouldn't have it any other way.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself? What advice would you give someone else?
You are in charge of your own destiny. Don't rely on anyone else for your success. Don't blame anyone else for your failure. Believe in your work, but be realistic. There are millions of people trying the same thing as you — to make their small business work — and you're in an ocean of individuals as unique as you. You have to think outside the box and be clever to get noticed. Rarely is there a “fast track” to success. You need to be patient and persistent. Know it's going to take a lot of time, hard work, and personal sacrifice for it to become what you want it to be. You have to be willing to put in the time and effort, otherwise you have no one to blame but yourself.
What goals do you wish to accomplish in the coming year for your Etsy business?
I'd really like to hit 1000 sales. I don't know if that's a particularly realistic goal, but I'm running with it. I find the more unrealistic the goal sounds initially, the harder I push myself, and the more realistic it becomes.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I am forever grateful for every single sale I have made while on Etsy and beyond. I have some of the most fantastic patrons you could ever ask for and my appreciation for them runs very deep. There's an indescribable satisfaction knowing someone is willing to spend their hard earned money on something you've created, and I thrive on it. My family is as supportive as a family can possibly be. From my sis cheerleading me and talking me through the rough times, to my husband being the wheel man whenever I have a long trip to undertake in the name of my work and supporting any hair-brained idea that flies through my mind, to my mom touting my work to anyone who will listen, they're all amazing. I count myself super lucky having them in my corner.
Lastly, some have said, “Don't put all of your eggs in one basket.” I have read time and again people doubting one can make a living on Etsy. I can understand where they are coming from, but really, I'm here to say I have placed all of my eggs in a basket called Etsy and I do indeed make a living here. It takes a lot to make it work but it is possible. You have to find what works best for you.
Please join Aja Thursday, May 21, 2009 at 2p.m. ET in Etsy's Virtual Labs for a live Quit Your Day Job chat! You can find some of our previous Quit Your Day Job posts here! Take a look at some of Aja's handmade items below and a post she wrote for the Gallery Go-Getter series.
| Tags | Aja, Art, full-time, painter, paintings, Quit Your Day Job, sagittariusgallery, sellers, selling, Spotlight, SPOTLIGHT, success, workflow, working |
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235 comments Login to add your own!
stilettoheights
Bravo!!! this was wonderful to read and I am excited when I see other people (like me) who do this full time. Congrats Aja!
BululuStudio
fernfiddlehead
lauraatblacksheep
Your paintings are beautiful! I love the textures that you create with the paint. Thanks for sharing your advice and experience.
qwynwyn
Thanks for sharing your story! I love to read the stories behind the etsy shops!
BlackStar
MagnoliaFern
VintageEye
moonovermaize
CircaCeramics
Great interview + well said Sagittarius - Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
satellitedaisy
thingsbuilt
nice article. new here, and trying to get as much info as possible. thanks for the insight and honesty. this helps a lot.
lesjoujou
Your work is amazing and your story is so inspiring. Thank you for sharing your journey with us.
adoreneko
EJPcreations
CopperLeafStudios
heidiburton
A very inspiring read, well done for gaining rewards for all your hard work and determination, you deserve it. Great shop too!
jewelalchemy
FancifulForm
tinybirdarts
I'm so glad to see her as the featured seller. I've loved here work every since I've been on Etsy.
Mimiandlola
OhFaro
I've always admired Sagittarius's art, she is a wonderful etsy community member too. Great article.
MoonParade
I just love success stories like yours, Aja. Your spirit and drive are very inspiring. Best wishes for much continued success!
ManoCelebrates
JDWolfePottery
thesistersstudio
Too funny I have one of the paintings on my treasury holding spot if I ever manage to snag Great article and congratulations
sagittariusgallery
Thank you everyone!! It really means a lot to me!
((hugs))
ElegantSnobbery
JesseMosher
HarrietsHaven
Liesldesigns
This is a truly inspirational story, you've overcome a lot and your success is well deserved!
Bunkies
wise words and excellent article from a fellow sag! go get 'em girl!
Krystyna81
Bravo for original art!!! and such a nice etsian, to...back to the article :)
MyNovember
Congrats Aja, and thanks to Etsy for interviewing an amazing artist and fantastic seller!
Keep up the great work. :)
AnniesWearableArt
So glad to see you featured here...you went through so much and never gave up-seeing those who have endured to reign successful is wonderful. Thank you for sharing-sure to be an inspiration and encouragement to other artists.
VividEarthDesigns
Krystyna81
aw...what a wonderful article!!! I have a nephew who is Autistic and I know it can be a struggle...I wish you lots and lots of continued success! Thank you so much for all of the great tips!
fringe
What a wonderfully candid, helpful and inspiring story. Thank you so much for sharing such excellent advice. I wish you every success with your beautiful artwork as well as your personal life. Congratulations!
jcjewelrydesign
Congratulations!!! Thank you for sharing your experiences and insight!!
KealaLegacy
Sweet Feature Aja! I love her work... was lucky to buy one of her prints, and I hope to someday own one of her originals!
Way to go Aja!
lovelygifts
stubborndog
You have beautiful work! Thanks for being such an honest example - willing to share your story and offer great advice. Best of luck toward your 1000 sales! :-)
clothpaperstitches
Faeriedtreasures
YacsPocket
Thank you for the great article! It's very encouraging. You always give us helpful advices on forum. I learned a lot of things from your posts and I appreciate your generosity. You are a real sage and a great artist!
ivaart
younghairlove
I don't mind hurting my eyes to read your article. You have been very brave and i know that when you ain't got much, there is only what you believe in that's worth. I think it's so amazing and im so happy for you ! kai
KensingtonAve
Your painting are amazing! All the best to you and your son and reaching that 1000 sales milestone!
archaicdesign
OffTheHooks
WOW. you are one amazing woman. Keep up the great work, fellow Sagittarius!
VintageMafia
really enjoyed reading this article. Thanks for being so descriptive.
AishaZalika
Your work is beautiful, simply put, and your personal story INSPIRING.. Thanks for sharing and never giving up on your dreams...........
Jaishi
Yay Aja!! I was happy to see this article and I am so very proud of you!! As someone who is going through something similiar to what you went through (struggling while trying to take care of a little one) I can truly appreciate your story.
Wishing you continued success!!
~Jaishi
worksofwhimsy
Thank you for being so honest and open about your struggles and successes. This was a great read. Wishing you continued success!
AishaZalika
you are so talented... thanks for inspiring me to keep on keeping on!
busyfish
Thank you for encouraging me to be more patient and to stick it out
gretchenmist
thanks so much for sharing your story - and for sharing so much info in the forums! and congrats for making it to where you are now :)
EarthlyCreations
I admire your obstinacy and belief in yourself. You deserve your success.
beadingbiddie
Great article. Trying to make it on etsy also. I have a part time job that I look forward to leaving!!!!
beadingbiddie.etsy.com
emmaray
Super inspiring! Right on for keeping it up until you made it work!
Congrats on your well-deserved success!
Furiousdreams
Congrats Aja! Lots of great information on marketing and how you began your business here. Appreciate your sharing with us!
Let's have more articles on fine artists and painters~
opalpoems
Wow, Such a lovely story! Very inspiring & heartwarming.
Well deserved Asa :)
spamberly
i own one of aja's prints and it serves as a steady reminder to breathe and allow the flow of life. beautiful and transformative work!!
FableBay
awesome! i love these articles, they really help me keep motivated to continue on, i am very new at etsy, and my goal is to make it my day job, but...:) getting started can be very discouraging! :)
great article, very encouraging!
MoodyBags
What an amazing and inspirational story, thank you for being so honest and sharing with all of us.
Your work is beautiful!
michon
Great article, this story is so inspiring (and beautiful paintings!)
TianaCHE
lilworkerb
baconsquarefarm
Wonderful story~ plus your paintings are incredible~! Wish you continued success and congrats as well. Your an inspiration to others!!!
CollarMeGorgeous
Wow, what an inspiration you are. Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your artwork is fabulous and I wish you all the very best of success in your future.
cinnie
A tight ship, indeed! She works harder to keep this career than anyone I know with a 40hr/wk job! And I'll tell ya, those 2pm lunch breaks- totally needed for us both! ;)
Congrats on the story!
mindlesspursuits
Fantastic artist and great feature. She and her work are both incredible!
belaluna
So inspiring! Thanks for being so open and letting us know that a painter can make it all on their own (without relying on being rep'd by a brick and mortar gallery). Congrat's and love your work!
breadandroses
ClareBears
What a great job you've done getting this far!! I relate to the Sagitarrian personality traits being one myself and they can make you into a tough person to work with for others and sometimes yourself. You've done a spectacular job so far! Congratulations.
Ozknits
How inspirational! I think you will have no problems achieving your goals!!
beckybrocato
Congratulations! What a great success story! Best of luck in reaching 1000 sales!
dbabcock
kmwatkins
AnnaArtiste
Thank you for sharing your story- truly inspirational.
Your work is beautiful - I wish you much success!
xtinavox
thanks for sharing very very much.
from another Sag, and the mother of a son on the autism spectrum.
mythunderstood
bonzie
Aja, what a heartfelt story, your such a genuine inspiration to all.
Thank you for sharing your work with the world.
x
bonzie
CatherineMarissa
Yay! What an enjoyable read. I have her originals in my studio and bedroom and have been watching for the next "perfect" painting. Thank you for sharing your talent and your story, Aja. :) Catherine
RivasStudios
SusanKJewelry
haveitconfections
sagittariusgallery
Thank you so much again everyone, I am overwhelmed by your responses!
((Hugs to you all!))
NinaReneeDesigns
Thanks for sharing your struggles and successes. Your work is fabulous!
monkeyandsquirrel
congrats to you and your success... i agree with you in that etsy is a fantastic basket to have all your eggs in!
ScottieinaCanoe
This is an awesome interview! Best Wishes for Continued Success :)
Morado
InvisibleFountain
CampanaCeramics
There was a LOT of wisdom packed into this article! Thanks for sharing your success story. I was particularly drawn to the pre-Etsy phase. I firmly believe that our darkest, most trying moments define who we become. Thanks for sharing so intimately.
knittysnaps
That was so inspiring. Your art is beautiful and I wish you continued success. :)
excely
I and my living room walls love my 3 pieces from sagittariusgallery! Thanks Aja, for being a fabulous artist and also a top-notch Etsian.
zeropumpkin
abitabite
shellieartist
Sag....lovely read and great information. I love all your work and am so glad you are making a living selling it. Etsy really is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I feel the same as you do about each and every sale I have made here or else where. Keep up the great work!
xoxo
Shellie
artbytrudy
AJA..This article could not have come at a better time! Mary excellent reporting! I am living in a one bedroom condo with my 2 dogs and a cat. I am to the point I don't answer the door anymore.....paint, canvas, boxes and boxes.....My passion for art has taken over and Thank God I have a husband that supports my new crazy life! Very inspirational!
dandelionland
Your paintings are beautiful! and your story is very inspiring. Thanks!
crimsonfirestudios
recycledwares
thanks for sharing your business ideas and secrets with us. so glad to see another artist making a living at what they like best. best of luck to you.
PipocaHandmade
Great tips and words of inspiration! Lovely work! Congrats!
cthings
Congratulations Sag!! You are a inspiration and very helpful in the forums!!
loopyboopy
I've always loved your work and through this article find you and your journey extremely inspiring. Hooray for your drive and desire. Your an amazing artist and thanks to Etsy for recoginizing and featuring the fine arts, Sagitarrius specifically!
squareware
wow, I can't believe the challenges you've overcome to get where you are, you should be very proud! And thank you for the honest advice, will take it to heart.
moonstr
DeborahVoizin
unemployeddesigner
Thank you so much for sharing your story, and all of your great advice, here and in the forums. So generous and inspiring!
glintgear
Wow. Your transparent sharing are moving and inspiring. I love the candid photos of your studio ... especially the area of your easel. It's REAL. You are real. And your success is real... hard work but genuine and beautiful.
A sincere thanks.
pandabunny
Great work! Like everyone else said - very inspirational.
Good luck at making 1k sales, I am sure it will just be a matter of time :)
couturedesignsbym
it's sooo the truth...you drown in your own work, but love every minute. It can be done...kids in your lap and all. Congrats!!!
HouseHoldWords
4TheSparrowsNest
Fantastic! I too appreciate your willingness to share with us what you have learned. Awesome!
bitterwaterbreeze
Great to get the backstory on one of my favorite etsy artists. I treasure your contribution, my life is enriched whenever a painting of yours takes me away from my daily reality.
lynsi
You are an inspiration. I would love to be able to follow in your footsteps. Congrats on your success!
CositasSeriasVintage
Congratulation! You are extremely talented and lovely!
sherrytruitt
Oh, Aja, I am so so glad to see your story here. There's no limit to where you'll go, my talented friend.
empapers
pinkdandyshop
vantiani
larimeloom
congrats sagittariusgallery, it's great that you got to do that with your art!!!
Salma01
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Salma01
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savistudio
heartworksbylori
Congrats Aja! It was awesome to read this and so inspiring...continued blessings to you! Let's chat soon about the art jewelry :) Happy day!
rafya
What a brave and special women you are Sagit, wish you lot of success!
gloriouscrochet
Now that was pretty awesome. Rock on fellow sagittarian. You are fiery indeed. The work is breathtaking.
misspurchase
A real inspiration! I hope you reach every goal you put your mind to.
NizasArt
Many times I feel like giving up and going back to the old 9-5 job that I really dread. I love painting and being creative. This is what I really want to do. You've inspired me. Thank you!! I love your work :)
laurabrownart
hurrah! so glad to see a fine artist in the quit your day job feature. i can really relate to a lot of what you say, thanks for the inspiration.
allthenumbers
LaveMeSoapCo
xangetsu
artbyjude
JAdamsDesigns
Beautiful Paintings! I LOVE your use of colors!
Not to mention what an inspiring story! It's so nice to read about people that have made it in this! It's been my goal to try and really turn my shop into a part time job instead of a hobby and all the questions and pit falls can really knock you back a bit and make you want to stop trying, but then I read something like this and I'm inspired all over again! Thank You for that and congratulations on your success!!!
elysiumdesign
leasvintage
Sometimes I go crazy trying to explain how much time I put into my little business of selling clothes. They just don't seem to get it and think I have all the time in the world. You have really nailed it right on the head. Your schedule sounds just like mine. It is a constant 24/7 job that's for sure. Thank you for sharing your story, and it inspires me to want to paint my 3x3 canvas:)
Artsy
merlinsbarkproducts
ToadAlamode
JudiPaintedit
Very cool article.
You go girl...;o)
Always nice to chat with in the forums.
BeckyJoyArtist
CarolinaCottage
lucky0girl0racer
AAngels
Awesome story!!!
I so hope someday I get where you are, this would work so good for retirement, seeing how I don't have a retirement for me and I am 55.
Love this article very inspiring!! Gets me motivated!!
Kathy
DahliasDesigns
Very inspiring story!!! So happy for you and very motivating for us. These articles are inspiring - we wait for them every week!!!
thestapeliacompany
Beautiful work. I love reading these inspiring articles about artists who make it on their own!
glorygifts
Beautiful artwork! I love her style! Very interesting article as well..thanks for sharing!:)
Blessings,
Amy:)
FreshlySkweezed
Hurray for you! So very inspiring! Congrats and best of luck!
santosleather
TALENT is the word ! Fantastic story, and simply stunning work ! Congratulations !
PrairieFairyDesigns
Really beautiful work, it's no surprise miss sag. is able to make her living selling art! Huge inspiration. keep up the good work.
KalliopeJewelry
Love your use of bold color Aja, and you're so generous with your time and information to fellow Etsians. Thank you for sharing, best of luck to you for continued success!
AnvilArtshop
Very inspiring article -- loved the realistic dose of grit and guts along with the artistic dreams... Congrats on all your success, and wishing you more to come.
ifanhour
Congratulations and continued good luck. I went to that high school in Scotia....3 gyms now? The art room was my favorite too......
babook
i don`t has anything to prepare ahead of time too for this shop i real sure it i want be best day by day ! i thought as the marry things ; ) just a moment
sagittariusgallery
ifanhour - Yup, 3 gyms. Crazed. They *finally* did something about the art rooms last year I think, after they'd taken care of a new parking lot, new gym, and a new science wing. I left in 2000.
Feille
Jujie
ZhivanaDesigns
LoveForEarth
This article was truly a *joy* to read. Amazingly inspiring and yet at the same time brutally honest and not sugar coating. I really wish you the best of business and continued success, you deserve it, and you earned it :)
preciousgemgarden
I loved reading your story! I think my favorite part was seeing a photo of your workspace. That's about what my workspace looks like when I'm done creating. It makes me feel normal lol! Thanks for the honesty and the encouragement. Stories like yours give me hope.
Nishale
KJoannRussell
Thanks for your transparency. I remember you from the big "E". Your story is my shot of adrenalin for today to continue to be focused.
bungalowmarketplace
Wow! This story is absolutely inspiring! One of the best ones I've read! Your work is breathtaking!
junebird
I LOVE your story and was so inspired by you! Thank you so much for sharing!
riricreations
I'm joining in with what must be 100's of new fans of yours~you go girl! Love your work, and appreciate the encouragement and straight talk, as I'm letting go of one of my other part-time jobs so I can "create" more. It's scary, but I can't not do it...I have to create, and I'm blessed like you to have a supportive hubby, and I must confess, I also email at 3 a.m...Blessings, hugs and well wishes to you!
Rita
baffinbags
What a great inspiring story. I love your work - thank for sharing with us.
FashionTouch
Happy for you!!! huge inspiration for many of us!!! God bless you!!!
zombiepenguen
If anyone can sell a 1,000 paintings on Etsy it would definitely be you.
SANSHELLEdesigns
WOW, you are an inspiration! Thank you so much for sharing your story and your beautiful artwork. Against many obstacles you have proven the naysayers wrong ~ I'm sure there must have been many along the way, telling you to give up when things were hardest and just get a job-job. Well done for following your passion and giving other artists reason to believe they are NOT crazy for 'refusing to be practical'(aka give up the dream) I'm hoping ETSY will be an answer for me too. I just signed on, still groping around to figure it all out, but you have REALLY encouraged me. Thanks Again and I wish you much continued success!
HannahPhelps
This is a very inspiring and informative post. Thanks so much for sharing your experiences and advice!
thingsbuilt
i wrote earlier in the day about how inspiring this article was. Well...three hours later, we've sold three backpacks! We've only been up for a little over 48hours. This is unreal. What a trip. Actually, if feels like the whole vacation. Thanks to all you Etsy folks for showing us the way.
Studio111
Thank you so much for sharing your work and story, it is really helpful to hear such a success story.
kniceartworks
You Rock Lady! Thank you so much for sharing - you, your constant drive and artistic soul are inspirational. Fabuloso article! Kudos ;-)
anandi
what a great story! congratulations to you, aja, for getting to do what you love as a career :)
yogagoat
BenzieBee
oyster
The work in the leading photo - the subject looks like Jen Aniston...
eclecticart4kids
Wow, I am really inspired by your story, I really needed to read this. I'm brand new to Etsy so, you give some really great and inspiring tips to keep me motivated.
Thank You,
Danica
sharlzndollz
MalviMart
So glad you are telling your story and I was lucky enough to read it! You are such an inspiration!!!!!!!! Thank you so much for sharing your story and your fantastic artwork. I hope that I am able to make a living on etsy too.I just started selling and feel confident that as you said with hard work and some creativity I will be able to make a living on Etsy.
Thanks you I wish you creativity, energy and tons and tons of sales!!!!
PoedyPencilPrincess
soule
What a great life story, she brought tears of sad and happy as I read her story. I'm so happy for all your success!! Such a strong woman!!!! Congrats!
Katelynscrafts
That is a very touching and inspiring story. Great job and thanks for the good advice
littlepinkpebble
wow~!! I'm a painter too~!! Hope i can quit my day job too : )
LushPunk
SimpleTraditions
An extremely inspirational story, thank you so much for sharing!
PoorRobot
littlemoandfriends
an inspirational story from a very talented artist!! well done!! xx hugs
rockzeecouture
I am new to etsy and appreciate reading your story! People like you help us stay motivated to keep on trying to make a business out of what we love to do, CREATE!!!!!!!!!!!
YonderPrints
I am just "quitting my day job" and trying to do Etsy full time. Thanks for the inspiring story, and great work!
SpiritedWoodland
Owleyeforge
Fabulous advice, filled with inspiration and motivation. A REAL story, from one Sagitarius to another. Much appreciated, Thank you!!!
Imagesbylynnann
3brwngrls
Waterrose
Great information and a wonderful, giving seller! Hope to "see" you...setting my alarm.
slumptown
Your work is beautiful. Very inspiring story too. I am sure you will make your goal.
UrbanCheesecraft
Congratulations Sag.! Quit your day jobs are so inspiring...
Lavatican
Really great interview. Thanks.
The photos of her paintings are really great quality. Perhaps a story could be done specifically on photographing paintings. I would like to know what different people use.
What is the best lighting?
What camera?
What sort of white balance do you use?
Do you edit in Photoshop?
Maybe an article has been done on this. Does anyone know?
bword
Squier
JessicaDoyle
Wow! What an inspiring read. I wish you continued success. your art is beautiful :)
silverWARES
Great story! My Daughter is borderline Asbergers and she was miss diagnosed with ADD . So for most of her life we were treating her for the wrong thing and I feel that it has caused her social problems due to that. She is doing much better now and is on the honor role.
I love to hear stories of others that have fallen and fought back to the top
ArtgasmDesign
This is VERY inspirational! I'm looking to support myself through art as well. Thanks alot!
efia
I'm a Sag too and your story is familiar to me. Keep pushing on. Don't stop.
cinhesse
LollyBopBaby
I love this story and see a lot of myself in it.
The best to you and your family. I am off to write a list of goals.
Be blessed!
decors
thanks so much for such wonderful article. I shown hubby where you said waking up at 3am to check mail. We both smiled. That sounds like me. Keep up the good work and good luck!
MicheleWells
jennifermagnesi
Congrats on being your own boss, you are such an inspiration, and a phenomenal artist. What a pleasant read.
sagittariusgallery
Thank you so much again guys for your support!! It's funny, looking at all the comments, we're all so much alike - reminds me how connected we all really are.
Keep on keepin' on, all. I have faith in you, too :)
pandoraslocker
What a fantastic story! Probably the best "Quit Your Day Job" story ever, and I've read each one.
My high school was kind of the same when it came to art class. We had to use the backs of posters/hangings in order to paint on something, even though everyone was required to a $25 fee as well. My school built a fitness center (Yes, I did say, center) that same year as well.
adorebynat
Agreed with Pandoraslocker and everyone else. I love reading Quit Your Day Job articles and yours in particular touches my heart. Your honesty makes everything reals. The struggles that you went through and how far you've come, Congrats gal! I admire you. Very inspirational indeed!
bobbinalong
Sagittariusgallery, I really enjoyed reading about your talents. I think this is just the beginning for you. With your drive, and ambition, and talent, not to mention a very supportive family, I think the sky is the limit for you. Continue to grow and stretch your talents to new limits. I wish you the best. Hope we will see you here on Etsy for a long time.
RomanceCatsAndWhimsy
Wow! This has to be one of the best articles on Quit Your Day Job that I've ever read. I started reading them before selling on Etsy to get as much information as possible. You are such an inspiration and full of crystal clear information and tips.
Your art is beautiful, you deserve your success. Thank you for your generously sharing.
GreenTease
flanchico
PrettyMuchArt
Great story! Thanks for sharing and best of luck on your continued success!
cherielovesbeads
I love your work Aja! And thank you for sharing your story with us:). Hugs!
gilstrapdesigns
Man your interview was so good I felt like I was talking to you in person. Your interview makes me want to keep creating and knowing that I really have a good chance of making it here on ETSy no matter what.
CherringDesigns
Thanks for taking the time to do this interview and share your many helpful suggestions and insights!
kristend12
gertswerks
What a wonderful story/journey Aja! Bravo for hanging in there and pushing yourself to succeed. Your creative approach to life has created the perfect solution, and you have inspired me. I get discouraged and have not had much success in Etsy. I'm going to give it another shot, thanks to you. Hugs, Gert
LoriAnnEnchanted
GemmaClaireEva
Well done you, you're success and will to succeed through adversity is a testament to self belief and an inspiration to creative souls everywhere. Rock on Sagittarius ;)
therebirthofnyela
I too am a painter trying to do my thing on Etsy, and I'm so thrilled that there are some painters that do it, and are quite good at what they do. It makes me want to keep trying here.
dob1969
Wow, I am just reading this now - what a great story! Good for you!
As you know, I am the proud owner of several of your pieces and while I loved them before, they all seem so much more beautiful now that I've read about you. Thanks for sharing. Ali oxox
sagittariusgallery
Ali - thanks for reading, commenting, and of course, collecting ((hugs))
Emmamaha
jpgallery
Wonderful article, thanks for sharing. I am so relieved to see a painter in the Quit Your Day Job series - it's very inspirational.
Thanks again!
Latinpop
I'm also a full time painter. It's a struggle but well worth it. Inspiration from artists like you provide great motivation for keeping on track.
Thanks for sharing your story of success.
John G.
meandmypaintbrush
So inspiring! I too have done "well" on Ebay...but the fees are outrageous! I have 2 girls...one with Aspergers and one with Autism...painting is helping to pay the bills, allows me the extra time my girls need, and it is truly my therapy! Wishing you the best toward your 1000 sales!
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