This morning I get to write a fun interview! The shop Rew Elliott, is all about bridal, vintage rhinestone, special event, and birthstone jewelry. Every piece is stunning and creatively handcrafted. I especially like the
vintage rhinestone jewelry, so wonderful!
Now for the interview...
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What do you make?
Primarily I make vintage rhinestone jewelry. I get a lot of brides that visit my shop either for themselves or looking for pieces for their bridesmaids, so I also do a lot of custom work. I also enjoy using Swarovski crystals and pearls and art glass. I recently launched a line of vintage rhinestone mother's and birthstone jewelry, exclusive to Rew Elliott.
How did you get started in your craft?
I blogged about the origins of my shop last month, rewelliottstyle.blogspot.com/2011/02/rew-behind-rew-elliott.html , but in a nutshell, I started Rew Elliott in honor of my brother, who passed away in 2005. I have been a lifelong crafter and artisan, so this was the perfect way for me to focus that energy.
How did you find Etsy?
I was an Etsy shopper long before I was an Etsy seller!
Do you have any inspirations, or someone you find especially inspiring to you?
I love all things old. I love that vintage items have flaws, that two pieces of the same thing may not be exactly identical. I am inspired by the attention to detail, the care, and the craftsmanship of vintage items. I also adore turn of the century style... Edwardian, Art Nouveau...etc. I try to bring a sense of that elegant age to my designs.
Tell us about your creative process.
I have been making jewelry since 2005, but my work has evolved quite a bit from what it was when I started. It took a while for me to find my niche and to come to the realization that I need to make what I love, not what I think others will love!
What are some things you have done you think helped your business the most?
Stay true to your own personal style. Make what you love. That's the biggest thing I have learned. If you start trying to create without being true to yourself, you won't enjoy it and you won't feel the same pride in your work. Every time I sell something, I feel like I just sold a piece of my own personal jewelry. I love each piece. But I am also so happy that others are appreciating what I make. It's really about being vulnerable in that way. Putting yourself into your work, bits of your heart and soul, and hoping others appreciate that extension of yourself.
Do you have a favorite piece you created?
The swarovski crystal and pearl bracelet that I designed for my sister in law. It is so sentimental to me and I am so happy that it has become a best seller!
www.etsy.com/listing/55184232/swarovski-bracelet-bride-wedding-tripple
Do you attend art and craft fairs?
As often as I can being the wife of a basketball coach and mother of 2 children under 3!
If you where to offer a newbie one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don't give up! It takes a long time to build anything worthwhile. Ask for and listen to the feedback of others, but don't change what makes your work uniquely yours. If you have a quality product, people will begin to take notice. Photos are so important on Etsy. People can't touch and feel your products, so your photos really have to sell it.
Do you have a favorite vacation spot?
St. George Island, FL where my family has a beach house. I was married there too!
Where else on the web can we find you?
Twitter:
twitter.com/rewelliott
Facebook:
www.facebook.com/pages/Rew-Elliott-Jewelry/137560656271840
Blog:
rewelliottstyle.blogspot.com/
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
I was a ballet dancer for over 20 years and I currently teach advanced level ballet.
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Thank you for sharing your story with us, I enjoyed it! Check out her shop at Rew Elliot on Etsy.
1 comment:
Wonderful interview! Thanks for all the advice!
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