Beadphoria Jewelry Business Marketing Tip: Printshop Pro Publisher by Broderbund

by Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

Business Card Suzann Sladcik Wilson created using Printshop Pro

When Beadphoria has a product that it loves, we like to share. Recently, we found a publishing program that will make your small business look like a large corporation in just a few clicks.

Printshop Pro Publisher Deluxe version 23 by Broderbund is a must for anyone that is looking to bring their business to the next level. With over 23,000 templates, 900 fonts, and 420,000 images and graphics, the combination is almost endless. The quality products produced look like you paid for a high priced graphic designer instead of publishing from a home printer.

The program comes with what would be expected with a publishing program, such as mail merge, saving as a pdf, and photo editing tools, but included are a few surprises. A logo creator, business form tool, and a small business center by Entrepreneur.com will make desktop publishing a breeze.

Beadphoria has used Printshop Pro Publisher for their business cards, brochures, faxes, and receipts with rave reviews. The best part is what you would normally pay hundreds of dollars for desktop publishing is only $89.99! Go to their website for a fall 10% off sale or check your local office supply store to find this extremely useful tool for your business.

FTC Notice – Beadphoria has not in any way received any form payment to endorse this product.

If you have any questions about beading, or jewelry business marketing tips, please feel free to contact me at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com. Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of Beadphoria.com.

Beadphoria Tips: Checklist for Shows

by Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

Customers love jewelry displayed in a plesent way.

Beadphoria is proud of their student Fran who will be doing the first public sale of her jewelry at the end of this month. Whether you are a seasoned professional who has done many shows or you are about to venture for the first time, this checklist should help you remember all the items you need to be a success!

___ Business cards – bring more than you think you will need. Drop one in with each purchase and leave some out on the table for people to pick up.

___ Money Holder & Change – At least $50 in various amounts to make change is a good start.

___ Sales Receipts & Calculator – you can buy blank sales receipts at your local office supply store.

___ Extra Pens, Scissors, & Tape – always good to have on hand!

___ Bags & Boxes for customer purchases.

___ Table Covering – Fabric remnants from your local sewing center are a cheap way to make your table stand out from the rest and help highlight your jewelry.

___ Displays for your jewelry.

___ Lighting & Extension Cords – Some locations need extra light for people to see the true colors of jewelry designs. One or two portable Ott lights are helpful.

___ Candy! Putting a bowl of candy out can help attract customers to your table.

___ Mailing List – Have a place where people can sign up to find out the latest about your business.

What else do you bring to have a successful show? Please share in the comments below.

If you have any questions about beading, or jewelry shows, please feel free to contact me at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com. Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of Beadphoria.com.

Beadphoria Quick Tips: Making Simple Loops

By Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria CEO

Pair of earrings made using a simple loop.

Here are some quick tips Beadphoria uses when teaching beginners how to make a simple loop for earrings or a pendent.

-Use the width of your pinky nail to measure how long you should cut your headpin from the 90 degree bend on top of your bead.

-Tip to Tip – put the tip of your cut headpin to the tip of your round nose pliers to make your loop.

-Make your loop with your wrist, without moving your elbow.

-Need a familiar motion to think of while making your loop? Twist your wrist like using a can opener!

By using these tips, you will be making the perfect simple loop in no time!

If you have any questions about beading, or how to make a simple loop, feel free to contact me directly at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com . Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of www.Beadphoria.com .

Beadphoria says “Thank you!”

by Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

Just a quick note to say thank you to Earthenwood Studios, Margot Potter, and Auntie’s Beads for listing Beadphoria on their blog rolls. It’s wonderful to be in such great company! Please check out their blogs listed on the right hand side of this site.

If you have any questions about beading, or linking your blog with Beadphoria, please feel free to contact me at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com. Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of Beadphoria.com

What Happens At The Bead Show…by Suzann S. Wilson, Beadphoria

Shopping is always fun at a Rings & Things Show!

by Suzann S. Wilson

This past Thursday Beadphoria went to the Rings & Things Traveling Bead Show in Chicago. This event is a highlight for Beadphoria, as that they not only get a chance to buy top quality beads and components, they also get to interact with other jewelry makers. Here is an account from Suzann Sladcik Wilson.

While I was shopping I noticed a man and a woman perusing the beads together. What struck me was that as the woman was shopping, her husband was following two steps behind holding his wife’s bead tray.  Many husbands/significant others, while being supportive of our beading addiction passion, would have listed being in a ballroom filled with beads low on their things to do on a Thursday afternoon.

Since I had my camera, I asked to take a picture of the couple.  The woman stated, “Oh, I brought my brother, too! Do you want him in the picture?” I couldn’t believe it! Husband and brother? This smart woman had brought an all male crew with her!

After I took the picture, we had a lovely conversation.  She was currently on her 3^rd tray of beads and owned a small bead shop in rural Illinois. When I told her the picture was for Beadphoria’s blog, she said “uh oh, my husband is a pastor. What are people going to think when he should be in his office writing a sermon and he is with me at a bead show?”

My answer…“Just tell people that they’re prayer beads!”

Beadphoria Business – Quick Marketing Tips

Picture of a necklace Beadphoria CEO Suzann Sladcik Wilson recently sold while she was out and about.

Beadphoria understands that marketing your jewelry making business can be a challenge. Here are some tips to make it easier.

Be your own model. Wear your jewelry as you are out and about. Someone may buy it right off you!

Carry your business cards with you. Hand them out as often as you can.

If a local business has a stand with materials promoting other area businesses, ask if you can include yours.

Speak up about your business! If making jewelry is a second job for you, remember to mention it if someone asks what you do for a living. This may open a door of opportunity to tell people about your beautiful work and to new customers.

Work with other people who own their own businesses. Offer incentives like a discount on their next purchase if they refer a customer to you.

Have a marketing tip you can share with your fellow jewelry makers? Please let us know in the comments below.

If you have any questions about beading, or jewelry business marketing tips, please feel free to contact me at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com. Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of Beadphoria.com.

Beadporia Tips & Tricks: Shopping for Strands

By Suzann Sladcik Wilson

When shopping for quality beads, Beadphoria often buys in strands. Buying in strands ensures you to have enough beads to complete a project and may leave you with enough for complementary jewelry, like bracelets and earrings.  Having additional beads on hand also allows you duplicate designs, if a piece becomes popular.

Here are some tips when shopping for strands.

Price per bead – Some strands may seem expensive, but when you calculate the price per bead, it can actually be a bargain. Divide the cost of the strand by the number of beads on the strand to figure out the cost per bead.

Use a keen eye – Look for consistent color, shaping, and size when choosing a strand.

Take your time – Go through as many strands as possible to find the one that catches your eye.

Ask! – A hank of beads is when 10-14 strands are tied together. If you buy a whole hank, they often will give you a discount. Strand with a broken bead you can’t live without?  See if they are willing to reduce the price.

Keep in mind that while some stores will break strands and sell individual beads, strands at bead shows are generally kept intact.

If you have any questions about beading, or shopping for strands, please feel free to contact me directly at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com. Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of Beadphoria.com.

Beadphoria’s Meet Up Group and Classes

by Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoira

Beadphoria has it’s own meet up group on www.Meetup.com. We think this member says it best.

“If you are thinking about jewelry making, beautiful beads, focused instruction, a relaxed and creative atmosphere after a busy work day, this is the group for you. The session is not too long, not to short, just right, but don’t take my word for it, come to the next meeting and find out for yourself.”  – Diane

Sign up today to be notified of when you can have a joyful beading experience with Beadphoria!

Beadphoria Tips: Making Custom Jewelry for Clients

Necklace designed for Beadphoria client Loretta.

At Beadphoria, making jewelry for a client’s specific needs, or consignment work, is an enjoyable challenge. Here are some tips for successful consignment work.

-Color – When designing to match a specific piece of clothing, ask the client to see it before starting. This will save you from having your design clash or be a different color tone than what was intended.

-Length – Ask the client to measure the length of their favorite piece of jewelry to ensure a proper fit.

-Use – Consider where the jewelry is going to be worn. Is it special event piece with lots of crystals, or is it meant for more every day wear and needs to be made to stand up to continual use?

-Skin & Hair Color – Certain colors look better than others on specific skin tones. What may look stunning on one person may look washed out on another.

-Style – Some people love chunky jewelry, while others prefer a lighter look. Ask what your client prefers.

-Allergies – When using metals in your designs, find out if the client is allergic to any specific types metals. One client Beadphoria worked with could only wear 14k gold. Even sterling silver caused a reaction.

-Price – Many clients have a price range they want to keep within. Consider this when choosing materials.

If you have any questions about beading, or making custom jewelry for clients, feel free to contact me directly at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com . Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of Beadphoria.com.

Beadphoria Favorites: Jangles

Jangles Beads and Findings - A fun way to make your jewelry smile!

By Suzann Sladcik Wilson

Beadphoria strives to bring you the best of the beading world. This week we focus on a line of ceramic beads and findings that will bring a smile to your jewelry and you face.

Jangles are hand made by Jennifer Heynen in Athens, GA. Beads, toggles, buttons, bead cones, and new links are all part of the Jangles line. You can see the joy she has making each one. The colors and designs are whimsical and fun.   The bold strokes are for those looking to make a statement with their jewelry making.

Besides the fantastic customary pieces Jangles makes, check out the adorable seasonal items offered by Jangles. Pumpkin toggles and candy corn pendants for Halloween; Snowmen and Christmas Trees for the winter season; hearts in various sizes for Valentine’s and weddings; bees and flowers for summer fun.

Until August 17, 2009 Jangles is having a 20% off sale on their website only. Click here to bring you beading a whole lot of joy!

If you have any questions about beading, or Jangles, feel free to contact me directly at 224-305-3321 or Suzann@Beadphoria.com . Always happy to share the joy of beading with you, Suzann Sladcik Wilson of www.Beadphoria.com .