Etsy Interview with Cool Water Gems

We at Cool Water Gems are a mother/daughter team. I am a mother of 7 who has home-schooled over the past 18 years. I am in business with Angela, my 17 year old daughter. It is so wonderful to work with her doing something we both love. And she is so creative and motivated!

How and when did you start making jewelry?

I have always loved decorating and designing - Angela has always been crafting something - but it wasn't until Angela received a bead kit for her birthday that I actually tried my hand at jewelry. We both just started messing with it and .... Cool Water Gems was born.

How did you find out about Etsy and what is unique about it?

My sister came across etsy in a magazine article; another friend in art also mentioned it to me a while back. But I have to admit that I felt a little bit overwhelmed by the amount of items on the site. (how was anyone going to find me?) It took a while before I felt comfortable giving it a try - I wish I had not waited! We have had very positive results - we originally joined in November of '09 but did not actually post items and "open shop" until July 5, 2010. We are so inspired by the other shop owners and by the whole set of buyers that we have been introduced to who appreciate 'handmade'.

What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?

We find inspiration everywhere - the outdoors; the seasons; the materials themselves. Living in Florida, the beach is a great inspiration!

What is your favorite piece you've created and why?

It is hard to pick a favorite piece, but one on the list would be a fairly simple glass bead dangle bracelet in shades of sage that I made for my mom. She has been battling brain cancer and while in one of the rehab centers, she fell in love with a glass mosaic tile in her room. I was able to match the beads almost perfectly.

What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?

What I want to accomplish with our shop is actually two-fold: one, being a large family, it is sometimes difficult to be a stay at home mom. So, I would like to generate a nice income to supplement. And two, to continue to inspire my daughter to be as creative as she can be and be able to support herself. (she already has plans to open her own shop when she turns 18!)

Any new creations?

As far as new creations, we are working on some ideas for rings (haven't ventured there yet). Also, Angela would like to add some items such as hair accessories and beach cover-ups.

Where can readers find out more info about your jewelry?

You can find CoolWaterGems on Facebook. We also have a video on YouTube.com and a website at www.coolwatergems.com.