Etsy Interview with Just Earrings and Just Charming

I'm Lisa. I live with my handsome husband and ten year old son, in a rural South Carolina town, on the outskirts of Greenville/Spartanburg.

We enjoy yearly trips to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and to Hilton Head Island, off the S.C. coast. Here at home we enjoy riding our bikes together, swimming, and really anything we can do as a family. My creative outlets have always been many and varied (not enough hours in a day.) As a child I crocheted, knitted and drew. I didn't begin quilting until after I was married.

How and when did you start making jewelry and your other items?

I'd been quilting for several years when I opened my first Etsy shop, Quilts by Lisa, in early 2007.

And the jewelry shops came about as I was making earrings for myself, when friends and family started asking me to make some for them, as well. Thus Just Earrings came to be. And I opened Just Charming to offer matching bracelets and necklaces, after beading began to take over as my main creative passion.

When and how did you originally find Etsy?

A friend suggested that I may want to sell some of my handmade quilts on the (then brand new) web site called Etsy. I'm so glad she did!

What is unique about Etsy and what about the web site do you like the most in regards to your creations?

Etsy is unique in that, apart from the vintage offerings and some of the supplies that we so dearly love, it is the perfect venue for quality artisan handmades. Just when we think Etsy can't get any better, they somehow find a way to improve upon the site! It's beautiful, easy to navigate and the perfect showcase for my designs. Fully half of my buyers are Etsy newcomers who find it easy and fun to shop from home.

What inspires you most in regards to your creations?

Can I say everything? I'm inspired by colors, seasons, even feelings. Many times the beads themselves call out to me! I obviously love flowers and so much of my jewelry is garden or bouquet inspired. And many times, buyers will ask for a design to match a new bag, a dress or an occasion. I very much enjoy the challenge of these custom orders. They always lead to new ideas for the shops.

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

What I'm creating at any given time, is what I find most exciting. One of my most favorite designs in the bracelet shop, right now, is 'Sunshine on the Vine' which is now my shop's avatar. I'm partial to the fringe-style bracelets, as I feel they are my signature style.

What do you want to accomplish with your on-line shop?

I just feel fortunate to be able to do what I love, while contributing to the family's income. I'm proud to offer beautiful and affordable jewelry! Did I mention the free worldwide shipping?

I'm so happy to be able to be home for our son, take care of my family and create a little beauty that people can have for themselves.

Do you have any new creations in the works? If so, what can shoppers expect to see from you soon?

Always! I've always something new in the works; on my craft table, ready to be assembled. I list new jewelry every day - so check back often.

The coming seasons have me in the mood for warm Autumn colors. And it's time to offer some chunkier pieces to wear with those Fall and Winter sweaters.

Where can readers find out more information regarding your jewelry and other creations and possible special offers?

Thanks for asking! I'm very proud to be a member of Etsy's Artisans Gallery Team.

Our blog is the best, I think! Our team facebook page is located here.

And my personal facebook fan page! See what's new from the AGteam today.

My shops are Just Charming, Just Earrings & Quilts by Lisa.