Etsy Interview with the MichelleCollection

Wow, I never really talk about myself much, I suppose I could describe myself as being quite quirky and indecisive. For example, I do not have a favorite color. I love all colors and can never pick just one. I can not tell you what my favorite food is either. I could name maybe twenty kinds of food without needing to think about it. I am quite "girly", several of my friends have dubbed me "Miss Priss." I really do not see myself as prissy, but I suppose my friends call it like they see it. I am always trying to have an original look; which makes having my own jewelry line a blessing. If I do not have a piece of jewelry to match my outfit I will often make myself one to wear. I am a collector of several things-beads, vintage jewelry, cookie cutters, and doll-size china tea sets. I have been collecting beads since I was a small child, Santa often brought me beads at Christmas! In addition to being a jewelry designer, I am also a wife to a husband that supports my "bead" habit and a mother to two great sons that do not mind moving my never ending supply of beads off the dining room table to make room to eat!

How and when did you start making jewelry?

I actually starting making jewelry when I was about 4 or 5 years old. I was fascinated by beads, I suppose the many sizes, shapes, and colors really grabbed my attention. I first started selling my jewelry about 2 years ago, my then boyfriend now husband asked me why I did not make jewelry to sell since many people would ask about my pieces when I wore them. I was nervous at first, but I forged ahead and gave it a shot. We decided to name my jewelry line the MichelleCollection. At my first show, I sold quite well and had requests for more. Now I am on Etsy.com under the shop name MichelleCollection. I also do home shows and craft fairs.

How and when did you find Etsy?

I found out about Etsy about three years ago. A dear friend called me and told me she found a website that was full of neat things and that I should check it out. Thus came the addiction to Etsy! I often would check out Etsy and all the great shops but was very hesitant to place my own items online. I was not sure I could manage to do it as I am not a "techy' type of person. My husband once again encouraged me and I finally opened the MichelleCollection on Etsy. I placed my own designs as well as vintage pieces I thought others would like. I sold two of my original designs within a week, and I have remained Etsy ever since.

What is unique about Etsy?

I love Etsy because it gives the MichelleCollection an opportunity to be viewed worldwide. I love the personal conversation allowed between shopper and buyer. When I receive a personal message from a buyer it makes my day! The MichelleCollection shop has sold items to several different countries and it thrills me to know someone across the ocean is wearing one of my pieces.

What inspires you the most in regards to your creations?

I am inspired by everyday objects. As I mentioned earlier I love all colors, I can be walking and notice a great color combination. I keep a notebook with me at all times so I can jot down ideas for the MichelleCollection. I also will ask my sons on a whim to tell me what colors they think looks good with another. It usually is their favorite sports teams colors, but on occasion they throw out a combination I had not thought of.

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

As I mentioned earlier, it is hard for me to name a favorite of anything. Two pieces come to mind though. The first is a birds nest made from sterling silver wire and my sons birthstones in it. I wear it often and am complimented about the "eggs" in it. The second is a new piece I just placed for purchase on the MichelleCollection. It is named Natures Wonder and is a glorious mix of semi precious golden green stones.

What do you want to accomplish with your online shop?

I want the michellecollection to be successful and a site that people can rely on for unique and quality jewelry pieces. I want my customers to know they are purchasing original pieces that will never be replicated. My goal for the year 2011 is 365 sales.

Do you have any new creations in the works?

New in my shop is my upcycled bobby pins. I took vintage earrings and revamped them into unique accessories with vintage flair. I have sets available with two and three bobby pins and a few singles as well. I also at this very time am working on pendants for the MichelleCollection shop. I hope to list several this month. Having pendants allows the customers to get a different look just by switching the pendants.

Where can readers find out more?

Please visit the MichelleCollection on etsy.com! I have sales and I list special offers often. I will soon be starting a facebook for the michellecollection and when it is ready i will post this information as well on the michellecollection shop on Etsy.