Have Two Guitar Straps In A Local Art Gallery

[DoubleC]

With the third possibly going in a music store tomorrow when we speak to the owner. The guys working were very positive. The Art Gallery is run by a Jeweler and 40% of the proceeds go to the art programs in the schools. What a win-win. Might seem like it would be better to sell them without a commission but I like the idea of helping the local schools keep their artistic programs, music, drama, art.

The music store charges 30% commission but it's a great place to get my work seen by locals since it's the only one around here.

I was a little disappointed that the store I took my jewelry to specifically, thought my things were 'too country and western' for their clients. I guess I had never viewed it that way, unique and different, but not country and western. She also said it was a little 'spooky' LOL. I kinda liked that. So anyway the Jewelry will go with me to the tack consignment place along with my rhythm beads.

Once I got out the door things went very easy. Caitlin, the job coach that went with me was a big help. Doing things like giving out her business cards, and mine, and collecting them from other people which I probably would have forgotten. People were nice and I enjoyed it a great deal. For once we had a beautiful sunny fall day. Overall it was a big success. Just doing it and not freaking out would have been success enough.

I liked the comments I got from the store owner who thought my jewelry was country and western type stuff. I honestly hadn't ever considered that. It gave me new ideas on what my target market is.

Thank all of you who helped get me out the door this morning and earlier. I wanted to write each of you individually and I will just as soon as I can catch my breath. Cheryl

[EquusCustomLeathers]

Yay! Good for you!! I know how hard it is to put yourself out there like that..be proud-great things are going to happen for you:)

[DoubleC]

OH I am so proud that I did it, and so tired now that it's done. But today made the return trip to the music store tomorrow look like nothing. Thank you so much, Cheryl

[Sylvia]

Excellent result Cheryl. Good job.

[DoubleC]

Can you believe I really did it? No panic, no running screaming through the streets, LOL but man I'm worn out now.

[bluesman1951]

Speaking as one who has thousands and thousands of these experiences under his belt ,I would like to say well DONE ! Congradulations ! I am against the commission thing . One and only one way to do business CASH and CARRY but you must find this out for your self . Never make two trips to get payed ! I wish you good luck with this ,I have never seen it work not once in all my years . If its good enough to carry its good enough to buy ,simple as that . I could fill a ocean with compliments and aint that nice comments from people ,but last time I checked "Smiths " only likes money payments in exchange for their products . Compliments dont spend any better than board game money . I am very pleased that your day went well and you had some sucess with sales . I hope you have many more good days with sales . Rember "EYES WIDE OPEN ALWAYS" All my best BILL

[DoubleC]

I was just getting ready to write you. Yes I know commission and consignment isn't an ideal situation but it gets me a chance to have my work seen. Actually until I get some more made up the longer they take to sell the better. That's the more people get to see them locally. And hopefully order custom straps. So I hope it works out like that. He said when I had more to just go ahead and bring them in if I wanted. It was a great day Bill, it truly was. And no one really owns the gallery. He provides the space for local artists, and the artists themselves staff it. I wouldn't mind doing that too once in a while because I haven't gotten to spend nearly enough time in it looking around. Great day but really exhausted right now. Cheryl

[David8386]

Good job hardest part is selling, I really don't know if I could do that.

Good luck as always

David

[DoubleC]

It's not as scary when you're doing it as your imagination builds it up to be before. Trust me, 2 days ago I thought I was having a heart attack my anxiety was so high. Thank you David. Cheryl

[Horrrk]

You did really well, Cheryl and although, yes, its commission based, at least you got out there and presented both yourself and your work.

I know, it is a hard task putting yourself in the limelight and I'm sure, just as hard letting your work out to the public gaze, but it can be rewarding too.

I know from friends who own an art gallery / shop, that they sometimes have a 'Meet the Artist' evening, because people like to see the artist and be able to chat with you, plus that in itself, could either lead to new orders or to new ideas for future projects..so you getting out there and meeting the potential customers for your work is always a good thing..

If your jewelry is a little more on the country and western side of things for that small shop, there are other places, or maybe even have one or two pieces to sell, alongside your guitar straps? Perhaps if you consider the western side of things, some place that sells to tourists, would love to sell work by a local artist?

One thing to remember, is that not all jewelry shops will have that woman's...err...taste.. or her client base.. A different place could quite welcome your work with open arms and sell it too.

And you're right.. Spooky IS good..lol

Glad you had a good day anyways..

Take care

Phil