I love Etsy.
No big surprise there. I buy and sell mostly from Etsy and I wouldn't have it any other way. This morning I came across one more reason why being a part of the Etsy community truly is the best.
Meet my new friend Amanda from MandysCharms. Not only is she from England (I love meeting fellow Etsian from different countries) but she is a young entrepreneur who creates some fantastic jewelry. Check out her story:
What makes you unique?
Hi, I'm Amanda and I'm based in Milton Keynes, in England :) I make cute and quirky jewelry ranging from clay charm jewelry, to potion necklaces and leather wrap bracelets. I fell in love with crafting when I was young, and have been making ever since! I think that my shop is a burst of fun color, and that makes it unique.
When did you first discover Etsy?
I first started on Etsy after hearing about it from a friend in passing. Before I'd never really thought about selling my jewelry online; I would just stick to family and friends. I looked around Etsy and thought,"Hey, if these people can do it, so can I!" So that was how my interest in Etsy was sparked.
I opened shop to sell the things I make, so that I can make more! I'm always trying out new ideas, and Etsy is a great way to support new ventures. I've been interested recently in trying out metal stamping to make jewelry for my family.
Is Etsy your full time or part time business?
Etsy is a part-time business as I haven't come far enough to make it into something bigger. I do hope to one day to own a successful shop to be very proud of, and I hope that my work will inspire others to take up crafting or sell online!
Where does your inspiration come from?
I'm very inspired by color, and different color palettes and shades. I could browse colour palettes all day if I could! Sometimes I see a color scheme I adore, and take inspiration from it, for example my peacock themed leather wrap bracelet!
What is your favorite item in your shop and why?
Oh, I really like my creations and it's hard to choose, but I love this honey jar necklace. I just love the idea!
What is your favorite part of being a part of the Etsy community?
My favorite part of being in the Etsy community is the friendly atmosphere and support in the forums, teams and more! No one is looked down upon for being new or for not knowing much about Etsy. Everyone helps each other to the best of their ability, and there isn't a sort of 'Pecking order' among members.
Who or what has been most influential in being where you are today?
Hm....I think that all the wonderful sellers on Etsy have inspired me to be here, with supportive comments, help and inspiration. Without them, I may have given up long ago!
When did you know you were an artist/maker?
When I started out selling to friends, and started receiving compliments and people telling me that I should sell more- It gave me a huge confidence boost for people to tell me that they would buy my items.
Where would you like to be in ten years?
I would love to still be making and selling, as this is what I enjoy most.
If you could share one tip with a new Etsy seller, what is the most important thing to learn and why?
Don't be afraid to ask questions! There is no such thing as a 'stupid question'. Don't feel nervous asking for help or support on the forums or teams, everyone as to start out somewhere and there is a steep learning curve.
Accept criticism and learn from it, stay optimistic, learn a little more every day and have fun!
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