Member Feature: Julie (JulieGarland)

Featured: JulieGarland
Interviewed by: MySelvagedLife

How did you get started creating your line of jewelry?
About eight years ago I escaped winter and worked at a jewelry store in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for a few months and I loved being surrounded by all the shiny gems! When I left and moved to Dallas I took some basic jewelry lessons and started creating simple designs.

What was your background in prior to creating these items?
In my life before Etsy I worked in public relations and worked at agencies in both Toronto and Dallas. I mostly worked with travel clients which had the bonus of the occasional work trip to exotic locales!

How did you first get started on Etsy?
I actually started selling jewelry on my own Web site but while reading some popular blogs I discovered Etsy. I loved the site and the incredible array of handmade goodies you could find there. I joined three years ago and now I sell on Etsy exclusively. It was probably about a month after I joined that I discovered a nifty little feature called “the treasury” which would forever change the way I spend my free time lol!

What is your favorite part of being a shop owner on Etsy?
Being a part of the Etsy community and meeting all the other wonderful shop owners.

What is your least favorite part of being a shop owner on Etsy?
Probably dealing with non-paying buyers – it’s time-consuming to keep sending convos and following up with them.

What challenges have you faced during the process?
Hmm I would say coming up with the right price points for my jewelry and photographing my designs. The way you present your products is so important and I have probably re-taken all of my pictures at least five times. I’ve also watched my husband’s eyes glaze over again and again as I’ve discussed the merits of a light gray or lighter gray background!

What inspires you?
I could be inspired by something as simple as the color or shape of a gemstone. Or it could be an overall look I admire and I’m motivated to create pieces that work with it.

Describe your average day in one word
Happy! I get to spend it with my son.

Describe your style in one word
Classic. I like clean lines and nothing too busy or complicated.

What is your favorite season?
Definitely summer. Ahhh sweet summer I will miss you! Flip-flops, patios, cottages - really what’s not to love? I grew up in Ottawa, Canada so I’ve had my fill of snow and cold.

Apart from creating things, what do you do?
I hang out and play with my son. We go to the park a lot and this summer we went swimming as much as we could. I also enjoy Yoga and love to read so I always have a book on the go.

What advice would you give to sellers new to Etsy?
Really take the time to work on your pictures. I think interesting and engaging pictures are a big key to success on Etsy. And get involved in the community in some way!


Visit JulieGarland's Etsy Shop!