Time for a REDESIGN

After much thought, I think now is the time for an Elements by Dawn redesign! Given today's economy (I'm really tired of hearing and saying that phrase...but) now is the perfect time to reevaluate my business plan, marketing plan, polish some designs I've had floating in my head, and give Elements a fresh coat of paint, as it were.

For the past few weeks I've been researching web designers / graphic artists and I think I've narrowed my search to three artists (and their respective coders!). I've chosen a new color palette and am working on a fresh logo design and tag line too.

I almost can't wait to begin the redesign! However, knowing myself all too well, I think I'll need to put it off a bit until I revisit my business plan, or like most people....I'll put off the less desirable projects until the last minute. :)

Here's to the FUTURE!

Introducing: Elements by Dawn ~ Bridal

Looking for elegant bridal and wedding party jewels? Check out Elements by Dawn ~ Bridal!

This new jewelry line features stunning Swarovski Crystals, freshwater pearls, Swarovski faux pearls, sterling silver and 14kt goldfill. Custom orders are gladly accepted and I adore helping brides look their best!

I can ALMOST feel Spring in the air...

I love the Midwest. Truly. I have lived up and down the Eastern coast, and never really felt like I was "home." All of that changed in 2004 when my family moved to Wisconsin. My family originally hails from Wisconsin and my husband's family is from Michigan. Funny that it took me almost 30 years to return to my roots. Ah, but I digress.....

Where was I? Oh, yes. Spring! Today was a beautifully warm day. Most of the snow has melted off and tomorrow we're predicting rain. Maybe even a thundershower! The geese have started returning home from their winter grounds and before I know it, robins will be scurrying about hunting worms. Tiny buds will line the bare branches of our trees and Mother nature's color palette will soften.

Ah, Spring. Soft and vibrant greens, petal pinks, and daisy yellows. A time for rebirth and renewal.

What do you love about Spring?

February Birthstone

February's birthstone is the mystical and beautiful amethyst. Amethyst is a form of quartz and the word 'amethyst' translates from ancient Greek which means "not drunken." In ancient times, amethyst was worn to protect the wearer against, what else, drunkenness. In addition, the ancient Europeans believed it would protect them in battles.

Well, I don't know about preventing drunkenness or protecting me in battle, but I do know it is a gorgeous stone! Ranging from soft violet-pink to deep royal purple, this stone is a true beauty.

Most amethyst is found in Brazil, Austria, Russia, parts of Africa and India. In the US, amethyst of (generally) lower quality can be found in Texas, North Carolina and Maine. This stone was once highly valued and quite rare, however once it was discovered in Brazil, the stone became much more common and less valuable. But, I still think amethyst is quite valuable because of its color and ability to take on many shapes (smooth, faceted), it's fairly durable.

February babies, were your birthstone with pride and without fear of becoming drunk at your birthday party! OK, don't count on that last part! :)

Happy Valentine's Day!

Ah, Valentine's Day, a day for lovers, friends and family! A day for flowers, chocolates, greeting cards and champagne. As a jeweler, I suppose I should say, "a day for giving jewels and gems," but honestly....Valentine's Day (in my opinion) should be about expressing love and care for those around you. Show appreciation for your husband, wife, boyfriend, girlfriend, mother, father, children, family members and dear friends. Afer all, without them, there wouldn't be a traditional Valentine's Day to celebrate. :)

Cheers!

Happy New Year!

Welcome 2009!

This year I will....

• focus on eating healthier and being more active
• learn at least one new metalworking technique
• update/revise/revisit my business plan
• go dancing with my husband at least once a month
• read a "classic" novel
• laugh at myself more
• practice patience with my soon-to-be-teenagers
• learn a little html
• update my blog more regularly!

A word on workmanship

From time to time, as I browse art and craft shows, I come across a crafter who might have an excellent eye for color and design, yet neglects workmanship. Over and over again I pick up beautiful earrings only to discover the earwire ends have not been properly filed. Yikes! Who wants to put that through their ear?! If a crafter is going to take the time and effort to handmake earwires, why not take the little extra time and properly finish the item? The crafter's reputation is on the line! Moreover, all handmade jewelry maker's reputations are potentially on the line! If a customer buys a poor quality pair of earrings, how likely is that customer to buy any handmade jewelry again?! Likewise, if a customer purchases well made jewelry, the likelihood of a future purchase is probably pretty good!

Please, before selling your craft, take your item for a test-drive. Try it on, wear it for a day or two. Does it hold up to normal wear and tear? Is it comfortable? If not, what adjustments could be made to make the item better?

Remember:
Quality workmanship = satisfied customers, less returns and complaints, and more repeat business.