Rose of Sharon Jewelry

Recently I posted a reply in a jewelry business forum about selling handmade jewelry to a hair salon. I think this is a tough one for many new jewelry artists so I thought I'd reprint it for my blog readers.

The question was "What do I need to know before meeting with a salon owner to sell my jewelry?"

Most venues will want you to place your jewelry on consignment. It would be unusual to have them purchase anything out right but that is the best case scenario for you, the artist. Under a consignment agreement, you typically take the majority of the risk in hopes of selling someone. How your jewelry is displayed and cared for is typically out of control.

Be prepared for the consignment talk before you go. That means have a consignment agreement with you that outlines what you want to have done. Many stores will insist on using their own agreement which you must review before signing. Google "jewelry consignment" and you'll find sample agreements. Remember these are contracts but often the consignee (store) is pretty lax about honoring them.

In today's economy, it can be risky leaving your jewelry with someone who might not be in business tomorrow. I have heard stories of businesses closing with no warning and you never get your products back. Consider the store's longevity and community reputation before signing an agreement.

Don't want to scare you just want you to be prepared for the good, the bad and the ugly! Hopefully all will be good for you.

With that  said, don't mention consignment unless asked. Better to approach it as a sale and then adjust your "sales pitch" on the fly. Build in incentives for the shop to buy as opposed to just getting a cut when the item is sold as with consignment.

The most important advice anyone ever gave me is DO NOT UNDERVALUE YOURSELF and YOUR JEWELRY.

The economy may be tough but don't work for nothing. No one else does so why should artists. It amazes me that so many jewelry designers price their products so low. I know the cost of material even at large volume wholesale and I certainly don't want to make less than I deserve for my efforts.

Hope these tips help someone new to the handmade jewelry biz. Now I want to hear from you.

How do you approach salons, boutiques and other fashion-oriented venues to sell and/or consign your handmade jewelry? Tell us your successes and stories.