Ok -so I am a little early for New Year's, but I will go ahead and wish you a very Merry Christmas and bright and blessed 2012. I hope that it is a happy and prosperous year for us all! I am going to go ahead and give my wrap up for this year while I have the chance. =)
I did quite a few shows in Oct, Nov and Dec - a total of six which is the most I have ever done in that short amount of time. I have had some success with them and have several special orders that I am working my way through at this time. I love doing special orders - and I have figured out that at least 50% of my sales are special orders.
The success that I have had with my shows this fall has really given me a glimpse at the potential and possibilities for my business - and I am really excited at what I am seeing. For 2012, I am going to be looking at the possibilities of a retail environment as well as trying to get into larger shows. This means I will be spending lots of time working on inventory. I guess it is a good thing that I love doing it!
I am also thinking about trying to learn kumihimo. This is a ceremonial form of Japanese braiding that was useed by samurais to create cording for their swards and armor. It can used with or without beads and can use various fibers: silks, satins, wool, cotton, etc. I am always looking to learn something new, so this is an interesting prospect for me as well.
I've been having some photo software issues and hope to get that resolved at the beginning of 2012 (perhaps with income tax money). I may have some help with taking pictures as well (in the form of co-worker), so I am hoping that 2012 will also show a large increase in inventory to my shop. YAY!!!
For all of those you who have supported my business in one form or another - whether it be by buying, whether it be a word of encouragement, whether it be sharing my page or telling someone about me, I thank you from the bottom of my pea-pickin' heart. You make me happy with your encouragement in whatever form it comes. Thank you, thank you, thank you.