068 – A 9 to 5 Salary from An Etsy Shop with Angela Lee

Angela Lee opened her first Etsy shop in 2008 to sell simple jewelry that she created at her desk while working at a domestic violence hotline. Over the next few years, she developed her skills as an artisan. As her customer base grew, her hobby developed into a full-time business. Today, Brightsmith sells custom, handmade jewelry to people seeking effortlessly wearable pieces with an emphasis on craftsmanship. She still also works as a public interest attorney, serving Austin Texas’ thriving community of artists and musicians. Business Inspiration How her jewelry business “happened.” [4:22] The beginning of selling online [6:42] Candle Flickering Moments Adjusting to seasonal lulls and what to do to make that time productive [19:01] Business Building Insights The background of a business was a surprise attraction for Angela [8:58] Why Angela shut down her shop for two years! [12:44] Managing your business growth – a cautionary tale [14:14] Reopening the shop full time [16:13] Photography tips and the importance of white balance [23:35] Rebranding and packaging [25:12] Etsy Specific Information Etsy support systems [9:44] Advice for starting up your Etsy shop [10:51] Etsy order process flow [26:30] Success Trait Angela is a natural problem solver and is also very resourceful. She believes there is a solution to every problem. Productivity/Lifestyle Tool Craftybase – Inventory and bookkeeping for handmade sellers Valuable Book The Complete Metalsmith by Tim McCreight Contact Links Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Etsy Shop If you found value in this podcast, make sure to subscribe and leave a review in Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts. That helps us spread the word to more makers just like you. Thanks! Sue