Can I make it as a jewelry artist?

I've got today off from my regular job so I intend to work in the studio. I'm setting up for the open house, which starts tomorrow afternoon. I have ideas I'd like to work on, probably won't get anything ready before then.

I'm also making cinnamon rolls to take to a friend. I'll be hopping between the house and barn most of the day.

I've got to get off to a good start with my morning workout at Curves.

There are pros and cons, but to me, it is better than nothing and for many, it's the only source of exercise they will get involved with.

I should know as a former owner of two Curves, that was the story with many of our customers.

I made several good and lasting friendships during my years as a business owner.

The upside was being your own boss, the downside was I had a business partner and as it turned out, things happened that were uncontrollable and we ended up selling the businesses.

It was a learning experience, one that I have chosen to grow from.

It was sort of doomed prospect in the first place, people wondered if we were just going to close up shop as our building to the ground in a bizarre fire that took our an entire square block in Osceola, Iowa, in 2004. As a Phoenix, we rose from the ashes an opened a new place on the square and added another business to the mix.

My jewelry business is my endeavor, so I have no one to help or hinder.

I have to stick my neck out there and test the waters, maybe I'll turn this into a real business and maybe not, I am the one to do it.

I read information on the Internet on how to promote your business and it's work.

Blogging and social networking are important in this day and age. One jewelry artist said if you aren't socially connected online, people will consider you out of touch, it can hurt your business.

Far be it from me to be socially challenged. Sometimes, I think about chucking the whole blogging thing, because it doesn't seem to be getting me any followers as of yet, but then I'm of an age where I want instant gratification now. Maybe it's because I grew up in a time when if you wanted something badly enough you saved your money until you have enough to buy it and didn't use credit cards.

Doesn't sound like such a bad way to go does it? But, as I digress, I will try to stay on task. It's not easy starting a business, but I must admit, a franchise, although a more expensive alternative to starting a business, tends to provide a good support network. Of course they do, they want all franchisees to do well, so they will continue to make money.

As a jewelry designer and artist, you are on your own to research your best markets and the venues where you want to show your work.

I would like to have a retail outlet for my jewelry, get some exposure, but it has to be the right outlet, and it has to present my jewelry in a positive atmosphere.

I'm trying to step out of my comfort zone and market my jewelry line. I know it isn't for everyone and there may be a limited market, but at least I'm going to give it a try.

The first step was to take it to craft show, then I put some on Etsy, but haven't sold any.

Now, I'm having an open house. I have to keep a positive attitude where it's concerned. I hope for a big success. I just have to try and not give up hope.