A Word About Photography

I would like to say a word or two about photography. I've looked at many pictures of items for sale and would like to give a word of advice. If you are trying to sell an item, take your photos in natural light if at all possible. Go outside and take your pictures. Try not to use a flash. A flash leaves bright spots on the item to be sold that could be interpreted as a flaw on the item.

Always think about your background and how it will reflect on your item. If you are photographing jewelry for sale, using mirrors in natural light will allow your buyers to see the front and inside of the piece and there will be no surprises for your buyers when they purchase your item.

Natural light will always showcase your item in the "best possible light."

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17556466

Vintage Jewelry For Sale

Beaded Vintage Necklace with Lampwork Beads and Silver Medallion
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17557018

Gorgeous Signed Lisner Adjustable Necklace
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17752288

Crown Trifari Bracelet and Earring Set~ Perfect!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=15508811

Please contact me if you are interested in any of these great pieces!
http://goodneighborvintage.etsy.com
You can see many more vintage items in my store. Thanks for looking. Take good care.

Vintage Jewelry for Sale

Here are some links to items from my vintage store, Good Neighbor Vintage.
The second plate in the King and I "Shall We Dance" Collection
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17753513

Olive Green Faceted Lucite Bangle with Silver and Gold Confetti
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17556466

Fabulous Pegasus Coro Bracelet that dates to WWII
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17555911

Thanks for looking! You can always contact me through either store with questions. I look forward to hearing from you.
http://northshoreclay.etsy.com
http://goodneighborvintage.etsy.com

Taking it On

I'm at a time in my life to make some decisions. My fiftieth birthday is coming up and I couldn't be more excited. I have found strength over the past year that I couldn't imagine that I had. For the first time in my life, I feel like I'm doing well, I feel strong and alive. I'm making my way in this life and in this world. I am busy but it feels good. Having a handmade store takes work, and making a success of it takes even more work. Having a vintage store takes work and hopefully, success will follow, but either way, I'm taking it on...

http://northshoreclay.etsy.com

http://goodneighborvintage.etsy.com

Networking or How to Have a Conversation

You know the old saying, "good things come to those who wait." In business, good things come to those who go get them. If you generally wait for someone else to start a conversation, it's time to take ownership. You own your own business right? Own your conversation too. That doesn't mean dominate the conversation, you need to learn how to be an effective listener as well and I'll go into that later, but for now, here are a few ways that you can break the ice regarding your business. Asking these questions of your conversation partner will automatically generate conversation. You might ask them:

• Describe a typical day on the job.
• What got them started in the area that they work?
• What ways have they found most effective to promote their business.
• What advice would they give to someone just starting out in business.
• What was the best job they ever had? What was the worst?
• Ask them to describe how the seasons impact their work.
• Ask them to describe the strangest situation they have ever encountered while working.

Let the natural person in you come out when talking with people. It's okay to take risks in conversation and anticipate success. Remember your sense of humor. Practice different ways of starting a conversation. It's perfectly acceptable to ask a person to repeat their name if you forget it. Be prepared to tell others something interesting or challenging about what you do.

Many of us dread going to a social gathering knowing that we will walk into a room not knowing a single person. These situations can be business networking opportunities at there best. Just remember that "small talk" connects us whether a gathering is social or business.

The ability to talk easily with people with a learned skill, not a personality trait. Acquiring this skill will help you develop positive relationships that last longer than any business card could. And finally, remember to smile and offer your hand for a firm handshake. In this day of contracts and technology, there is still something to be said for a handshake and a smile.

Chocolate Milk Scarf, oh so yummy

This cream and black scarf would be great for a guy or girl. Only $9.00

Boyfriend Scarf

It's Back! By Popular Demand the Boyfriend Scarf Is Back!

Girls, you wear it first, then slip it over his neck when he kisses you goodnight! It will have your scent on it! Is this a great idea or what?

$9.00

visit my shop

http://northshoreclay.etsy.com