As an entrepreneur, you’re going to self promote in acceptable and effective ways. The goal is to be an ambassador of creativity and art, not just a shameless pitchman. Remember (especially if you wear your beadwork) that you’re an artist promoting your beading and you’re on duty whenever you go out and about in the world. You never know who may cross your path. A potential customer, a shop owner looking for jewelry to carry, or who knows who? Because we make wearable art, we’re in the fortunate position to advertise without saying a word. And actions speak louder than words, keep that in mind, too.

Business cards are essential. In talking with other designers who sell their work professionally, I noticed that the majority had a fantastic photograph of their work on one side of the card, with simple contact information on the other: business name, your name, phone number, e-mail and web address . If you work from home and you don’t want to give out your street address, get a P.O. box to use as a business address. By the way, you don’t have to have a physical listing for an address unless you have a store front or gallery and want people to locate it. The rule should be short and simple. Your business card promotes your corporate identity, and can be used in places to make your business more memorable to the public.

Its easy to utilize your home office to create much of your business advertising. Your home computer, printer and scanner can assist you in obtaining quality business cards, brochures and more for a fraction of the cost of outside printing. And you're able to do them on a much smaller scale, say 25 at a time, instead of ordering a box of 1000 to get the best price. Also, if you keep a master copy of your labels, packaging, display materials, and cards, you can print them in house for a minimal amount.

Once you’re equipped with advertising tools, you’re going to go out there and be heard! Make it a rule to wear your jewelry. At the very least, wear earrings because they’re so noticeable. Anyone who comments on your jewelry get a business card, so keep them in your pocket. You’ll be surprised at how many you’ll give to people.

I’ll tell you from first hand experience: shop owners hate it when you stop in without an appointment with high hopes to show them your work. Their extremely busy running their business and they don’t have time to wedge you in. I advise you to visit shops to scope them out. Then you’ll know if the environment is right to carry your jewelry. If you believe it is, then take one of their business cards and plan to call them for a future appointment. If you get turned down when you call, then re-visit the store and give them one of your business cards. Let it speak for itself. And then once a season has passed, try again.

Once you establish a client, keep a record of their info in a file so you have a record of their history. Make notes about what they bought, who bought it and what kinds of preferences they have. Then you can bring them more tailored stock at your next visit. The more you know about them, the more you can prepare ahead to bring them what will appeal to them.