I've been quiet around the blog the past couple of weeks, but I'm back today and I wanted to share a little bit about my goals for 2014. I'm not normally one to make a big fuss about New Years, setting some unattainable resolution(s) on January 1st, only to fail or forget about them before spring even arrives. While I don't plan to make any bold, set-in-stone resolutions for 2014, I do have some modest, general goals that I've set for myself.
I feel like I'm in a sort of transitional period in my life. I'll be turning 27 this year, finally feel like a bonafide adult, and am feeling the pressure to accomplish a few things that are important to me before I hit the big 3-0. Naturally there are a few goals I'd like to meet this year to nudge me along the path to being the successful woman I'd like to become.
In general, I'm going to wholeheartedly focus this year on growing my
jewelry business and this blog. While I've been running a business since 2006 and this blog since 2008, I've really let my shyness and insecurities hold me back from going places over the years. While working on the shyness is going to be a lifelong process, I have resolved to be more diligent with updating my online shop, posting here on the blog, and generally giving my businesses my all.
I started working with a graphic designer last fall to brand my businesses and create a new website/blog. While the work isn't entirely in my hands, I'm hoping the whole process will be complete before year's end. I think the pick-me-up in branding will help establish a recognizable look for my business and blog and create a more professional appearance overall.
This year I'm making some investments to expand my skills and to improve my craft. After years of wanting to take up metalsmithing, I've finally splurged on some of the basic tools I needed to do so. I'm also in the process of learning mold-making and resin casting so I can begin reproducing the vintage flowers that I so dearly love to use in my designs. These are two new skills that I've wanted to learn for some time, but I'm thrilled to finally take the leap. As these new skills elevate my work, I'm going to apply for a few more prestigious art/craft shows this year.
As far as life in general is concerned, I'm hoping that I can make some advancements this year in being a more organized, productive person overall. Again, no set-in-stone resolutions as far as this is concerned, but I'd like to feel a little more put together come 2015.
I can already say I'm well underway working on accomplishing my "learn to metalsmith" resolution. I've started making some simple, slim sterling silver textured stacking rings which are
now available in my
Etsy shop for purchase.
These sterling silver stack rings have really sparked a major passion and I'm excited to learn more techniques in metal. I hand form, solder, hammer, and polish each of these rings by hand. The entire process is utterly thrilling and addicting. As I'm able, I plan to expand my collection of metalsmithing tools so I can continue to explore new techniques and projects. This is just the beginning!
I'd love to know what you goals and resolutions are for 2014. Any tips on staying motivated when your resolutions are less-than fun?
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I've been adding some new pieces to my shop this afternoon. This first necklace is a similar style to the very popular Oui, Darling Necklace. I call it the Non, My Love Necklace. ;)
These earrings are one of my favorite pieces at the moment! They are styled after the incredibly popular and currently sold out The Prancing Peacock Earrings. While The Prancing Peacock Earrings were a bit whimsical and quirky, these Date Night Earrings are much more romantic and feminine. I only have one pair available at the moment but I plan to have more available soon.
The A Rose for My Love Necklace is currently available with your choice of three different colors. Choose from a red, pink or blue rose cabochon.
Lastly, the Hopeless Romantic Necklace, one of my best selling designs, is back in the shop.
From now until midnight EST on July 3rd, send in a photo of yourself wearing your favorite That Winsome Girl design and you'll be entered to win a $20 gift certificate!
For all those who were interested in the Oui, Darling Necklace when I first posted about it back in March, I know have it available in my shop!
Also in the shop is this adorable necklace featuring the cutest vintage brass bunny charm ever! I call it BunBun and the Cabbage Rose and it's inspired by a close friend's seriously cute bunny. I love the vibrant colors and the whimsical design. I think it's a perfect necklace for the sunny days of summer!
{Please click to view larger.}
According to the stats from CraftCult, the treasury which featured my earrings appeared on the front page this morning at 8am. Fortunately/unfortunately the earrings sold at 8:23am, so they didn't receive as much front page glory as possible. I have gained quite a few new shop and item hearts from the experience! This is so exciting as I've been hoping and waiting to see one of my items on the front page for years. It's a real honor!
Just a little update for those who were interested, The Prancing Peacock Earrings are now back in shop and available for purchase in my Etsy shop.
Click the photos to view them larger.
I listed a few pairs of new earrings in the shop tonight! The first pair is a bit more vibrant than my usual color palette, but I think they are playful and perfect for the spring and summer weather so many folks are craving lately.
I am also very fond of slim, simple stack rings. I love the look of a sleek, hammered ring. Stack rings are fabulous as you can wear one, a few, or many! I love the way they look when different metals and finishes are paired together.
