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
