"Beauty appears when something is completely and absolutely and openly itself."--Deena Metzger
It's been so long since I've posted, I am not sure whether to be embarrassed or try to sweep the absence under the rug!
So I will choose to do neither--I will stand up and say, OK folks, I've been a busy little bird and life has, well, just been busy.
The Sundance work is in full swing--I have just gotten my first Purchase Orders for the fall catalogs and I was just informed that three additional designs are going to be part of the Holiday books that Sundance sends out. I am thrilled. I am tired. I am scared as shit. And I am ready.
But this business has totally changed for me, which is why you haven't seen new work on my Web site or Etsy for awhile. I have been head down not only making pieces for the fall order, but also making samples for Spring 2011--Yea, I said 2-0-1-1!!!!
Buyers like Sundance work so far ahead that designers must, too. It's actually a good thing in that it forces you to think designs through more carefully, put together casts and get materials far in advance, shoot it and put line sheets together so it can go out by the end of this month/early June.
In addition to preparing for Sundance, I've also been doing some freelance writing work on the side for my old employer and a few others. The pay is great, the work is interesting, and it helps fund the massive amount of investment I am making in nabbing this Sundance business and eventually getting more from others. Turns out, I thought I was spending a lot before on materials--I have reached a new level! :-)
The combination of the two is all done after my first job is over--when my son goes to bed. To say that I am burning the candle at both ends would kind of be an understatement at this point, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
Despite my being so busy, I have learned that each day is a gift, and with it comes small blessings that must be seen, appreciated and enjoyed. It is for this ability that I am calm in my heart, not really even stressed that much.
So stay tuned, my friends, for what is to come. I guarantee the ride will be interesting. And I've saved a seat for each of you....
It's been a long time since I visited your little spot here, and WOW...lots of changes! Congratulations!! Sundance is lucky to have you!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad you are enjoying "the ride" so much! I cannot wait to see your work in the fall catalog - I am a die hard Sundance fan : ) I am sure it's inappropriate to ask, and you most likely won't tell, but how much inventory do you mean by "reached a new level"? I am curious because even though I feel like I spend a lot on materials I am sure it's not much compared to many other metalsmiths out there. I feel like I get by on very little. Anyway - keep up the great work!
ReplyDeleteHi Janell: Send me an email. I'll answer your questions to the best of my ability!
ReplyDeleteThis is so exciting!! I cannot WAIT to see you in the catalog!!
ReplyDeleteI'm sure you must be tired. I will pass on a saying I heard or read once: "A mother's work is from son up 'til son down." Pretty appropriate for you nowadays I'd say!
Very proud of you! And so excited for you! It truly is a blessing. A window may have shut, but a big door opened wide!