Gone, but not forgotten

One of my husband's co-workers asked him to ask me to bring some of my jewelry to a retirement party last night. She'd expressed an interest in it, he said, and wanted to see it.

I was really nervous about it because, well . . . I like what I do and think it's pretty but getting real feedback scares me. It's no fun to share only to hear the crickets chirping or "Wow- look at the time!"

But it went well. Really well actually. I sold two pieces. Which was awkward in a way because I hadn't really thought that anyone would want to buy what I had, just might say "could you make me this in blue?" I hadn't even thought about what I would charge for anything. They (a couple of other women came over as well) started asking me "how much for this?" and I sort of freaked. Well--not freak freak. I didn't start blubbering or spazzing, but I did feel really foolish for not considering it might happen and wouldn't being prepared be a smart thing to do?

But then I'm always surprised when people like what I do, and I've learned to have very low expectations so as to avoid disappointment. The flip side is that I feel overwhelmed by positive feedback and *cough* freak. I'm sure I made a right fool of myself stammering "I really don't know how much. I hadn't thought about it."

Which brings me to my "shout out" thank you to Sarah Marr, the spouse of one of my husband's collegues. She owns her own handbag company, Episode 39, and was so supportive and helpful in my unplanned distress. Thank you very, very much. *bows low* Also thank you to Marty for taking in interest in my work and starting the whole thing. *hugs*

One of the pieces I sold is pictured above. It's made from vintage buttons and some gorgeous turquoise czech glass beads. I was sad to see it go because I was rather fond of it, but who knows when I would've gotten a chance to wear it, so it's gone to a better place. I also sold another necklace of mine that I'm afraid I never took a picture of, but it's gone to a better place too. I'm sure it was bored to death hanging in my closet.

I was also lucky enough to get some "orders" for rings, so I've got "official beadwork" to do. Both literal and figurative: I've got to get over my shyness regarding cost. People deserve a professional transaction.