First Jewelry Show

I had my first real jewelry sale today and it went okay...I'm not a millionaire yet and I don't think I ever will be. Kim and I headed to the hospital at 7 A.M. and it took us about an hour to set up and put everything together the way we wanted. We had three 6' tables which gave us plenty of room for display but I was a little disappointed to find that the other seller next to me was also selling sterling jewelry. Her prices were higher than mine but her quality was better. I did notice that most of her customers bought the gorgeous costume jewelry that she brought, though. She also sold huge handbags that appeared totally ugly to me but her customers went wild over them. My Kim actually bought a silver bracelet and a pair of shoes from her. I have to admit her stuff was really nice except the handbags weren't to my liking.

The morning was rather slow but the lunch crowd was more willing to spend money. I ended up $105 over my costs so I'm content. It would have been nice to have sold more but that's okay. Kim and I packed up and left by 2:30 P.M. when the caffeteria closed. I had worried she'd be bored but she said she'd found it all interesting and it was so nice to have her with me.

The other vendor was very nice and offered some suggestions to help with my next show and she even told me which were the best hospitals to sell merchandise. I liked her very much but I hope I don't have to compete with her again!

People were interested in looking at the Swedish weaving runners I took along but none sold so I'm thinking I'd better forget about them. They just take up space. I also realized one of the major things I neglected to take was a mirror. I know I like to see what a piece of jewelry looks like on me before I buy it so I'd better get one for next time. Live and learn.

All in all, it was an interesting experience and it will get better as I learn what sells and what people are attracted to. They did like the glass pendants more than the silver but that could be because they were cheaper. None of the earrings sold so I'll steer clear of them. As long as I look on this as a hobby where I don't need to make a living from the profits then I can enjoy it. Something tells me I'll get better at selling with every show I participate in.