I have been asked to put my jewlery in an Art Gallery. Up until this point, I have been very hesitant to take this step, but I think I am ready! (and this gallery is amazing and cool, and I'd love to be a part of it!!)
So now I am making a mental checklist of things I need to ask, and things I need to do.
I have the contract, so I know the rules, agreement, and how the money is split.
Here are some good quesitons to ask before going into something like this:
1. What is the space like, what kind of displays will my jewelry be on? (so you know how to package it)
2. What is the inventory system, and do I do it, or do you?
3. What price range are they looking for? And what is target price range, or range that sells the best?
4. Does stock need to be rotated?
Then there is my jewelry. Should I have fancier packaging?
I know that hand written price needs to go away!
What kind of variety should I offer?
I think I am leaning towards a lot of earrings and tribal pendants, with hints of my traditional chunky pieces.
Anyhow- its all very very exciting, and I can't wait to get started preparing for this new journey!
Here is a link to the Gallery's website, The Copper Frog- I am so in love with it, and can't wait to get there in person and check out all this amazing art.
So, any suggestions guys? What did I miss?
19 comments:
Congrats, Staci! As far as what variety to offer, maybe you could ask the gallery what pieces motivated them to invite you in the first place. That would give you an idea of what they think their customers would buy. Of course, all your stuff is great!!
Also, I think your packaging reflects your style, I wouldn't change a thing. But if you're really worried about it, you could check out how the other things there are packaged and adjust yours accordingly.
Sounds fabulous! The only trouble I had with the gallery I was in was that they allowed the buyer to bring back the piece within three days for a refund. I found the ladies were buying them on Friday and returning them on Monday for a refund, which I did not know about ahead of time. Also they lost a pair of earrings, and even though it was listed in the contract that they would pay, they did not hold their end of the bargain. Not a big deal, but that, it did sting a bit.
I say bring a wide variety of things. There are so many different tastes in jewelry and you want to cater to them as much as you can.
I know your gorgeous jewelry will be a hit!!!!
That is beyond exciting-congratulations! I think you are on the right track with providing them with earrings, tribal pendants and some chunky necklaces.
Making sure you price your jewelry so that you make a profit when they take 50% retail....and not undercutting the price of your jewelry in the gallery with the same designs on your own website. The prices in the gallery should be the same on your website. Other then that...you hit it!
Congratulations! I would ask the gallery if you should price your items, or they will. Many have other information on the price stickers besides the price. If you price it, be sure to use removable stickers so that they come off easily. Customers will appreciate this if they're giving your work as a gift.
Congratulations!!! It looks like a really cool gallery and perfect for your designs! Keep us updated!
Congratulations, Stacy! What a beautiful gallery. Love the turquoise sofa. Your work is definitely gallery worthy. Sounds like you're on the right track. Can't wait to hear of your experiences. You might wanna see if they have gift boxes with their logo or if you need to provide boxes or gift bags. You want your beautiful jewelry to be presented artfully when given as a gift.
One more thing, as another poster commented, I would bring a variety of things to see what moves. You can always rotate things out. Especially with the holidays upon us, you don't want to miss a sale by having only one style available.
Great tips guys! Alice, I will add to ask about the return policy! Thanks for that tip!
Removable stickers for prices- check! Stacie- great tips as well. thanks so much everyone:) very exciting!
I think your packaging is perfect. A handmade packaging completes the feeling of a handmade object. The price written in pencil is fine but I would put it neatly in the bottom righthand corner. I am certain your show will be a success!
Lol, I was just reading the other comments. Yes, removable price stickers is better ; )
Congrats!! I'm in 4 galleries, and I agree with all the input here. I've learned and changed my packaging once or twice since starting. Each place has it's own personality and feel. I would stop in a week or so after your drop-off and ask the staff if they have any input or need you to change anything. (My first lesson was my tags on my pieces were way too large, I've since slimmed them way down) Your pieces are beautiful!
Congratulations! And Stacie's advice is right on - be sure your prices are consistent between what the gallery charges and what you charge for a direct sale to a customer. Also, check on their mark-down policy - if they want to put your piece on the 20% off table, be sure you'll still get the amount you originally contracted for as your portion.
Of course your awesome jewelry should be in a gallery, good for you!! I have jewelry in 3 galleries and I tend to create pieces just for each one because they seem to have a different atmosphere and personality, sell more of certain items, and each shop owner is different, too. I discovered this year that it would be extremely helpful to have a photo of each item before it goes out, even a group picture is good. You'll be a great success!
So so excited for you, Staci, your work truly is art and I am so proud to say I know you! <3
Congratulations! I've just embarked on this journey myself so as a newbie to the world of galleries, read your post with interest, taking on board the comments posted. Two pieces of advice I was given, make sure people can see your prices easily (my pieces are in a locked display case) and check the insurance policy for the gallery - what is their limit and do they cover you? Good luck - look forward to hearing more.
I'm so excited for you, Staci! Your work is awesome & so original--it deserves a place in a nice gallery like this one. Here's a virtual "high 5"!!!
SO excited for you!!!! The first time is just SO affirming and exhilarating!! My best advice for you and any other artist going into a gallery or shop is to keep tabs on them. Check in when you can. Do not go into a new shop if it's not local and you feel very comfortable with them. If its far out of town or not very well established, I would suggest selling wholesale to them, not consigning with them. Unfortunately I've learned this lesson the hard way. Also, if it's a gallery or co-op that requires a monthly fee you'll really have to think in advance about your prices in the event you have a non-sale month. Good luck Girl!!!!! I know how excited you are!!!!
This post is amazing! I love the crafts! And the packaging is perfect, too! Two thumbs up for this! Thanks for sharing. I really love this!
-SignatureJewelryPackaging.com
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