Sometime around the New Year, things changed... Business slowed right down... And it was difficult to determine why... I felt defeated and deflated... After so many hours working hard to build my business, it just seemed as though what I was doing was no longer relevant... Couple that with the growing number of difficult customers, I began questioning more and more whether the time I was investing was worth it... I've been surprised and saddened by how hostile and mean people can be... And I'm just not the type of girl that's cut out for that... I'm the kind of girl that lays in bed at night wondering what I could have done differently...
After some discussion with my loving husband, a big move that really drained us and a pregnancy that has left me tired and worn out, I reached the sad conclusion that it's time to put my Etsy shop on an indefinite vacation... I'm hopeful that I'll miss it... That I'll have some time to re-evaluate and perhaps feel inspired to re-open the shop at summer's end... We'll see...
For now, this just seems like the right thing... And despite the melancholy that I feel about this decision, it really was a dream coming true... A dream I didn't even know I had...
via 'Pretty Zoo'
Rebecca, thanks for your post today. First, I want you to know that my 15-year-old daughter and I loved browsing your etsy store. I wish we had been able to purchase something, but unemployment left us without a budget for extras. All of your pieces are so beautiful... elegant, yet whimsical. And it has seemed as though they are so much an expression of you.
ReplyDeleteWith that said, we enjoy your blog just as much. When I take a mini-break from the work of my life each day, I peek in at the little snippets you provide. Whether it's styles you've admired, color palettes that appeal to you at that moment, photos of your lovely family, glimpses into the seasons of your life... it's refreshing. And I know that it's the grace of our Lord shining through.
Don't remember how long we've been stopping by... more than a couple of years, I would imagine... but do remember that Tim Challies pointed me your way. And I'm glad he did.
You are so right, Rebecca. And I especially love that saying about dreams. Often times, when it happens right in front of our eyes, we just don't see it until we lose it.
ReplyDeleteBut congratulations on having fulfilled your dream! That says a lot! I'm sure when you have the time back on your hands, that'll be the time to revive your lovely Etsy shop. 2800 sales is amazing, and just don't ever let your dream/passion die down. Let it rest, and take a break, but keep the fire going. :)
All the best, R! And I hope you feel better. x
It's bittersweet and I wish you the best. As long as I'll still have your blog to read, I'll be happy. You're one of my favorites.
ReplyDelete♥ sécia
www.petiteinsanities.blogspot.com
Thanks for your lovely and encouraging compliments ladies! I'm so thankful for loyal readers out there!
ReplyDeleteRebecca, I'm sorry to hear about your shop. As a fellow etsy store owner, I completely understand about tough customers. The whole internet anonymity thing often does horrible things for common sense and manners! Congrats for having the strength the leave the negativity behind for now. I will continue to be an avid reader of your blog.
ReplyDeleteWarmly, Rachel Wiles, Benign Objects
I am so sad to read this. :( I don't understand why there are people out there who are so cruel. How discouraging that much be. I for one have really enjoyed reading your blog and following along on your jewelry making business adventures. You have been an inspiration to me with my journey in the etsy world. I have a long way to go...but I am learning. I hope someday you can reopen and feel refreshed and encouraged to share your art/beauty in the world again. In the mean time, I will be praying for you as you expand your family and adjust to a new house. Oh the places you will go. :) Be encouraged to know that there are many out there who care and love you! xx
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