I began 2011 with a new logo designed by Tracey of Edward and Emma. I have to say that having a proper logo really made a difference and I've used my hearts to visually brand Poppy Sparkles, using the hearts from my logo as avatars online and on printed material. I also include some handpunched heart confetti in my jewellery giftwrap, which from customer feedback is well received.
I increased my online stockists and shops and was pleased to be accepted to sell with From the Wilde , Dorothy and Theodore and most recently BOUF.
It was amazing to see a number of press features for my jewellery in publications such as Make Jewellery, Perfect Wedding and County Wedding Magazines. Having a full feature on myself and my jewellery in Lancashire Life magazine was particularly great.
Struggling to promote myself through my blog, I found myself featuring the work of others more and more. As I honed my blogging, the stats kept rising. As an English graduate and teacher, it's been interesting to analyse the stats and see what works and what doesn't.
I'm rather proud of all that I achieved in 2011 and sometimes marvel at how much I managed to do whilst also being a fulltime stay at home mum to two lively children!
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| Retro Calendar Poster by Yumalum on Etsy |
My biggest goal is to extend my stockists offline. I would love to see my jewellery in a real bricks and mortar gift shop.
Generally my aims are building on 2011 - further press mentions would be lovely. I will also finish my new online shop website, which took a bit of a back burner in the last month or so.
I want to improve my product photography and would love to capture my jewellery in some inspiring lifestyle shots.
I'd love to have more grand goals, but the next few months promise to be rather busy and manic for us as a family, possible remaining so for much of the year. With this in mind, I have had to reassess how much time I have available to work on my jewellery and blog - something has to give and I'd rather it wasn't me from taking too much on.
Taking some time out for Christmas has made me realise just how lovely it is to really rest and do things for pure relaxation too. And so, I have decided that for now I will no longer be blogging daily in the same way that I did. I will also be taking more time out to show my Kindle some love, relax with some craft projects and make the most of my little children whilst they are still little and want me to play shops, complete jigsaw puzzles and make cakes! When people say kids grow up too fast, they aren't joking and I don't want to miss these special years as they amaze me with their development, learning and general cuteness.
Although, I have less time to work on Poppy Sparkles, I will still be working to realise more potential from my handmade jewellery. I have design ideas I want to create and share and despite having to cut back a little I intend to be able to move things forward. I guess 2012 will be the year I have to learn to work smarter - less hours, but greater results.
Before I sign off, I would like to thank you all for your support throughout 2011. Whether it's been reading my blog, chatting with me through the comments, twitter or facebook, purchasing or admiring my jewellery. I really value that support, so thank you.
And, here's to 2012. the year I attempt to work smarter - less faffing and more action with results!
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