We were lucky to catch up with Sherri Robinson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Sherri, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear how you think where to draw the line in terms of asking friends and family to support your business – what’s okay and what’s over the line?

Asking family and friends to purchase from me is uncomfortable, although both have done so, and some have even commissioned special pieces. Instead, I have asked family and friends to support me by liking my social media posts, sharing posts, and commenting. They also support me by passing along my business card, especially when someone compliments them when wearing one of my designs.

Sherri, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve always loved making jewelry. I remember making bracelets and necklaces by stringing buttons on thread at my Grandmother’s house when I was a little girl. She didn’t have much, but we always had fun, and the times spent with her are among my most precious memories.

When I was 10, my family moved into a neighborhood that was still under construction. I gathered bits of colored wire from houses that were being built. From this wire, I made bracelets and earrings for the kids on the block.

After the birth of my second child, I began making name bracelets for other mothers, as well as jewelry for family and friends. It was something I truly enjoyed, and it was great therapy as well.

In 2023, I experienced a health issue. After completing treatment, I decided to make my lifelong hobby into my business. Life is too short not to do the things you love.

Then as now, my pieces are a labor of love, and it is my wish to offer unique creations that inspire and delight those who wear them.

Do you sell on your site, or do you use a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc?

I created my own website last spring. I wanted creative control and a place to send potential customers. I really enjoyed the experience, and I have many visitors each month. My biggest challenge is driving traffic to my site. I also maintain an Etsy store, which is where I started out. Etsy brings visitors to my shop that might not otherwise find me. However, competition is fierce, and I pay fees to Etsy.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

My customers come from multiple sources. I spend a portion of most days posting on social media. It has taken a bit of time to understand who my customers are and who I want to market to. My website, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn have been great places to connect with new customers. Just last week, a gentleman reached out to me on Nextdoor because he saw a post of mine. Also, I participate in artisan shows and events, resulting in some great, long-term relationships.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dancingrabbitjewelry.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dancing.rabbit.jewelry/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571262182020
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherritrobinson/
• Other: https://www.pinterest.com/dancingrabbitjewelry/