We recently connected with Stacy Wagner and have shared our conversation below.

Stacy, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

My mom raised me to work hard for the things that I wanted out of life. We didn’t have much money growing up, and so we focused more on meaningful experiences and time together as a family rather than on “things.” Although I’m not always successful at limiting material items from my life, I feel like this was a good lesson, especially in today’s world. We are constantly surrounded by “stuff” in our daily lives, on social media, etc., and most of these things are not needs, they are wants. It’s ok to want things, but I’m trying to remember those values. It’s ironic that I have a small business that makes earrings and accessories as these aren’t “needs,” but I feel like they can be enjoyed by everyone and add a little fun to life.

Stacy, 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’m an engineer by day, and when I have time I make earrings and accessories. I’ve always enjoyed creating things, and I’ve been making earrings and jewelry since I was a kid. I started Swags Collection as a way to expand on my love of creating and not end up with 500 pair of earrings just for myself. I enjoy being able to create fun colorful pieces, and to try new ideas. Sometimes they work out and sometimes they fail, but I enjoy the process.

Originally, I was only making polymer clay earrings, however, this past year, I’ve started selling beaded earrings, keychains, hairclips, and zipper pulls as well. I also make custom earrings when requested. I’ve even started taking some of my grandmother’s old fashion jewelry and using the pieces in earrings I create for myself or for my family. It’s a fun way to bring new life to something, and it reminds me of my Grandma.

I want people to feel a little bit of joy when they find that perfect color or style of earring they have been wanting.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

I have to be honest, it as been slow to grow my clientele. However, I have found that family and friends promoting my products has been very helpful. It’s also important to listen to what clients want and like, they will tell you if they like a product or not.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

No, I’ve always remembered the saying…”life happens while you’re busy making plans for it.” Regardless of how my small business or career turns out, I’m glad I’ve taken the step to find out. There’s never going to be a perfect time or place, other than the time and place you’re currently in.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://swagscollection.square.site/
• Instagram: @swags.collection
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SwagssCollection
• Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SwagsCollection