- ALL ABOUT BW:SILVER - (Survey Style)
Name: Brittany Wende
Nicknames?: "Britt", and formerly known as "BZ" by all my friends, but they still call me that...
Business Name: BW:SILVER
Why This name?: It's my initials, plus what I do...silver!
Business Location: Hubert, NC...but I'm a Marine wife to it's a traveling business...
Year Started: 2007
Type of Business: Custom & Handmade Jewelry
Media: Argentium Sterling, Sterling Silver, authentic gemstones, glass beads
Favorite Materials to Use: TURQUOISE STONES!
Products Sold: Chain and beaded necklaces, pendants, rings, earrings, cuffs, bangles, bracelets, etc...
Inspiration: Natural objects, antique jewelry, paintings & colors, fashion magazines, individual ideals, changing seasons, art books
Target Market: Anyone who enjoys handmade jewelry!
Price Point: Moderate to Best --everything is handmade!
Employees: 0
Office/Studio Location: My garage!!
Websites: 4 - ETSY, Artfire, 1000Markets, Blog
Social Networking Sites: Facebook, Myspace, LinkedIn (Be My Friend!!)
Where did you learn your craft?
It was my minor in college, I took a metalsmithing class just out of curiosity, I never knew it would turn into more than a hobby. I didn't know if I could get into it at first, but after my first few lessons, I knew I was really going to like it. My great grandfather was an ornamental metalsmith that came over from Germany to the US and started his metalworking business in TX. Since then, my Grandpa and my uncles and cousins has all carried down this business, and now I do the same...just on a smaller scale. I guess it's kind of in my blood?
What makes your designs different than others?
I try to design pieces that are eye catching, unusual, and unique. I feel that jewelry should reflect someones personality. Fun, funky, bold, simplistic, clean...I'm all of those! I have many different styles I like to incorporate into each piece. It's fun to play with different techniques and try new things to see if I can come across a totally original and unique art piece and someone can have & wear. I like that my work is mainly original and one of a kind, it makes each piece that much more valuable to the person. Jewelry should be loved too, not just worn!
What are your future business plans or goals?
I hope to have a wider customer base and maybe even a shop someday I can sell my work and other handmade artists works. I value the efforts of handmade goods and artists with those skills to make someones life a little more vivacious & fun! I would also like to learn more about jewelry making and metalsmithing, an apprenticeship with a silversmith artist or advanced metalsmithing workshops would be great.
I like working with silver just as well, but I think incorporating other metals would be nice too. It will also help to broaden my consumers. No everyone likes the look of silver, and I always like to try new things! Maybe one day I can be like James Avery!
Any current specials, sales, or shows going on soon?
As of now, and always, I have FREE SHIPPING on all items over $30! And that includes Canada & overseas shipping. And in the next few weeks I will be posting a LIQUIDATION SALE of items in my Etsy shop that MUST GO! ((They are cluttering up space for new jewelry pieces to come...))
All of my items are complimentary gift wrapped, boxed and ready to enjoy or give upon receipt. I can also do custom greetings on a gift tag to include on any items purchased. I don't have any shows planned as of now, but I'm looking into a November show in Wilmington, NC. Christmas is coming....
great interview! enjoyed the photo of you doing your art!
ReplyDeleteI love the pic you chose!
ReplyDeletegreat looking pics! Love your studded cuff! {:-Deb
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