My Journey in the Bead World
I'm so glad to have found a blogging platform I truly connect with. While it might not be the flashiest
or most heavily promoted, I've learned from experience that Blogger is fantastic at seeing your content
on Google Search, websites, newsletters, and other platforms.
March 2025 and a Fresh Start
Can you believe it's already March 2025? This year, I've been diligently working on my newsletter,
MOoK, which I launched in the summer of 2024. MOoK stands for Making Order Out of Kaos,
and it perfectly encapsulates my journey of rebuilding my online store. It's been like piecing together
a complex jigsaw puzzle, with so many scattered elements needing to form a clear
and recognizable whole.
Navigating Life's Challenges
I've faced my share of challenges, both personal and those arising from the wider world.
These situations have definitely contributed to the "Kaos" I mentioned, requiring me to redo
much of my work from the summer of 2024—twice!
A 23+ Year Love Affair with Beads
The bead world has been a constant source of joy and inspiration for me for over 23 years.
I've never been disappointed by this vibrant community. My initial exposure was through
incredible bead importers and suppliers in NYC. Living in New Jersey at the timeI cherished my regular 45-minute trips to York Beads, where I'd pick up beads requested
by my customers.
Overcoming Setbacks and Rediscovering My Passion
Some years ago, a car accident left me with a disability and forced me to take a break
from selling beads. While I focused on adapting to my new physical state, my customers
continued interest in my unique beads from quality suppliers kept me going. I tried to keep
selling as much as I could, but eventually had to temporarily shut things down.
I held onto all my inventory and would occasionally sell on platforms like Etsy. However,
I felt I hadn't fully recovered, and when orders surged again, I had to close shop to avoid
receiving poor reviews.
Honoring My Father and Reigniting Creativity
When my Dad came to live with me, I had the privilege of caring for him. He surprised me
by adopting cats, and after he passed away, I started an Etsy shop called Cat House Beads
in his honor.
After some time, I realized I still had a passion for beads and a strong desire to sell and create.
I'd taught myself various beading stitches and developed a unique earring style. When I wore
them to an event, people wanted to buy them right off my ears, and that's when I began taking
customer orders.
The Journey to Rebuilding My Online Presence
This brings me to the summer of 2024, when I began rebuilding my website.
I encountered some issues with my hosting provider, so I also set up shops on
Etsy and eBay to reach a wider audience. However, I found that their policies had
changed significantly, resulting in long payment processing times.
Considering the fees, policies, and time investment—which I'm happy to make, but
it feels like it primarily benefits their, the selling venues brands and leaves little time
for us to focus on building our own brands—I've analyzed the past year and my current situation.
I've discovered a kind of reverse business building method that gives sellers more controlover the products they've poured their time, money, and love into. I plan to document this method
for other sellers who want more autonomy.
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