ImagineNations Network

Seth Burstein E

Industry: Entertainment/Recreation/Events
Boston, United States

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M B,

While I don't have any experience making either jewelry or handbags, I figured I would write to give some general guidance.

First, I will respond to your question with questions: Why do you want to design jewelry and handbags?  Do you have any experience in the field: buying, selling, repairing these items?  While it certainly isn't a show stopper if you don't have experience in the area, it certainly changes the landscape.

To me, it seems like there are three very broad things you will have to do: find a source of the materials, design/manufacture your product, and find a place to sell your product (assuming you are intending to make this a business).

First, you will have to find a place to source your materials.  Depending on the planned scale of your operation, this is not terribly important at first.  Eventually, you will want to ensure you are getting the highest quality material for the lowest price.  However, this is not necessary when you are first starting out.  That said, you still do need to have some materials and tools/machines to work with in order to get started.

Second is the design and manufacturing of your product.  I have a friend that sells a line of handbags.  She has formal design training at a design school and has been working in the fashion industry since graduating college.  Again, this is not necessary, but if you want to sell "luxury" products, they should somehow be differentiated from other products, either by having innovative design and/or the superior craftsmanship.  Without one of these two elements, there is little reason for a consumer to buy your products.

Lastly, you need to figure out where you will be selling your product and to whom.  Again, if you don't have extensive experience in the industry, I would recommend starting small and selling to family and friends.  If they buy, use and enjoy your product, then they can help spread the word.  It is also fairly easy now-a-days to set up an online store to sell your product.  There is also always the option to approach retailers with your product.

I was watching videos on entrepreneurship a few months back and one successful entrepreneur said that his response to any question is, "find a way".   I know my answer is a little vague, but I hope you find it somewhat valuable.  Best of luck with your business.

Cheers,

Seth

on 2/6/10

Nabil Shalaby S

Industry: Business Consulting/Coaching
Mansoura, Egypt

I recommend joining this group http://bit.ly/cWtdI9 to enrich your thoughts and ideas in the silver jewelry field

I wish you all the best of luck and success

Kind regards

Nabil

on 21/6/10