Jewelry

[DukeBlueNan]

Very lucky bridal party! What a beautiful, creative idea. 

[muttmom]

12 @$125 is a nice chunk of change. That's a generous bride.

@Shanus

I guess you decided not to retire!

[Shanus]

@Libbylady. I suggested engraving the date inside when we were going to do a polished finish. You can't ingrave on a hammered finish..."bumpy". She said she'd enclose a personal note w/ each.

[CatLoverDogsToo]

Sounds lovely. I'd love to see a picture if that is possible. What a nice gift for the wedding party.

[Shanus]

@Kachina624. Definitely will get a 50% deposit up front before ordering the silver....Could never sell asst. bracelets w/ specific initials on them. My only recourse would be to melt them down and roll them back into sheet silver. Still a hefty expense if she changes her mind. When I complete 1/2 the order, she will pay the balance due before I continue with the rest of the bracelets. We have an informal contract w/ payment terms quite clear. 

This old dog has been burned a few times too many not to get the deal on paper and some money up front. 😜

[Shanus]

@Sweetbay magnolia. For a specific piece like that, I'm sure you have craftspeople in your area. Ask an art gallery where you see jewelry displayed to recommend someone to you...in fact get 3 names and 3 quotes. Prices by different artists vary greatly. 

Many times I'm competing in price against 1 or 2 other jewelers for a commissioned piece. I'd rather lose the deal than lose money on it. Jewelers that are just starting out will be less expensive, but be sure to ask for references. 

[Sweetbay magnolia]

Thanks for the tip, @Shanus.

I've not considered getting a custom piece.

[Shanus]

@muttmom. First...love the nickname.  Yes, I'm semi-retired. I only take special orders or commissioned pieces so I can pick or choose time involved. I did a few pieces for Mother's Day and 3 initial necklaces for graduation, also 2 cute Pearl and sapphire tiny bangles (both pink, but different designs for 2 different customers) for prom gifts to daughters. I had the tiny pink sapphires on hand from a gem show yrs. ago and was able to do those at a good price. 

After Mother's Day, Graduation was slow, so had time off. The "bridal project" will give me months to work at my leisure & may not take on another project until Sept. 

Yep. Semi-retired w/ lots of free time for yoga, travel, gym, my beagles, husband (didn't mean to put him far down the list), and son w/ granddaughters. My daughter's in WA & don't get to see her often.