MONOLISA is Celebrating 7 Years In Business
Posted by Lisa Ramos on
November 9, 2024 marks the seventh anniversary of starting my business, MONOLISA. Each year after some reflection I write a blog article about my memories and experiences through a series of "Questions and Answers" format. This year delivered lots of wonderful moments and fond memories along the way I am sharing in this article. So, lets take a peek down memory lane this year.
- What was surprising that happened in 2024? "Being quoted in the Mercury News." When they called to interview me I thought it was a joke. I was wrong."
- What was the hardest part of 2024? "Managing my back, hip and leg pain. A couple of days before a big show I pulled my back out. The timing wasn't great and managing the pain isn't easy. I also had to get creative with a zero gravity chair to use at my desk which has been amazing. My husband bought me a Lafuma Chair and put it on rolling wheels - now I can easily get in and out from my desk - my body loves it. On tough physical days I rely on and can use it when working on small jewelry projects"
- What was the most challenging show? "There were two shows that are tied. The first was the Fremont Festival of the Arts. Getting in and out of the show was challenging and often frustrating. There are cement barriers everywhere. Access to the bathrooms was too far for me because I went into the show with an inflamed leg so by the end of the show I was in a lot of pain. It took me several days to recover. If I didn’t have my ongoing physical issues I would have been fine. The second show was the Lafayette Art & Wine Festival. This year at the show the heat was unbearable. There was no wind in sight and the hot sun was beating behind my booth, making the inside feel like an oven - conditions are not ideal for selling. I drank 100 oz of fluids each day to get through it. I also sat outside my booth with a fan which helped. It was tough, but I got through it!"
- The biggest lesson I learned this year? "Staying overnight at some of the faraway shows is worth spending the money. Not having to drive back home after these long hard festival days made life much easier mentally and physically. It also made the show experience more enjoyable."
- What changes did I make to my studio this year? "I added a couple of new art pieces - which I love. I bought a Pink Chopin Chandelier handmade from recycled bottles that hangs beautifully in my studio. I also purchased another Simon Bull art piece that hangs right above my jewelers bench - I never get tired of looking at flowers. I added some new standing pads - my hips love. Standing on hard surfaces is a real challenge for me."
- What is my favorite MONOLISA jewelry piece and handbag I created? "For jewelry it was a 3.5 carat blue topaz gemstone ring. I love large faceted gemstones and always wanted to make 2-3 carat gemstone rings. It took me several years to gain the skillset before completing the gemstone ring collection. I am happy I trusted the learning process. Now I have a gemstone ring collection with lots of fun colors to choose from. My favorite handbag I made was a pink leather flower tote - pictured below. I incorporated my favorite color pink. I designed a handmade pearlized perfect pink color leather flower to pair with the bag. Let's just say it is one of my favorite bags I have made. If I had not sold it I would have been tempted to keep it myself. I can't wait to work on more next year."
- What new piece of equipment am I obsessed with? "My leather skiver." I always wanted one and this year I finally got it.
- What was I most nervous about this year? "Doing the Mushroom Festival in Morgan Hill. I had to do my booth setup alone and three days prior I pulled my back and hip out. Luckily, my back and hip survived and it was a successful show. A bonus when I arrived to the show my artist friend Helena helped me setup my popup tent - thank you! I just love the art community!"
- What was most fun about 2024? "Being at the shows seeing customers - styling them and catching up about life. I love observing when a customer likes a specific handbag or jewelry design and instantly connects with the piece. I also enjoy seeing all of the artists at the shows and catching up - lots of laughs and good times."
- What helped me do better at Art Shows & Festivals This Year? "There were three things. First, getting a portable Wi-Fi device that is a different carrier than my cell phone coverage. I can't believe it took me this long to get a reliable Wi-Fi Connection. There were numerous shows over the years where I struggled trouble-shooting my wireless connection on my phone. I wrote a blog about this topic - 3 Essentials to Help with Sales At An Art Show. Second, using an ipad to process my sales. I can see so much better using an ipad vs my iphone. Third, having a sales associate at my shows. It has helped so much with sales and being able to take short breaks. It has been amazing - Thank you Nancy!"
- If I could change anything about 2024 what would it be? "Not battling my aches and pains! It can be very challenging at times! I wrote a blog about this topic I am hoping will help others - Working Around Chronic Pain - 10 Tips”
- Favorite part about 2024? "Oh, that is so simple, seeing customers and being in my quiet studio creating."
- What am I most grateful for in 2024? "The continued customer support I receive. It allows me to do what I love doing, creating with my hands. Thank you so much to everyone!" Also, for my friend Nancy who helps me at shows....A HUGE THANK YOU! I can't believe I use to sit in a booth all alone for 10-12 hours.
- What was the easiest part about 2024? "Just doing what I do, creating and going to shows."
- What will I not repeat in 2024? "I am trimming down my show schedule for 2025. Since participating in over 180 art shows and festivals I now have the insight about which shows work best for my business model."
__________________________________
Share this post
- 0 comment
- Tags: Art & Wine Shows, Art Craft Shows, art festivals, Art Show Tips, Artist Blog, Artist Life, Artist Lisa Ramos, designer lisa ramos, handbag designer, independent artist, Jewelry Designer, leatherworker, Roadshow Artist, starting a business, women entrepreneurs