I'm Claiming it..So It Must be Mine!

I'm a true believer in that you will never get better, move ahead or grow, if you don't take some chances, step outside of your comfort zone and make some real "firsts". Goodness knows, I've challenged myself the past few years with a few things that have taken me outside of my comfort zone, like Toastmasters, Teaching classes, singing in the church choir...okay, that didn't last long, but only because of my schedule?? My point is.... with each new thing I challenge myself with, I've gotten better.

I remember my first craft show, now that was a real hoot! It was a very small one, mind you, but it was my first. It was a combination craft show/yard sale and it cost me $25.00! I had nothing, but a cd rack, some baskets, homemade props and some crooked table covering as you can see!!

Now... before you start laughing, I must tell you something about this show, not only was it my first, but I've continued to participate in this same show for the past three years, twice a year. Why? Because the proceeds benefit Relay for Life, I've done some great networking here, the customers from this show were my first test market outside of family and friends and the customers from this show are the ones who convinced me that I was on the right track with my jewelry designs. My show display has much improved over the years, and it's still a work in progress. I try to remain very humble in my business and keeping these photos around helps me to remember where I came from and who helped me get here.

So, why am I talking to you about firsts you're probably wondering. Well, today I entered my first Juried show! I've entered others that have requested photos of my pieces and called themselves juried shows, but I put them in a different category. Today I had to actually deliver 5 pieces to the committee location with resume and descriptions....Now that's a FIRST! I had to step it up a notch by adding a few new design originals that showed my capabilities and used different mediums. This local show only opens up to a few new artists every year, so I was pleased to have been selected to even submit my samples.

Now, am I excited, absolutely! but am I humble? You better believe it! If I get into this show, I'll be happier than a runaway pig, and I'll definitely be challenged to take my designs to a different level by October. If I don't make it this year, I'll definitely be applying again next year and to a few others, because I'm ready to take it to the next level and I've already claimed my spot in somebody's Juried show, and I'm not giving up until I make it! And after that....there will be another first somewhere waiting!

Think about a first you've been waiting to take on? challenge yourself over the next couple of months and JUST DO IT!!

Unveiling,
Dee
Visit Dee's jewelry website for more original designs.