Vendor Journeys – Sugar Jewellery

Meet Ms Sugar our Jewellery Crafter

What do you make?

I make jewellery.  Over the years I have made a variety of jewellery and find that i get “obsessed” with something.  At the moment it is with heart pendants.   My range include earrings, ankle bracelets, bracelets for men and of course necklaces.   I have in the past been commissioned to make pet necklaces, so maybe I will start with those again.

How did you start?

Sugar Jewellery started out of necessity.  I lost my husband suddenly to covid in 2021 and was left to raise 3 boys under the aged of 10.  I am a teacher by profession, love my job, but just needed a little extra.  I love crafting and accessories and have always been dabbling in something, from knitting, painting, sewing and settled on making jewellery.

Where/How did you start selling your jewellery?

Initially I only made jewellery for family and friends, mostly for birthday and Christmas presents.  I was not confident to ask for money for my creations as I really have such fun making them.  This was prior to 2021.  My collogues at school started commenting on my necklaces, bracelets and rings.   And so my journey began, making orders and then a few markets here and there, mostly at the church and school.  It was in December 2021 when i became serious about my supplementing my income.  I cant believe it has been 2 years, it is like yesterday when i was worried about what colour rope to use which each pendant.

Challenges you had/ have to overcome

In the beginning, I struggled a bit to master the art and techniques required to make my wares.  As everyone with a side hustle knows, running a business requires juggling various tasks, from creating new designs to managing orders, marketing, my formal job, my kids and life in general. Balancing these task

s while ensuring quality and meeting deadlines can be challenging.  I then decided to join Featsy, so that the marketing and social media is taken care of.

Any advice for fellow crafters? 

Don’t give up and believe in yourself.  It seems that everyone has an opinion and advice – choose who you listen to carefully because not everyone knows you or has your best interest at heart.    It takes time to get going and make sales.  Sometimes it is so frustrating – there is so much interest and queries but no sales and then suddenly …… it all works out.  And don’t forget to have fun and enjoy yourself. 

Looking ahead

I have not got any formal expansion plans for Sugar, but am hoping that it will grow organically and that I will find a market for my wares.

My favourites time of the evening is when the house is quiet, the kids are in bed, I have finished all my marking and I have a few hours to myself to make my necklaces.  It is definitely cheaper than therapy! It gives me time to think and relax after a busy day with a small glass of wine and my tools.

 www.Featsy.co.za/store/Sugar/