Hi everyone
27 days to go to Christmas - with the mild weather we have been having, seems a little strange to be rushing towards a time that we often associate with snow, cold weather. In fact at the events I attended over the last few days, people were commenting that this time last year travel was difficult, the temperature was bitter and we were knee-deep in snow. Lovely though it is to look at, please Mr Weather Man, keep the snow away for as long as possible.
It has been a very busy week in Christmas Pie Crafts land. Three events in four days and I feel very tired. Events have been busy, but spending is quite sporadic. Certain items (food produces (pickles, jams, mustards) are always popular) sold well; bought-in items (shoes, handbags, jewellery) also did well; handmade doesn't seem to be doing very well at the moment, although I am not sure if this is UK-wide or just in certain areas. The events I have attended have been very well organised and the footfall was good, each one had a good selection of products. A friend emailed me yesterday evening to let me know of another event that took place in Surrey yesterday that only had 30 people through the door. So, what is the answer? Handmade items only or a mix of handmade and bought-in? I have taken part in both and I really don't know the answer - my crystal ball is a bit cloudy recently (must be the snow on the way!).
I have been trying to find out recently what customers actually want or look for when they go shopping. Most have said they want to buy items made in the UK, quality and value for money are at the top of the list too. Unfortunately, nobody has yet said why they wouldn't buy handmade - so will keep on trying to track down any possible reasons for low sales. Has anybody else carried out any sort of survey to find out how people feel about handmade goods?
Several months ago I started a range of mini-cards - they had dual purposes: gift cards (with envelopes) or mini greetings cards. These have sold really well and this, I am sure, is due to a single price of 60p or 5 for £2.50 - everyone loves a bargain. I added to the range with Christmas themed cards and these have also proved to be very popular.
Less than four weeks to Christmas which means not many Handmade Mondays left either. I completed an order over the weekend for a birthday card for a rugby loving penguin fan. I was going to post a pic on this blog, but the recipient is a possible blog-viewer and as his birthday isn't until later in the week, thought it best not to. Instead I am including a picture of a butterfly-themed card I made during the week. I love butterflies in crafting and think they add a gorgeous look to cards. This is a stepped card and I have used butterfly-flower themed background paper and added silver/glitter decoupaged butterflies as well as butterflies cup form paper I had in stock. Don't forget to check out the other
Handmade Monday bloggers - gorgeous makes that you really must see, and of course read the great blog posts.
I am having a bit of a restful day today - I have two card orders to make up and will spend some time making final items for this weekend's event.
Have a good week everyone - I will be back on Wednesday with my mid-week post.
Jill
