Maille Milestones: Thank You for an Incredible Year!
When my year-end report showed 2,555 pieces of jewelry sold and shipped in 2024, I had to pinch myself. I knew I’d been a busy weaver, but that large—and nice-looking!—number was a surprise. I’m overflowing with gratitude for each and every one of you who has supported my passion, whether by purchasing one of those 2,555 pieces, sharing my work, or simply liking one of my social media posts. Every little bit means the world.
For those who've been with me since the beginning (almost 22 years ago!), you know I began teaching early on in my chainmaille journey started with teaching. When I started offering classes and kits, that side of the business, Blue Buddha Boutique, really took off. It grew into a seven-figure business with manufacturing, a retail store, and an incredible staff. I wouldn’t trade that experience for anything.
But if I'm honest, a part of my heart wasn't being nurtured. I followed all the standard advice about working on my business, not in it, and while that led to incredible growth, it also meant less time spent doing what I truly love: creating. My soul missed sitting down with a pile of rings, and linking them one by one to form something new.
This past year has been very therapeutic. I finally carved out the time to immerse myself in my jewelry, spending hundreds of happy hours doing something I’m passionate about. It's been a dream come true in a different way, a return to my roots. I’m perfectly content being a craftsperson, meticulously putting love into hundred (or, apparently, thousands!) of pieces. The wonderful reviews I've received have been incredibly motivating, fueling my desire to create even more.
Finding the right balance is still a work in progress. Last year, Blue Buddha Boutique got a little less love from me, and I’m working on that. I really enjoy teaching, and I’m determined to find that sweet spot where I can share my knowledge and continue crafting. I'm also not quite earning enough money to make a living from jewelry sales, but last year for the first time in several years I donated to various causes, and I look forward to contributing even more as my income grows!
Looking ahead, I've set my sights on a new goal for my jewelry business: 3,650 pieces sold, an average of 10 pieces a day! This year is already off to a fantastic start, with January's jewelry sales more than double what they were last year! This momentum is all thanks to you, your support, and your belief in my craft. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart. Here's to many more rings, creations, and shared moments in the year to come! 💕
