Hey ? HP Seller, Apparition Jewellery

My name is Kristin Miles, owner of Apparition Jewellery. I have always been a very creative person, and it's been my dream to have my own store for years. My parents encouraged me to be creative, and I realised from a young age that is the thing I enjoy most in life. I enjoy metal music, however I also enjoy pop and classical. I don't like limiting myself in terms of the creative mediums I can enjoy.

My store was born from this love of the arts and creativity. I tried my hand at wire jewellery, but it didn't come naturally to me. I had a few extra supplies lying around after my attempts, so I started putting some earrings together - something I had started doing during my years at college. When I looked around online for types of jewellery, I noticed that a few of the items I had made were actually chainmaille weaves, and thus my business was born.

I find immense joy in creating the pieces in my store. Each is made with love, one ring at a time, to ensure the highest quality and care. I used to always go buy jewellery in stores, but then you see so many people wearing the same accessories as you! I feel that, with my business, I can offer something rather unique to people just like me, and allow people to better express their individuality.

I have faced challenges during the short time I've had my business. I've had people upset that I do the same craft as them and them trying to smear my name. But you just have to rise above the drama and remember what your own goals are and who you are as a person. In business, there will always be challenges, but that is just something you need to learn to deal with. The satisfaction I feel when I create something new that I never made before is just so amazing, and it makes it all worth it.

The highlights for me is that I can just keep growing. There is so much for me to still learn and so much to try! There are no limits to what I am capable of, and I can't wait to learn and do more.

The lows so far have really only been facing the unnecessary drama others cause. I strongly feel that as crafters and small business owners, we should be supporting and uplifting each other rather than breaking each other down or trying to hamper progress. There are more than enough people in this world to buy your product, so there is no need to fight or try to hurt each other.

My tips for new sellers is to just go for it! There is nothing in this world you cannot do or learn. You are your own limitation. People will always try to get in your way, but that's an indication that those people should not be in your life. Surround yourself with loving, supportive people, and just do what you love. If your craft makes you happy, then go for it.

This blog post is one in Hello Pretty's guest blog series. Each post is written by a person who is running their online store though South Africa's favourite art, design & craft marketplace.

If you'd like to more view guest posts in this series, and other posts where we interview local businesses, click here.

Wanna write a guest post on Hello Pretty? Email us at info@hellopretty.co.za to find out more.