In this week's episode, Michelle Lierre chats to Nicole Ringgold who is a silversmith and the author of the upcoming book The New Silversmith. Nicole discusses her journey into silversmithing, which began unexpectedly while constructing her home in 2009. Despite facing challenges like losing her home and studio to a wildfire in 2014, Nicole decided to pursue silversmithing full-time. Nicole's determination to succeed, coupled with her desire to be a role model for her daughter, drove her through financial hardships and uncertainties. She emphasizes the importance of believing in oneself and taking risks. Throughout her journey, Ringold's resilience and dedication to her craft shine through, inspiring others to pursue their passions despite the obstacles they may face.   Nicole on the web Nicole on Instagram Nicole's book on Amazon Nicole's YouTube channel   Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, hosts Jess and Anna discuss an upcoming project called the "5 Days of Silver Metal Clay." The 5-day event aims to introduce participants to silver metal clay, a versatile material for jewellery making. Anna, an experienced silver metal clay tutor, explains the nature of metal clay, its variations, and its environmentally friendly aspects. Throughout the five days, participants will explore different techniques, including making name necklaces, adding embellishments, reconstituting clay, setting gold nuggets, and polishing finished pieces. Jess and Anna encourage listeners to join the challenge, emphasizing the low-pressure environment and the opportunity for creative exploration. They highlight the inclusive nature of the event, welcoming both beginners and experienced makers to participate.   Sign up to the FREE 5 Days in Silver Metal Clay course    Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, host Kim Thomson is speaking with Anna Mcloughlin. Anna is an Ethical Designer/Goldsmith specialising in creating mini wearable sculptures and remodelling jewellery. Her jewellery business is B-Corp certified and she recently won the 2023 Halo Award from the British Hallmarking Council. Anna talks about her training as a jeweller and her career to date. She explains how she ended up applying to be a B-Corp and the process you need to go through as a jeweller. She also talks about the stress of having to move her studio in a month and how this meant she could start again and build an eco-friendly jewellery workshop.   Episode Description: 1:00 - How Anna trained as a jeweller 20:00 - Anna's career now 25:00 - How Anna got her jewellery business B-Corp certified 35:00 - Having to move out of her studio in a month and find somewhere new 39:00 - Building an eco-friendly jewellery workshop 46:00 - Her tips for setting up your own jewellery teaching space   Anna Fine Jewellery on the web Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess chats with Sally Costen, The Clerkenwell Jeweller, and discusses her journey into jewellery making. Sally, who started as a graphic designer, shares her passion for jewellery and how she rediscovered her love for it through courses at Jewellers Academy. The conversation delves into Sally's creative process, which involves extensive sketching and a love for making quirky and humorous pieces. Sally also talks about her experience applying for awards. The discussion emphasizes the importance of taking opportunities, overcoming self-doubt, and encouraging others to enter competitions. Sally highlights the value of gaining exposure and having professionals assess one's work through such competitions.   The Clerkenwell Jeweller website Sally on Instagram Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook  

In this week's episode, Anna chats to Sally How, a sustainable jewellery maker and workshop teacher. Sally specializes in eco-friendly silver and single-origin gold and offers workshops, including wedding ring making sessions near Harrogate, UK. This episode's all about using Google reviews to promote a jewellery business. Sally shares her strategy, emphasizing the importance of Google reviews for enhancing visibility and credibility. She suggests asking customers for reviews and provides insights into handling negative reviews professionally, encouraging businesses to address issues transparently and genuinely. The conversation delves into practical aspects of setting up Google reviews, including the importance of a map location, and Sally recommends a thoughtful response strategy to maintain a positive online reputation.   Sally on the web Sally on Instagram Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you've ever struggled with your relationship with money then this episode for you. Jess talks about the importance of the relationship we have with money and its impact on both our business and personal life. The formation of our core beliefs around money are often established by the age of 7 so any patterns that you have around money, abundance and lack are deep rooted. Jess gives her ten tips and thoughts around money and talks candidly about losing £50,000 overnight and what that taught her about money. The episode also includes exciting announcements about the Jewellery Business Academy opening for enrolment and the forthcoming Jewellery Business Bootcamp. Here are her tips: 1. Reflect on your childhood and what you heard about money in your family 2. Challenge those old thoughts around money that are no longer serving you 3. Find community that supports you - whether in person or online 4. Learn more about money and money mindset 5. Have compassion for yourself - issues with money are not about money they're about fear and guilt 6. Action brings about change - make small steps I challenge you to spend money on something this week for yourself that you wouldn't normally buy. And if you're an overbuyer, this week don't buy something you would normally buy 7. Understand the fundamentals of pricing and tips on how to put up your prices 8.  You're more important than money and you're more important than your business There is always something - an economic crisis, a pandemic, a housing market crash. Don't buy into the story that it means you can't grow a business because people are 9. Keep innovating and moving forwards 10. Focus on doing what you love and building the business that you want and trust that the money will come.   21 Days of Affirmations for Growth FREE course Money Mindset for Jewellers The Jewellery Business Academy is open for enrolment until 5th Feb The Jewellery Business Bootcamp 2024 Growing Your Jewellery Business in 2024 - FREE webinar with Jessica Rose   Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess chats with Emily, founder of Emily Lisbeth Jewellery, Jewellers Academy graduate and Jewelfund winner. She shares her inspiring journey into jewellery making, detailing her transition from administrative roles to pursuing her passion. She reflects on the challenges of balancing work and motherhood and the discussion touches on the natural evolution of a jewellery business and the importance of allowing it to grow organically, without excessive comparison to others in the industry.   Resources: Emily on the web Emily on Instagram Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook      

In this week's episode, host Elin Horgan welcomes Ruthie Johnson from Ruthie and Rose, a holistic success coach for ambitious women. Ruthie shares her personal journey from experiencing burnout in a high-profile corporate job to transitioning into entrepreneurship. The conversation covers mindset issues relevant to jewellers and small business owners, emphasizing the importance of slowing down, reevaluating priorities, and finding alignment with one's passions. Ruthie touches on the societal pressure for women to "do it all" and highlights the distinction between having it all and doing it all, advocating for a more intentional and enjoyable approach to the entrepreneurial journey.   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Ruthie on instagram Ruthie on the web   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook    

Have you ever chosen a word of the year? In our first podcast episode of 2024, Jess speaks with Anna Campbell about their process for selecting a word that will be their guiding theme for the upcoming year. They talk about the practicalities of choosing a word, the words they’ve chosen for 2024 and why as well as the words they had for previous years. We hope this episode will inspire you to choose your word for 2024 too! Key discussion points from this episode: The Purpose of Choosing a Word of the Year: Instead of setting strict New Year's resolutions, they opt for a word that acts as a theme for the year, guiding decisions, actions, and mindset. How to Select a Word: Both Jess and Anna describe how they choose their word. It involves reflecting on what they want to focus on, looking for words that resonate, and considering their personal and professional aspirations.   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Are you ready to test your knowledge about precious metals and jewellery making? Join us for this special episode, where the Jewellers Academy team members — Jessica Rose, Anna Campbell, Julia Rai, April and Tori — quiz each other and you about all things jewellery. Grab a pen and paper, join in the fun and see how many correct answers you get!  Quiz Questions: What are the Four C's? (3:16) What would a metal clay artist use nuts and bolts for? (10:49) What is the name for the stone setting technique where small gemstones are set next to each other in a row? (16:22) How much gold does the Bank of England have in reserve? (answer range between 10 and 400 tonnes) (18:29) Name three items you need when enameling (21:47) Where are the four current assay offices in England? (27:12) Which of these three cannot be fired in a kiln embedded in metal clay (white moonstone, rose quartz, labradorite)? (31:44) Which precious metal has the chemical symbol pt? (37:03) What is the rarest gemstone in the world?  What's the name for the camera setting that corrects colour temperature? (42:59) Quickfire round - What is the highest carat of gold? (45:45) What shape is a princess cut stone? How many seasons of The Jewellers Retreat are there? What's the birthstone for December? Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess chats to all three participants of season 2 of the Jeweller's Retreat - Kath Dare, Tressa Amir, and Kate Seow - who are experienced jewellers enrolled in the Advanced Jewelry Diploma.  Kath, Tressa and Kate share their initial apprehensions about being on camera and discuss their eventual enthusiasm for the unique and challenging experience. They give insights into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the Jewellers Retreat and reflect on their favourite days and pieces created during the retreat, highlighting the challenges and growth they experienced. We also hear how they bonded over their shared love for jewellery making and how much they valued the support of the mentors during the filming of the show. Watch Episode 1 of The Jewellers Retreat - Season 2   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Tressa on Instagram Kath Dare on Instagram Kate Seow on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook      

In this week's episode, Jess speaks with fellow producer Anna Campbell about Season Two of The Jewellers Retreat, which premieres on the Jewellers Academy YouTube channel on Wednesday 13th December 2023 at 8pm GMT. This year features three Jewellers Academy Advanced Diploma students - Tressa from Russian Blue Jewellery, Kath from Kath Dare Jewellery and Kate from Kate Seow Jewellery. Jess and Anna discuss the exceptional making skills showcased by these amazing jewellers, share some behind-the-scenes details about filming the show, and share why they believe it's an engaging and informative series for anyone interested in jewellery making. 1. For the Design Process - to witness the development from idea to finished jewellery 2. For the Different Signature Styles 3. For the Tools 4. For Jewellery Making and Business Tips 5. To Meet the Jewellers and Hear Their Stories Watch Episode 1 of The Jewellers Retreat - Season 2   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Tressa on Instagram Kath Dare on Instagram Kate Seow on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook  

In this episode of the Jewellers Academy podcast, Jess speaks with Patricia van den Akker from The Design Trust about the importance of managing our energy. We know a lot about managing our time but that’s not the whole story as not all tasks take the same amount of energy for us to complete. In this engaging discussion, Jess and Patricia talk about the importance of self-awareness, acknowledging our stress levels, and finding ways to manage and express emotions as a creative business owners.    Episode description Welcome and introduction (0) Tell us a little bit about this idea of energy management versus time management (01.12)  A lot of creatives are exhausted (03.21) The book 4000 weeks (06.13) 5-10 years ago, business training was all about ‘how can we do more, how can we achieve more’. The focus is different now (8.50) How do we control our energy? (9.69) Anxiety and our stress response (12.07) Get active and release the tension (17.20) How do we get more energy? (23.05) Suggestions for strengthening your mind-body connection (26.41) Change your environment (29.33) Assigning your time - 40% making, 40% marketing, 10% professional development/training, 10% finances and admin (40.45) Remind yourself why you started your business (42.34) The idea behind the planner (45.11) Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group The Design Trust   Exclusive discount Patricia has kindly offered 10% OFF The Design Trust diaries and hardback journal planners for creatives for anybody listening to the podcast. Both the diary & journal planner are packed full of expert advice for creative professionals to get more focused & organised, using quarterly & monthly planning tools and much more. PLUS you will be invited to 2 live online business/finance/marketing planning workshops hosted by Patricia in January too.   This offer is valid until 10 January 2024. Go to https://www.thedesigntrust.co.uk/online-courses/ and select your diary or hardback. Use coupon code JACADEMY to get 10% off. Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess discusses six exciting ways to develop your jewellery-making skills in 2024 with Jewellers Academy, whether you're a beginner or an already accomplished jeweller. Emphasizing the joy of learning and the mindfulness aspect it brings, Jess talks about various Jewellers Academy programs, including 10 Days of Silver Jewellery Making, the Foundation in Silver Jewellery course, the Diploma in Silver Jewellery, the Diploma in Fine Jewellery and the Advanced Jewellery Diploma. And finally, Jess discusses the Diploma in Silver Metal Clay for those interested in expanding their jewellery making skills into a new medium.   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook    

In this week's episode, Kim Thomson chats with Jane Mooney of Treasured Gem Hunter. We learn how she went from jewellery maker to gemstone emporium owner and she gives us fascinating insight into the world of gemstones and how the industry is changing.  Episode Description: What sparked your interest in gemstones? (2:18) Was it hard to turn your passion for gemstones into a business? (5:52) What's the highlight of your career so far? (34:20) Where can we find you on the web? (50:51)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group The Treasured Gem website The Treasured Gem on Instagram Find out more about Gem Legacy   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Anna chats with Fran, client experience specialist, about all things customer experience. Fran, founder of And So the Journey Begins, shares her knowledge on what customer experience is, setting customer expectations, making the experience personal, turning customers into repeat customers and much more. Episode Description: What do we mean by customer experience? (1:35) How can we set customer expectations? (6:56) How can we make the experience more personal? (21:38) The importance of repeat customers (28:38) Post-sale customer contact (33:31) Where can we find Fran on the web? (41:15) Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Fran on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Kim Thompson chats with jeweller Mareike Wehner of byMaraca Jewellery. They discuss how Mareike became interested in jewellery, her creative and crafty background, how she manages her jewellery business, how she came to have her jewellery on sale at the prestigious Tate Liverpool art gallery and more.  Episode Description: What sparked your interest in jewellery making? (1:37) How did you manage learning jewellery making while working? (11:45) When did you decide to turn your jewellery making into a business? (13:26) What are the benefits to you of selling in shops and galleries? (27:03) How did you get your jewellery on sale in the Tate Liverpool? (33:04) What have been the highlights of your jewellery making career so far? (37:23) What's your design process? (42:49) Where can we find you on the web? (51:28)    Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group byMaraca Jewellery Mareike on Instagram Information about Aphantasia   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess chats with Matt Hopkins, founder of The Great Brand Exchange. The Great Brand Exchange helps small businesses grow and scale by giving them routes into high-street retail and helps bring exciting, unique, local products to major retailers. Since its inception, the Great Brand Exchange has generated £50 million in revenue for small businesses, managed 5,000 pop-up events and created an active network of 12,000 emerging brands.  Episode Description: How did the Great Brand Exchange come about? (2:39) What does the GBE do? (7:01) What's the value that the GBE brings to small businesses and big retailers alike? (11:51) What content is best for matching with/attracting brands? (17:44) What are the benefits of pop-up shops for small businesses? (20:04) What makes a successful pop-up shop? (22:40) What trends does Matt see in retail at the moment? (25:56) How can Jewellers get started with the Great Brand Exchange? (33:22) Matt's tips for business success (35:00) Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group The Great Brand Exchange   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Michelle Lierre dives into an in-depth discussion with Chris of Lion Punch Forge on maintaining and modifying the steel tools that jewellers typically use. Chris teaches us about the fundamentals of steel as a material, the different kinds of steel, how steel behaves differently to the metals jewellers use to make jewellery and how it's possible for jewellers to modify their own steel tools. Episode Description: How did Chris get into the industry? (2:04) What is steel? (8:44) How can we make simple modifications to steel tools? (12:55) Dealing with rust on steel tools (39:11) Basic tool maintenance for jewellers (41:57) Where can Chris be found online? (49:13) Discount code for Jewellers Academy listeners (50:12) Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Lion Punch Forge on the web Lion Punch Forge on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess introduces the new Jewellers Academy Foundation in Silver Jewellery. This 5-week course is an in-depth introduction to silver jewellery making suitable for beginners who are looking for a structured, supported online training for their first steps in making silver jewellery from home. Listen as Jess takes us through all the details of this exciting new course.    Resources: Foundation in Silver Jewellery Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess chats with jeweller Laura Jayne about 10 essential tools for getting started with silver jewellery making. Laura Jayne teaches the brand new Jewellers Academy Foundation in Silver Jewellery course. To celebrate this she joins us on the show to take us through the absolute essential tools every budding silver jewellery maker needs and shares lots of other useful hints and tips around tools.   Episode Description:  Getting started with silver jewellery making (3:06) Jewellers saw and bench peg (5:27) Jewellery saw blades (8:18) Half Round File (10:35) A set of pliers (15:08) Mandrels and hammers (18:22) Soldering torches,  solder blocks & brass tweezers (22:12) Pickle solution (25:56) Flux & flux brushes (27:37) Pin vise (30:17) Stone setting tools: pusher and square pusher (34:45) Burnisher (35:49) Where to find Laura Jayne? (44:04) Resources: The Jewellery Business Academy Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Follow Laura Jayne on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess has a fascinating chat with London-based fine jeweller Susannah King. Susannah reveals who inspired her to enter into the world of jewellery making, her philosophy around how she markets herself, her creative processes, the story behind her stunning success on TikTok and more.  Episode Description: Today we're talking with fine jewellery Susannah King (1:01) How did you come to jewellery making? (2:44) When did you start making as opposed to repairing? (7:56) How has your use of video on social media helped grow your business? (10:52) How do you be your authentic self on social media and build relationships? (13:58) How do you use social media to launch jewellery collections? (17:03) What are your jewellery-making processes? (22:01) How do you manage your time? (28:23) What's your proudest moment so far in your jewellery career? (32:59) What's been the biggest challenge so far in your business? (34:50) What do you love most about jewellery-making? (37:12) Where to find Susannah? (38:49) Resources: The Jewellery Business Academy Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Follow Susannah on Instagram Follow Susannah on TikTok Susannah King's website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess presents the full recording of her webinar 'Your Roadmap to Growing a Jewellery Business.' Listen as Jess sets out a clear roadmap for growing your jewellery business, details what you need and what your business needs, and discusses how the Jewellery Business Academy can help anyone grow a successful jewellery business.   Episode Description: Webinar begins (4:14) What you need (9:37) What the business needs (16:36) Building a business takes time (44:26) How the Jewellery Business Academy can help you (46:57)   Resources: The Jewellery Business Academy Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jessica Rose and Anna Campbell dive into five amazing reasons to join the Jewellery Business Academy, the new programme aimed at helping anyone build a profitable, successful and sustainable jewellery business. Listen now to find out the many ways in which the Jewellery Business Academy could help you grow your jewellery business.   Episode Description: 1. Knowledge - Access to monthly training and resources that focus on what you need to do for your business (3:26) 2. Accountability - 10 monthly small group sessions with a mentor to check in on how you are doing (9:08) 3. Guidance: a 1-2-1 with a mentor each year. You get tailored Support and feedback specific to your business 1-2-1’s (15:20) 4. Community - Connecting with others in the Facebook Group (19:44) 5. Increased income/ increased profitability and increased self belief (25:07)   Resources: The Jewellery Business Academy Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this week's episode, Jess announces the launch of The Jewellery Business Academy. This is an exciting new programme designed to offer monthly training, support, community and connection to jewellers who are either in the process of starting their own business or those up and running who are looking to learn more about the trade and grow. Listen now to find out if it's right for you.   Episode Description: Introducing the Jewellery Business Academy (1:05) What is the main focus of the Jewellery Business Academy program? (1:53) How long is the JBA program and when does it start? (2:39) What does the JBA program provide and how is it structured? (3:24) Invest in yourself by joining The Jeweller Business Academy (22:22)   Resources: The Jewellery Business Academy Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

We know that people buy from jewellers they know, like and trust but how do we build that relationship in an authentic way? This week on the Jewellers Academy podcast host Anna Campbell is joined by the insightful Marti from Wee Bit Social. Together, they delve into ways to use Instagram stories as a powerful tool for connecting with audiences and fostering those vital connections. Whether you are a seasoned Instagram pro or are just starting out, have a listen to discover innovative strategies and expert tips on how to authentically engage with people and have fun doing it. Episode Description: Today we're discussing all things Instagram Stories with Marti from Wee Bit Social (1:10) What are Instagram Stories and what can they help us do? (1:49) How Instagram Stories can help you get to know your audience (3:00) Marti's example of getting to know someone through Instagram Stories (4:18) Tips on using Instagram Stories and what to share on them (5:39) The importance of engagement on Instagram (24:14) How sharing other people's stuff creates connections (32:21) Using links in Instagram Stories (36:24) How to use Highlights in Instagram Stories (39:25) How to learn more from Marti (42:36)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Marti - www.weebitsocial.com   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

The Jewellers Academy podcast is back for a new season! In this week’s episode, Jess explains the exciting new expanded format for the podcast and chats with three of her new co-hosts Michelle Lierre, Anna Campbell and Kim Thomson. Jeweller Elin Horgan is also joining the team. They share their backstories, what listeners can expect from them and their upcoming guests on the show and what 3 tools they would take to a desert island.   Episode Description: New exciting format for the podcast (1:20) Introducing the new co-hosts (2:06) The backstories of our new co-hosts (9:52) What 3 tools would our new co-hosts take to a desert island? (21:26)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business”   Anna Campbell - https://www.annaccampbell.com/ Elin Horgan - https://www.elinhorgan.com/ Michelle Lierre - https://www.lierreworks.com/ Kim Thomson - https://www.makeit.kim/   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

JewelFund is back for 2023, and this year we’re giving two jewellers £2000 and a mentoring package to help them grow their businesses. In this episode, Jess explains how the fund works and shares some tips for writing an application that stands out. She also shares some exciting updates about the future of the podcast, so make sure you follow the show on your favourite podcast platform to stay up to date!    Episode Description: The JewelFund grant is back for 2023! (1:30) Exciting changes to the podcast are coming soon, so stay tuned (3:40) Who can apply for JewelFund? (4:56) Winners will receive £2000 and one-on-one mentoring with Jess (6:30) What should you include in your application? (8:20) Even if you don’t win, answering these questions can help you (12:52) Have a great summer, and we’ll talk to you again soon! (18:24)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Do measurements and calculations give you a headache? We have an exciting resource for you! In this episode, Jess talks with Stelios Karantonas about his new app for ring sizing, wax measurements, alloy calculations, and more. Stelios explains how it works and why it’s so useful for jewellers. He even shares how you can win a free download of the app, so make sure to listen until the end!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Stelios Karantonas about his new app for jewellers (1:14) Can you tell us about yourself and your background? (2:37) What inspired you to start the app? (5:45) Why is the app helpful for jewellers? (9:13) What are wax measurements used for? (11:37) How does the app help with alloy calculations? (16:32) Why is your app useful for mixing metal? (20:20) Where can we find the app? (24:33) How to win a free download of the app (26:54)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Download the Stelar app Stelios Karantonas Website Email Jessica  Email Stelios 

Hallmarking isn’t just a standard to follow, it’s a powerful way to promote your business and educate your customers about jewellery quality. In this episode, Marianne Wilson and Charlotte Turner return to the podcast to talk about this year’s HALO Award, which honours jewellers who are promoting hallmarking in creative ways. Marianne and Charlotte explain how you can apply for the HALO Award, share examples of past year’s winners, and talk about the benefits of hallmarking for you and your customers.  Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Marianne Wilson and Charlotte Turner about hallmarking (1:14) What is the HALO Award, and why does it exist? (2:23) Can you explain why hallmarking is important? (6:55) How can independent jewellers promote hallmarking? (10:32) Why is hallmarking beneficial for jewellers? (18:21) How do you apply for the HALO Award? (24:40) Where to learn more about hallmarking (36:16) Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business”   Apply for the HALO Award Download the Digital Dealers Notice The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Website (London) British Hallmarking Council Website NAJ Whistleblowing Line   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about pearls, where they come from, and how they’re graded, you’re in the right place! In this episode, Jess talks with Jeremy Shepherd, founder of Pearl Paradise and vice president of the Cultured Pearl Association of America. Jeremy tells us why he’s so passionate about pearls, breaks down each of the different types of pearls, and explains how they’re priced. He also has a special offer for Jewellers Academy listeners, so make sure to listen to the full episode!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking about all things pearls with Jeremy Shepherd (1:14) How did you end up on this career path? (3:24) What are Freshwater Pearls? (10:48) Why are Akoya Pearls so popular? (14:49) How are pearls graded? (17:48) Can you tell us about your course for learning more about pearls? (23:16) What are Tahitian Pearls or black pearls? (28:05) Why are South Sea Pearls so rare? (37:19) How common are Conch Pearls? (41:24) How are pearls marked up? (42:35) What’s next for you? (46:34)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Use Code JAPEARLS to take the Pearls as One Course for free Cultured Pearl Association of America Pearl Guide website Pearl Paradise website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

It’s much easier to run a business when you understand yourself and your motivations. In this episode, Anna C Campbell joins me to talk all things personality, focussing on the Four Tendencies theory from Gretchen Rubin. Anna explains the different tendencies - Upholder, Questioner, Rebel and Obliger and covers practical tips you can use to motivate yourself and play to your strengths in your jewellery business based on your personality type. You won’t want to miss this one!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking about how your personality impacts your business (1:19) Why is personality so interesting to you? (3:27) What is the four tendencies theory? (9:12) The Upholder (11:34) The Questioner (14:06) The Rebel (15:22) The Obliger (16:55) How can upholders play to their strengths and find balance? (21:40) What should questioners pay attention to when running a business? (27:19) How can rebels best motivate themselves in their businesses? (38:52) What are some strategies obligers can use to stay motivated? (46:30) We’re all unique, so the key is finding what works for you (55:12)   About Gretchen Rubin:The four tendency theory was created by Gretchen Rubin. Take her four tendencies quiz for free to find out your tendency https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/ To learn more about this theory do check out her excellent books, particularly Better than Before and the Four Tendencies https://gretchenrubin.com/books/ About Anna C Campbell: Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Take the personality quiz   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Do you know your jeweller job description? Knowing what your job is (and what it isn’t) will help you stay focused while also taking care of yourself. In this episode, Jess leads us through an exercise in defining our job description as jewellery business owners, from setting our working hours to thinking about our customers to responding to challenges. No matter where you are in your business journey, this episode has something for you!    Episode Description: Today we’re going to do an exercise in writing our job descriptions (1:25) Give yourself permission to call yourself an entrepreneur (4:17) Identify the skills you’re bringing to the table (6:43) What do you currently expect of yourself? (8:28) What are your working hours? (11:13) 1. Take risks (12:35) 2. Be creative (19:01) 3. Obsess over your customer (23:23) 4. Look after yourself (26:57) 5. Take responsibility (30:47) 6. Bounce back from setbacks (34:33) 7. Ask for help (36:55)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

It’s not too early to start planning for the holidays! In this episode, Jess walks through a mid-year review you can use to evaluate the first six months of 2023 and start preparing for the rest of the year. Whether you’re in your first year of business or you’re an experienced jewellery business owner, this episode has some excellent tools for reflection and planning. You won’t want to miss it!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking about actions you can take now to plan for the rest of the year (1:34) Ask yourself these questions to reflect on the past six months (2:55) Start thinking now about your goals for the rest of the year (7:35) Set a revenue goal, a marketing goal, and one soft goal (8:39) Determine what jewellery you want to sell for the holidays (13:19) Make a plan for ordering the materials, packaging, and supplies you’ll need (16:22) Decide how you want to handle hallmarking (18:47) Think through any upcoming fairs and events (20:37) Consider your photography and videography needs (23:03) Reach out to your wholesalers to finalize your holiday plans (24:57) Marketing best practices for jewellers (27:32) Start thinking about gift vouchers and other special offers (34:34)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Download the mid-year review worksheet Read our craft fair checklist   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Are you struggling to grow your Instagram account or finding it hard to come up with content ideas? This episode is for you! Social media coach Jo Treadwell — also known as “Social Jo” — is sharing all of her top tips for writing great Instagram captions, selling without being too “sales-y,” making the most of hashtags, and more. Listen in to get all your caption questions answered!  Episode Description: Today we’re talking with social media coach and Instagram specialist Jo Treadwell How did you become a social media specialist?  It’s not about having the most followers, it’s about reaching the right people What are Instagram captions and why are they important? What elements should you include in an Instagram post?  How do you come up with interesting, effective captions?  How long should you make your captions?  What are some strategies for selling without being sales-y? Can you share some best practices for using hashtags?  How to learn more from Jo   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Follow Jo on Instagram Social Jo Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

The art of selling doesn’t always come naturally to jewellers, but there are certain strategies you can learn to make your selling more effective. In this episode, Susannah Lovis shares some of her favourite questions to ask customers, tips for engaging with people in person and online, and more. Susannah is the owner of the vintage jewellery store Susannah Lovis Jewellers, and she has so many excellent insights to share!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with vintage jewellery specialist Susannah Lovis (1:34) How did you get interested in the jewellery business? (2:47) What’s the difference between antique and vintage? (9:59) Can you share some tips for selling jewellery? (13:00) What questions do you ask customers to help sell in person? (17:52) How do you approach selling online? (24:01) What have you learned while building your team? (27:36) What’s next for you and your business? (31:08) How have you grown your Instagram? (32:18) What are some of your favourite pieces to sell? (34:18) Where to find Susannah (36:55)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Susannah’s Website Follow Susannah on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

The deadline for joining one of our jewellery diplomas is coming up next week, so don’t wait to sign up! In this episode, Jess provides an overview of each of the diploma programmes, what you can expect to learn, and where to go for more information. She also explains why these diplomas are so beneficial for jewellers and she shares some encouragement about the importance of investing in yourself. Episode Description: Thank you to all of our podcast listeners! (1:45) This is the final week to sign up for a jewellery diploma (4:41) Why are the diploma programmes so beneficial? (7:30) Don’t let fear hold you back from investing in yourself (12:30) What is covered in the Diploma in Silver Jewellery? (13:42) What are the benefits of the Diploma in Fine Jewellery? (22:16) Why should you join the Advanced Jewellery Diploma? (29:16) What is the new Silver Metal Clay Diploma? (36:28)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Sign up for one of our diplomas Join a silver jewellery diploma discovery call Join a fine jewellery diploma discovery call   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

There are so many ways to learn silver jewellery making, so how do you know which methods and teachers are right for you? In this episode, jeweller and Jewellers Academy mentor Kim Thomson shares 7 of her tips for anyone getting started with silver metalsmithing. She talks about characteristics to look for in a teacher, the importance of community, overcoming imposter syndrome, and much more!    Episode Description: This week Kim Thomson is sharing her top tips for silver metalsmithing (1:19) 1. Identify your aims and priorities (4:31) 2. Learn sequentially (7:28) 3. Build a strong foundation (9:45) 4. Community is invaluable (14:40) 5. Ask “why” (19:30) 6. Be honest about what you don’t know (27:00) 7. Remember the people who taught you (32:25) How to learn more (39:26)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Sign up for one of our diplomas Silver Jewellery Making for Beginners 10 Days of Silver Jewellery Making Follow Kim on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you’re on the fence about signing up for a jewellery diploma in 2023, this episode is for you! We share a live recording from a Q&A session with Jess and three of our jewellery diploma graduates. The jewellers answer questions about the diploma projects, the experience of doing the programme while working a full-time job, and much more. They also explain how the diplomas have helped them grow their skills and achieve their business goals.    Episode Description: This week we’re sharing a live recording with 3 of our diploma graduates (1:23) Meet Alice from the silver jewellery diploma (4:46) Meet Ian from the fine and advanced jewellery diplomas (9:24) Meet Kate from the fine and advanced jewellery diplomas (14:19) Can you do a diploma with a full-time job? (17:03) How does the online class format compare to in person? (21:16) How long does it take to finish fine diploma projects? (24:54) What project did you find most challenging in the fine diploma? (30:35) How did the silver jewellery diploma help you reach your goals? (33:54) What would you say to someone who’s considering signing up? (37:36)  How has the fine jewellery diploma changed your trajectory? (39:51) Can you talk about the community aspect of the diplomas? (48:28) Do you need a dedicated jewellery making space? (50:29)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Sign up for one of our diplomas   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Filigree can seem intimidating at first, but it’s a valuable skill for every jeweller. In this episode, Jess talks with filigree expert Michelle Lierre about her top tips for learning filigree. Michelle also shares 6 common mistakes people make with filigree and explains how you can troubleshoot each of those issues. Whether you already work with filigree or are looking to get started, you won’t want to miss this conversation!    Episode Description: This week we’re talking with filigree artist Michelle Lierre (1:20) What is filigree? (4:17) Why should jewellers learn filigree? (7:10) What metals can and can’t you use for filigree? (9:56) What are the different types of filigree? (17:13) 6 tips for filigree jewellery making (19:40) 1. Give yourself permission to fail (20:01) 2. Get comfortable with annealing (22:54) 3. Masking tape is your friend (24:48) 4. Be creative with your methods (26:23) 5. Turn the lights down (31:24) 6. Use what’s available in your area (33:49) Troubleshooting some common filigree mistakes (39:50)  1. Not twisting your wire enough (40:09) 2. Pieces popping out (43:18) 3. Using too much or too little flux (45:50) 4. Not having enough connections (49:09) 5. Unequal heating (51:36) 6. Torch light is too small (54:17) How to connect with Michelle (58:04)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Pre-Order the Filigree Jewellery Course to get 50% Off Listen to Michelle’s previous podcast episode Lierre Filigree Website Follow Michelle on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

The more you experiment with silver metal clay, the more you’ll realise just how many possibilities there are. In this episode, Jess talks with Petra Cameron of Metal Clay Ltd about her ten favourite tools for working with metal clay. From basic essentials to products you can use for new techniques, this episode has something for everyone!    Episode Description: This week we’ll talk with Petra Cameron about her top ten metal clay tools (1:21) 1. Moisturising and storage pot (3:52) 2. Flex formula (7:06) 3. PasteMaker (11:09) 4. Tuff cards (15:00) 5. Moulding compound (17:17) 6. Water brush (21:01) 7. Pen scriber (23:33) 8. Needle tool (26:38) 9. Brass brush (29:01) 10. Burnisher (32:21) Bonus: MicroMesh buffer (35:06)   Resources: Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Learn about the Silver Metal Clay Diploma   Products Petra Mentioned: Art Clay Moisturising and Storage Pot Flex Formula PasteMaker Tuff Cards Moulding Compounds Water Brush Pen Scriber Needle Tool Brass Brush Burnishers MicroMesh 4-way Buffer   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Have you ever considered building a business around silver metal clay? This week’s episode is for you! Jess breaks down several different business models that metal clay is uniquely suited for, whether you want to teach, make artisan jewellery, or something else entirely. She also shares some of her top tips for setting yourself apart in the metal clay space and reminds us why it’s so important to focus on the details.   Episode Description: This week we’ll talk about building a successful silver metal clay business (1:35) Metal clay allows for more personalisation, including fingerprint jewellery (2:48) Metal clay is excellent for teaching businesses (10:21) Because metal clay is a new medium, there’s room for you to make your mark (16:15) You can have metal clay designs cast for production (19:22) Metal clay allows you to make jewellery quickly (22:38) Details and finishing matter! (25:47) Metal clay can also be used to make artisan jewellery (27:23)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Learn about the Silver Metal Clay Diploma 5 Days of Silver Metal Clay Challenge Browse our jewellery making courses   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Whether you’re in a creative rut or feeling inspired, there are certain practices you can do to help give your creativity a boost. In this episode, Jess shares five of her favourite ways to boost her creativity (plus one bonus) and gives practical tips for how you can implement these practices in your own life.     Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking about nurturing and growing our creativity (1:31) Here are 5 ways Jess has been able to boost her creativity (6:50) 1. Earmark time for creativity (7:05) 2. Learn something new that’s creative (12:48) 3. Develop a practice of self-reflection (16:51) 4. Do a screen detox (22:45) 5. Do something you’ve always wanted to do (27:19) Bonus: Make something that you won’t sell (30:24)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” “Big Magic” by Elizabeth Gilbert   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Posting great selfies can help your audience get to know you and feel more connected to your brand. In this episode, Jess talks with Susan Heaton, a brand photographer who specialises in small businesses. Susan shares her top tips for taking good selfies for your business. She also explains how you can feel more confident and move past the nerves that come with posting pictures of yourself.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Susan Heaton about how to take good business selfies(1:13) How did you get interested in brand photography? (2:55) What are some of the challenges people face with selfies? (4:29) Why are selfies important for a business? (6:21) What are your top tips for a great selfie? (9:06) How can people overcome their nerves about taking pictures? (15:38) What should people avoid doing? (20:44) How to connect with Susan (24:58)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Follow Susan on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Metal clay is one of our favourite materials to work with at Jewellers Academy, and in this episode we’re telling you why! Jess talks with Anna Campbell about the top ten reasons why they love metal clay, and why they’re so excited for our new Silver Metal Clay Diploma. Whether you’ve worked with metal clay for years or are interested in trying it out for the first time, this episode has something for you!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking about 10 reasons to love metal clay (1:17) 1. It’s easy to do from home (5:06) 2. It’s eco-friendly (8:30) 3. It creates no waste (11:13) 4. It’s fine silver and can be hallmarked (13:59) 5. It’s easy on your hands (16:18) 6. It complements traditional methods (19:00) 7. It’s very creative and expressive (23:35) 8. It allows beginners to do stone setting(27:57) 9. It’s easy to add gold (30:50) 10. It works really well with enamelling (34:22) Bonus: It’s great for teaching! (38:35)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Learn about the Silver Metal Clay Diploma Watch the Open Day Replay 5 Days of Silver Metal Clay Challenge   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode we’re sharing everything you need to know about our newest diploma programme, the diploma in Silver Metal Clay. Jess explains who the course is for, how it’s structured, and what you can expect to learn throughout the year. She also talks about why she loves silver metal clay and shares some reasons why you may want to join us for this course.   Episode Description: This week we’re announcing a brand new diploma in silver metal clay! (1:16) What is silver metal clay? (2:31) Who is this course for? (4:36) How is the course structured? (6:32) What will you make throughout the year? (10:30) What’s included in the masterclasses? (12:35) How do mentorship and community play into this course? (17:59) What else do you need for this diploma? (19:45) Why should you join? (21:31) What payment plans are available? (23:25)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Learn about the Silver Metal Clay Diploma Join our Open Day   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

You may recognise David J. Lilly from television, and in this episode, you can learn more about his fascinating backstory and his experience as a semi-finalist on “All That Glitters” Season 2. David explains where he gets inspiration for his unique style of jewellery, and he tells us all about the experience of applying for, filming, and watching himself on “All That Glitters.” David also shares advice for new jewellers and explains how he’s developed his style and skillset over time.    Episode Description: This week we’re talking with “All That Glitters” Season 2 semi-finalist David J. Lilly (1:23) How did you become a jeweller? (2:47) Where does your inspiration come from? (10:33) Can you tell us about the jewellery you make? (13:06) What was the process of applying for All that Glitters? (16:39)  How was your experience on the show? (19:45) Has the show changed your approach to your business? (23:46) Can you tell us about the award you won for your jewellery? (27:41) How have you stayed true to your unique style? (29:38) What are you proudest of? (33:37) What advice do you have for someone who’s just starting out? (37:35) Rapidfire questions with David (40:30) How to connect with David (42:56)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” David J Lilly Website Follow David on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

With their Heart of Gold collaboration, Emma René and Kerrie Kent are creating one-of-a-kind jewellery while also raising funds and awareness for The British Heart Foundation. In this episode, Emma and Kerrie share the inspiration behind the project and explain how you can support it. They also talk about what it’s like to run a collaboration between their two businesses and share practical tips for other jewellers who might want to do something similar.  Episode Description: This week we’re talking with Emma René and Kerrie Kent (1:13) How did you get involved in this heart disease awareness project? (2:38) Can you tell us about the process of turning this idea into action? (8:23) What does the gold heart necklace look like? (11:56) What was it like to manage this collaboration on top of your own businesses? (14:15) How has the project gone so far, and what are your future goals? (17:10) What was it like to work with a charity? (20:03) Do you have advice for other jewellers interested in raising money for a cause? (22:47) How to get involved (25:09)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Gold Hearted Club Website Narratorium Website Donate to the Heart of Gold Crowdfunder Follow Emma and Kerrie on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you want to start growing your Instagram and posting more consistently, this episode is for you! Jess explains how you can join the Jewellers Academy “Reel a Week” Challenge, and she talks through all the different prompts you can choose from when making your reels.     Episode Description: This week we’re talking about a challenge to help you grow your Instagram (1:24) It’s better to start small than not start at all (6:01) Each week you can choose one prompt from this list (9:20) 1. Before and after (10:02) 2. Your favourite tool (11:21) 3. Process reel: Start to finish or show the juiciest moment (12:51) 4. Top tips (16:34) 5. Packing an order (17:57) 6. The first and last piece of jewellery you made (19:50) 7. Your inspiration or design process (22:03) 8. Workshop helpers (23:51) 9. Workbench tour (24:50) 10. Bestsellers or jewellery showcase (26:02)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Join the Reel a Week Challenge      Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Our jewellery diplomas are for anyone, even if you don’t live in the UK. In this episode, Emily Kenny shares her experience of doing the fine jewellery diploma from her home in Vancouver, British Columbia. She explains how she draws inspiration from the natural landscapes around her and shares practical tips for getting started as a jeweller, doing the diploma, and developing a signature style.   Episode Description: This week we’re talking with Emily Kenny about the fine jewellery diploma (1:15) How did you get started with jewellery making? (2:18) What was it like to do the diploma from overseas? (6:39) What inspires your jewellery style? (8:40) What were your favourite and least favourite projects? (12:48) How did you learn to photograph jewellery? (15:22) What’s next for you? (18:14) What advice would you give to a new jeweller? (20:42) How to connect with Emily (23:54)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Follow Emily on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Learning to do your own stone settings is a valuable skill for any jeweller. In this episode, Jess talks through ten common stone settings for silver jewellery (plus one bonus). These settings cover a wide variety of skill and experience levels, so there’s something here for everyone!    Episode Description: This week we’re talking about 10 stone settings for silver jewellery (1:35) 1. Cabochon setting (3:25) 2. Tube setting (6:05) 3. Flush setting (8:32) 4. Shaped cabochons (10:59) 5. Collet setting (13:40) 6. Claw setting (16:13) 7. Micro claw setting (17:50) 8. Pave setting (19:55) Bonus: Star setting (21:59) 9. Tension setting (23:27) 10. Channel setting (25:09)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Register for the Stone Setting in Silver Jewellery Course    Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Fairs and events are an excellent way to grow your business, but they can be intimidating when you’re not sure where to get started. In this episode, Jess talks with Lisa Ramos, a jeweller and handbag maker who’s built her business primarily through in-person events. Lisa shares her top tips for applying to fairs and making a show successful. She also explains how she’s used email marketing to continue building her customer base outside of events.   Episode Description: This week we’re talking with jeweller and handbag maker Lisa Ramos (1:29) How did you become a maker? (2:48) What inspired you to start selling at events? (10:13) How do you pace yourself when you’re doing so many shows each year? (15:10) Where do you find shows, and how do you choose the ones you do? (18:07) How has email marketing helped you grow your customer base? (21:34) What percentage of your sales come from events? (23:52) What are your top tips for making shows successful? (27:19) How do you approach interacting with customers? (33:02) What are the best shows you’ve done to date, and why? (38:56) Do you have any tips about applying for shows? (42:15) What’s next for your business? (44:41) How to connect with Lisa (46:20)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Mono Lisa Designs Website Follow Lisa on Instagram and Facebook     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

This week is the last week to register for the Diploma in Silver Jewellery, so in this bonus episode, Jessica shares a recording of the Open Day. She answers some of our frequently asked questions about how the diploma is structured, what you’ll make throughout the course, how the community aspect works, and more. If you’re interested in learning how to make jewellery for the first time, or strengthening the techniques you already have, this diploma is an excellent opportunity!    Episode Description: This week we’re sharing a recording on the diploma in silver jewellery open day (1:30) What is the diploma, and how is it structured? (3:13) How are the community and mentorship set up? (8:55) Meet the mentors (14:21) How are the diplomas different from Jewellers Academy membership? (17:48) Term 1 Overview (21:49) Term 2 Overview (30:00) Term 3 Overview (36:06) How does the marking work? (43:05) Who is the diploma for? (43:42) How is the course priced? (45:30)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Diploma in Silver Jewellery Meet the mentors Schedule a discovery call to learn more  Watch the Jewellers Retreat   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you’re worried about money this year, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone! In this episode, Jess and Anna C Campbell talk about some of the key ways you can improve your money mindset in 2023, no matter what the economy is doing. They share practical tips for overcoming shame, experiencing gratitude, and finding ways to invest in yourself and your business.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking about letting go of fear and mastering your money mindset (1:14) If you’re worried about money this year, you’re not alone (4:14) Your mindset matters more than you realise (5:36) Look for small acts of abundance (9:33) How shame impacts our relationship with money (13:44) What does it look like to budget without over budgeting? (21:06) This is the year to invest in your business (22:35)  Gratitude is key for letting go of fear (29:43) Be conscious about what you’re consuming (35:05) Get creative about where you find the money to invest in your business (37:00)   About Anna C Campbell Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Diploma in Silver Jewellery Diploma in Fine Jewellery Advanced Jewellery Diploma Money Mindset for Jewellers   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

In this episode, Jess talks with one of the finalists from the BBC show “All That Glitters,” Emma White. As a veteran of the jewellery making business, a TV star, and a jewellery teacher, Emma has so much experience and insight to share. She talks about her journey to deciding to join the show, as well as some of the behind-the-scenes highs and lows of her experience. Emma also explains how she’s learned to deal with doubts, self-criticism, and the challenges of balancing jewellery making with a busy life.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Emma White, finalist on the BBC show “All That Glitters” (1:24) How did you become a jewellery maker? (2:38)  When did you decide to turn jewellery into a business? (5:07) How have you overcome doubts and a desire to give up? (7:15) Can you tell us about your journey to getting your own space? (8:38) Why did you decide to apply for the show? (12:40) What has helped you manage your busy life and your ambition? (17:30) What was the highlight of being on the show for you? (21:30) How do you deal with self-criticism? (24:59) Can you tell us about your business now? (28:17) What advice do you have for people struggling to put themselves out there? (34:59) What’s next for you? (38:14) How to connect with Emma (42:19)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Follow Emma on Instagram Follow The Jewellery Makers on Instagram Join Emma’s mailing list

If you’ve ever wondered if the Diploma in Silver Jewellery could be the next step on your jewellery making journey, this episode is for you! Jess talks with two of the diploma’s mentors, Kim Thomson and Zoe Leavy, about 10 benefits you can experience by joining the diploma programme. Jess, Kim, and Zoe also share their own experiences with overcoming perfectionism, finding a creative outlet, and more.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Kim Thomson and Zoe Leavy about 10 benefits of joining the Diploma in Silver Jewellery  (1:07) 1. Grow your business (2:44) 2. Develop your making skills (5:45) 3. Carve out time to do something for yourself (10:02) 4. Build a solid foundation as a maker (14:32) 5. Learn what you do and don’t like (18:47) 6. Get support and accountability (27:23) 7. Make things you didn’t think you could possibly make (32:55) 8. Get tips from a broad spectrum of different jewellers (30:35) 9. Be part of a community of makers (41:30) 10. Push yourself out of your comfort zone (45:19) How to get connected (53:46)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Diploma in Silver Jewellery | Open Event Diploma in Fine Jewellery | Open Event Follow Kim on Instagram Follow Zoe on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Marketa Garne didn’t expect jewellery making to ever be more than a hobby, but when the pandemic hit, she had the opportunity to hone her skills through our online diploma programmes. In this episode, Marketa shares her story of falling in love with jewellery, overcoming fear and doubt, and developing her signature style. She also offers some advice for aspiring jewellers and explains how the Jewellers Academy helped her grow in her skills and confidence.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Marketa Garne of Booblinka Jewellery (1:41) How did you get involved with jewellery making? (2:44) What inspired you to join one of the jewellery diplomas? (12:12) What was your experience like with the silver jewellery diploma? (17:05) When did you decide to start your business? (20:02) How have you overcome moments of fear and doubt? (24:57) Can you tell us about your experience with the Jewellers Retreat? (28:22) Why did you decide to continue with the fine jewellery diploma? (30:29) How has your signature style evolved? (35:09) What advice do you have for aspiring jewellers? (38:20) How to connect with Marketa (40:42)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Diploma in Silver Jewellery | Open Event Diploma in Fine Jewellery | Open Event Watch The Jewellers Retreat Follow Marketa on Instagram  Booblinka Jewellery Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

With today’s episode, we’re kicking off our brand new course, “10 Days of Silver Jewellery Making.” Jessica walks us through the 10 pieces of jewellery you’ll make as part of this course, and she explains how you can get involved for free.  Jewellers at every skill and experience level are welcome!    Episode Description: Today we’re kicking off a brand-new course, 10 days of silver jewellery making (0:49) Here are the ten things we’ll be making during this course (2:19) Ready to learn more? Check out our diploma programmes (6:30)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Sign Up for the 10 Days of Silver Jewellery Making Diploma in Silver Jewellery | Open Event Diploma in Fine Jewellery | Open Event Advanced Jewellery Diploma | Open Event Jewellery Design and Business Diploma | Open Event     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Corrine Whillock is proof that it’s possible to grow a successful jewellery business from scratch, as she built her business to £30k in sales in just one year. In this episode, Corrine explains how the Jewellery Business Bootcamp helped her gain the confidence and knowledge she needed to invest in her business and start making sales. She also shares practical advice for other jewellers about overcoming fear, figuring out your pricing, and marketing your jewellery business.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Corrine Whillock of Lulu and Boo Jewellery (1:33) How did you become a jeweller? (3:13) Why did you decide to join the Jewellery Business Bootcamp? (9:31) What areas of the bootcamp helped you the most? (11:37) Where did many of your sales come from? (17:05) How have you worked out your pricing? (23:14) Did you have any fear? What did you do to overcome it? (25:28) What’s next for you? (28:03) What advice do you have about making 2023 a great year? (32:33) Can you tell us about your jewellery? (35:47) How to connect with Corinne (40:07)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Sign up for the 2023 Jewellery Business Bootcamp  Follow Corinne on Instagram and Facebook Lulu & Boo Jewellery website    Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Are you ready to test your knowledge and learn some fun facts about gemstones, the history of jewellery, and more? Join us for this special episode, where the Jewellers Academy team members — Jessica Rose, Barbara Yarde, Hayley Kruger, Kim Thomson, and Anna Campbell — quiz each other and you about all things jewellery.    Episode Description: Today we’re sharing a fun quiz about jewellery (1:19) What is a boulder opal? (3:08) What type of gemstone was included in the most expensive jewellery ever sold? (6:58) What was the codename for the first ever synthetic diamond? (12:56) What is badger balm used for in metal clay? (15:54) What number is higher, gross profit or net profit? (17:36) What material is the oldest jewellery found made from? (21:17) What were the bronzes returned by the Horniman Museum? (26:44) Which historical figure used to use peridot as eyeshadow? (30:45) Can you get gold metal clay? (33:52) Quickfire round (36:22) How to connect with the participants (49:39)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Barbara Yarde Jewels website and Instagram Hayley Kruger’s website, Instagram, and TikTok Kim Thomson’s website and Instagram Anna Campbell’s jewellery making classes and Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Procrastination is a natural part of running a creative business, but it doesn’t need to control you. In this episode, Patricia van den Akker explains why we procrastinate and shares practical tips for overcoming this habit. Patricia is the founder and director of The Design Trust, an online business school for designers and makers, and the creator of an annual planner designed specifically for creative business owners.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Patrica van den Akker  of The Design Trust (1:20) What is procrastination, and how does it show up for jewellers? (2:00) How does ADHD play into procrastination? (7:57) Why are deadlines and time boundaries so important? (12:53) Why do we procrastinate? (16:58) How does stepping away from your work help you get more done? (22:14) What is the connection between procrastination and imposter syndrome? (26:28) How do you set mini goals? (30:01) How does perfectionism lead us to procrastinate? (35:23) What is the thrill of the last minute, and how do we overcome it? (38:58) How can the Design Trust planner help us stay organised? (50:21)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order your copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” “Atomic Habits” by James Clear The Design Trust diary The Design Trust planner   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you’re interested in developing your signature style and diving deep into learning how to run a successful jewellery business, our new diploma programme is for you! In this episode, Jessica tells us all about the brand new jewellery design and business diploma. She talks through each week of the curriculum, describes the benefits you can access by enroling, and shares how you can find out more about each of our four diplomas.    Episode Description: In this episode we’re introducing our brand new diploma programme (1:30) Year 1: Diploma in silver jewellery (2:57) Year 2: Diploma in fine jewellery (5:45) Year 3: Advanced jewellery diploma (6:28) Our brand new diploma: Jewellery design and business diploma (8:38) What to expect from the new curriculum (9:47) Added benefits for participants in the course (25:32) Final projects for the diploma (28:32) How to sign up (32:19)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Diploma in Silver Jewellery | Open Event Diploma in Fine Jewellery | Open Event Advanced Jewellery Diploma | Open Event Jewellery Design and Business Diploma   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Whether you’re trying to come up with things to ask for for Christmas or you want to treat yourself to a special gift this year, this episode is for you! Jessica shares her top 10 recommendations for Christmas gifts that any jeweller will appreciate, along with specific examples of the products and tools she loves and where to find them.    Episode Description: In this episode I’ll share 10 Christmas ideas for jewellers this year (1:34) 1. Rotary Tumbler (3:20) 2. Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business (5:48) 3. Vegan leather apron (6:57) 4. Pendant Motor (8:07) 5. Photo boards (10:03) 6. Electric wax carver (11:48) 7. DesignTrust business planner (14:02) 8. Kiln (15:20) 9. Saw (17:38) 10. Pegboards (19:19)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group    Products Mentioned in this Episode Foredom Rotary Tumbler “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Wolf and Badger Vegan Leather Apron Foredom Pendant Motor SR Photo Boards Foredom Electric Wax Carver The DesignTrust Planner Paragon SC2 Kiln Green Lion Saw IKEA Skadis Pegboard System   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Metal clay is an exciting material to work with, but it presents some unique challenges when it comes to making rings. In this episode, Jessica and Anna Campbell share a preview of our brand new course, “Ring Making in Metal Clay.” They explain how you can get a discounted rate on the course, and Anna breaks down her top five tips for making metal clay rings.    Episode Description: Today we’ll be talking about our new course, “Ring Making in Metal Clay” (1:10) What excites you about working with metal clay? (2:57) Tip 1: Always use fresh clay when making a ring band (8:40) What are the three rings we make in the course? (11:39) Tip 2: Spend some extra time on the finishing and refining (14:05) Tip 3: Invest in a larger ring sizer (16:27) Tip 4: Use a food dehydrator to dry your ring before firing (21:59) Tip 5: Have a “kiln book” to track temperatures, sizes, etc. (25:07) What makes this course special? (29:17)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Sign up for the Maker’s Membership to get access to all our courses Enrol in our new course, “Ring Making in Metal Clay” Plastic Ring Sizer Wheatsheaf Ring Gauge   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Corkie Bolton knew from the time she was in high school that she wanted to be a jeweller. Today, she’s the founder of Corkie Bolton Jewelry, and of Metalsmith Society, a community where jewellers can ask questions and share their knowledge. In this episode, Corkie opens up about her journey to starting her businesses, and she shares some goals she hopes to achieve in the future. Corkie also gives us a preview of her brand new book, “Metalsmith Society’s Guide to Making Jewelry.”    Episode Description: Today we’ll be talking with Corkie Bolton, founder of Metalsmith Society (1:06) How did you get involved in jewellery making? (2:43) What gave you the push to start your own business? (9:50) How did the Metalsmith Society start? (16:53) What are your brand pillars, and why are they so important to you? (24:30) How did your book come to be? (27:52) Can you tell us about your jewellery business and your goals for it? (36:27) How to connect with Corkie (43:15)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Corkie Bolton Jewelry Website Metalsmith Society Website Follow Corkie on Instagram and TikTok Preorder “Metalsmith Society's Guide To Making Jewelry”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you haven’t used Argentium silver before, you’re missing out. In this episode, we talk with the inventor of Argentium silver himself, Peter Johns. Peter shares the fascinating story behind the creation of this material, and he answers some of our jewellers top questions about working with Argentium, sharing tips for soldering, fusing Argentium with gold, hardening, polishing, and much more.    Episode Description: Today we’ll be talking with Peter Johns, the inventor of Argentium silver (1:25) How did you become a maker? (2:53) Why did you decide to invent this new material? (7:40) When was it ready to sell? (14:47) What are the benefits of using Argentium silver? (18:40) What is the difference between 925 and 940? (28:33) What is the best way to fuse Argentium with gold? (38:32) Can you share any tips for soldering Argentium? (40:17) Can you cast Argentium? (47:56) How do you recommend heat hardening? (50:49) What are your tips for polishing and finishing Argentium? (55:45) How to learn more about Argentium (1:00:37)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Argentium Silver Website  Argentium Guild Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Building trust and desire with your customers takes time, so now is the time to start marketing for Christmas! In this episode, Jessica breaks down her top tips for marketing your jewellery business via social media, email, and in-person networking. She shares some Instagram content ideas that work especially well for the holiday season, offers advice about discounts and promotions, and encourages listeners to get creative with their marketing. Wherever you are in your jewellery business journey, this episode has something for you!    Episode Description: Thank you for buying and supporting the book! (1:41) Now is the time to start marketing for Christmas (4:06) What types of posts work well for this season? (9:30) Consider collaborating with other small business (10:58) Going live is a great way to connect with followers (12:02)  Start emailing your list, even if it’s small (13:59) Make a plan for the next six weeks (16:41) If you’re going to offer a deal, consider adding something rather than discounting (17:40) Don’t be afraid to get creative! (21:51) Try branching out to groups or events that can expand your network (24:34) Not sure where to start? Try this first. (28:30) Think about ways to make Black Friday work for your business (30:20)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Learn More About the Handmade and Well Paid Campaign    Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

“Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” is officially available, and in this episode, we’re giving you a behind the scenes look at the process of writing, designing, and printing this book. Emma René, the owner of Narratorium jewellery and the designer of this book, walks us through the process from start to finish and shares a sneak peek at some of the special features and topics covered in this book.    Episode Description: Today we’ll talk with Emma René about the process of designing the new book (1:32) Can you tell us about your background as a jeweller, designer, and marketer? (3:19) Why did we decide to make a book? (8:01) What was your process for designing the book? (17:08) What’s your favourite part of the book? (25:26) What is the profit kit? (30:51) Can you tell us about the printing process? (35:17)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Join Us for the Book Launch Narratorium website Follow Emma René on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

You’ve probably heard stories of jewellers who’ve found success on TikTok, but if you’ve never posted before, getting started can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Jessica Irwin of Violet Moon Jewelry is telling us all about her experience with growing her business on TikTok. Jessica shares her top tips for jewelelrs who are new to the app, explains how she stays motivated and inspired, and shares some real-life examples of how posting on TikTok increased her sales.    Episode Description: Today we’ll be talking with Jessica Irwin of Violet Moon Jewelry (1:16) How did you start making jewellery? (2:17)  When did you start posting on TikTok? (5:57) What types of content typically perform best for you on TikTok? (9:37) How does a viral video translate to business growth for you? (10:52) Do you enjoy creating content? (12:17) How often do you post? (14:20) What advice do you have for someone who’s just starting on TikTok? (16:24) How should TikTok content differ from Instagram? (19:15) Where do you get inspiration for your content creation? (22:34) What goals do you have for your TikTok? (25:59) How to connect with Jessica (29:34)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Violet Moon Jewelry Follow Violet Moon Jewelry on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

No matter what the economy is doing, you can build a thriving, successful jewellery business. In this episode, Jessica Rose and Community Manager Anna C Campbell share five important things to focus on in the midst of a financial crisis. They explain how our new book, “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” can help you better understand your finances, find inspiration from other jewellers, and much more. Anna and Jessica also tell listeners about a special opportunity to get a free online course, so you won’t want to miss this episode!    Episode Description: Today we’ll be talking with Anna C Campbell about building a resilient business (1:15) “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” is out this week! (3:02) Order the book on Oct. 20 and get a free course on Money Mindset for Jewellers (3:59) It’s possible for jewellery businesses to thrive no matter what the economy is like (9:06) 1. Understand the finances in your jewellery business (11:55) 2. Find your focus (18:42) 3. Find your identity as a jeweller (25:03) 4. Find your customers (33:46) 5. Focus on growing your business (40:58) Why is community so important for jewellers? (45:10)   About Anna C Campbell Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Order Your Copy of “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” Learn more about the Money Mindset for Jewellers course Register for our book launch event!    Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

With so many places to buy jewellery supplies, it can feel overwhelming when you’re first starting out. In this episode, Jessica Rose shares a list of her favourite places to buy supplies, including everything from tools to gemstones to packaging. She also encourages you to join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group to find recommendations from other jewellers for suppliers in your part of the world.    Episode Description: Today we’ll talk about Jessica’s favourite places to buy jewellery supplies (0:50) General Jewellery Making Supplies: Cooksongold (3:43) Tools: HS Walsh and Cousins UK (6:34) Metals: Palmer Metals (9:09) Gemstones: Kernowcraft, Wards Gemstones, The Curious Gem, Bellore, Shangri La Gems (10:18) Findings: International Craft (14:47) Beads: iBeads, Spoilt Rotten Beads, Beads Direct, Creative Bead Craft (15:32) Ethically Sourced Gemstones: Nineteen48 (18:07) Enamel: Vitrum Signum (19:11) Wires: Wires.co.uk (19:51) Resin: Resin8, House of Resin (21:15) Metal Clay: Metal Clay Ltd., Cool Tools (21:51) Packaging: West Pack, Tiny Box Co., Potters (22:55) Wax Casting: West 1 Castings, Just Castings, Black Arts Casting (24:16) Tell us about your favourite suppliers! (24:52)    Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group  Find links to all of the suppliers mentioned on our resource page   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook  

Clare Yuille realised that no one really teaches makers how to pitch themselves and their work to retailers, so she decided to do something about it. As the founder of Indie Retail Academy, Clare helps jewellers and other makers sell their work to independent stores. In this episode, Clare shares some of her top tips for building and managing relationships with retailers, advice for selling during the holidays, and more.     Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Clare Yuille, founder of the Indie Retail Academy (0:50) Can you tell us about your background that inspired you to help makers? (2:25) What are your top tips for jewellers about managing relationships with retailers? (8:19) How can you help make sure your jewellery sells once it’s in the store? (16:34) When is the right time to get in touch with retailers? (21:03) What annoys retailers the most? (23:23) Who is your favourite supplier, and why? (28:48) How to learn more from Clare (31:59)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Indie Retail Academy Beginners Guides   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

If you want your jewellery business to grow, you need to commit to marketing it as consistently as you can. In this episode, jeweller Elin Horgan shares the strategies and routines that have helped her successfully market her business, without taking too much time away from the actual process of making. Elin is one of the featured case studies in Jessica’s book, “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business,” and she has so much valuable insight to offer!    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with jeweller and teacher Elin Horgan (0:50) How did you develop your marketing skills when building your business? (2:10) What does your marketing calendar include, and how often do you work on it? (6:17) Do you set marketing goals for yourself? (10:58) How do you deal with failure or low engagement? (14:09) Can you tell us about your content creation process? (17:23) How do you approach email marketing? (23:19) What is your number one marketing tip for other jewellers? (28:11) How to connect with Elin (30:01)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the book club Facebook group  Sign up for the “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” mailing list  Follow Elin on Instagram Elin Horgan’s website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Developing your signature style as a maker is a constantly evolving process. And sometimes, you may not even realise that you have a recognizable style until someone else points it out to you! This was the experience of Ange Benjamin, who is the owner of Ange B Designs and a featured case study in Jessica’s book, “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business.” In this episode, Ange describes her journey of figuring out her style, and she shares tips for rediscovering your inspiration when you feel stuck, making the things you love, and staying true to your brand while still trying new things.    Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Ange Benjamin of Ange B Designs (0:50) How did you become a jeweller? (2:25) How has your style developed since you first started making jewellery? (5:17) Do you design jewellery with your customers in mind, or focus on what you like? (7:44) What do you do when you get stuck? (12:32) Can you tell us about your photography? (15:21) How has your community helped you identify your unique style? (18:44) How do you balance trying new things with staying true to your style? (22:34) Where to connect with Ange (24:45) What advice do you have for jewellers trying to discover their signature style? (25:32)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the book club Facebook group  Sign up for the “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business” mailing list  Ange B Designs website Follow Ange on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

You’ve seen her on television, and now she’s joining us on the podcast to talk about all things jewellery making! Nyanda Yekwai was a contestant on the BBC2 show “All That Glitters,” and in this episode, she shares some behind the scenes stories about what it was like to be on the show. Nyanda also describes her experience of becoming a jeweller and shares her best advice for anyone who’s just starting out in the business.   Episode Description: Today we’re talking with Nyanda Yekwai, a contestant on “All That Glitters” (0:50) How did you become a jeweller? (2:13) What was it like to start your business? (6:48) Where do you find inspiration for your work? (9:23) Can you tell us about your experience on the show? (11:05) Why did you decide to apply for the show? (17:03) How did you manage nerves and stress? (19:27) What’s one piece of advice you'd give to a newer jeweller? (21:54) Where to find Nyanda online (25:20)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Follow Nyanda on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

You don’t need thousands of customers to have a profitable jewellery business, but you do need to understand which stage of business you’re in and plan accordingly. In this episode, Jessica Rose shares a preview of her upcoming book, “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business,” which talks about the three stages of growing your jewellery business. Jessica also explains who the book is for, what concepts it covers, and how you can stay up to date on all the events and resources surrounding the book’s release!    Episode Description: Today Jessica is sharing about her new book, “Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business (0:50) What key concepts does the book cover? (8:29) Creating a profitable jewellery business is possible for you! (15:27) What stage is your business in right now? (16:39) Stage One: Utilise your network to make your first £10,000 (18:10) Stage Two: In the £10,000-50,000 stage, focus on building new networks (22:47) Stage Three: Bring in new customers and cultivate loyalty by building community (26:11)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Join the book club Facebook group  Sign up for the mailing list to stay up-to-date on the book release   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Choosing the right prices is not just about picking numbers that you people will be willing to pay; it’s also about having confidence in yourself and not undercutting your fellow makers. To help ensure jewellers are paid enough for the work they do, we’re so excited to announce the Handmade and Well Paid Campaign. In this episode, Jessica Rose and Community Manager Anna Campbell share everything you need to know about this new campaign. They also talk about why pricing is so important and explain how building a community of other jewellers can help you succeed.    Episode Description: Today we’ll share about our brand new campaign: Handmade and Well Paid (0:50) What inspired us to create this campaign? (2:34) Why is pricing so important? (4:27) What resources are available within this campaign? (11:03) How can building a community help jewellers in this area? (24:04) How to get involved with the Well Paid Well Made campaign (28:52)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Find more Handmade and Well Paid Resources Sign the Pledge Learn more about the new book: “How to Start and Grow a Profitable Jewellery Business”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Hallmarking protects both the jewellery making trade and the people purchasing jewellery, but how does it translate to online jewellery sales? In this episode, Marion Wilson from the British Hallmarking Council and Charlotte Turner from the London Assay Office discuss The HALO Award — an exciting new initiative that’s encouraging jewellers to get creative about promoting their hallmarks online. Marion and Charlotte explain how you can apply for the award, and they also share some practical tips for jewellers who want to promote their hallmark online but aren’t sure where to start.   Episode Description: Today we’ll talk with Marion Wilson and Charlotte Turner about the HALO Award for promoting your hallmark online (0:50) What is the HALO Award, and why is it important for jewellers? (1:57) What happens if you win the HALO Award? (6:16) Why should jewellers promote their hallmark? (7:17) Can you share some tips for jewellers interested in promoting their hallmark? (13:05) Why is this award especially important now? (17:06) What can jewellers do to educate consumers? (23:44) Who can win the HALO Award? (33:14) How to learn more about hallmarking and the HALO Award (35:20)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube   Apply for the HALO Award Download the Digital Dealers Notice Goldsmith’s Guide to Hallmarking British Hallmarking Council Website The Goldsmiths’ Company Assay Office Website (London) The National Association of Jewellers Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Search Engine Optimization is a powerful tool for helping people to find your business online, but getting started can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Jessica Rose shares her top five, free tips to start improving your jewellery business’ SEO today! Whether you’re a new jewellery or you’ve been growing your business for years, these simple strategies can help you take your brand to the next level.    Episode Description: This week we’ll talk through 5 tips for improving your SEO (0:50) Start by looking at who’s coming to your website and how they’re getting there (1:40) 1. Research your keywords and list out 10-20 (3:53) 2. Find out what’s currently ranking for those keywords (9:15) 3. Write blog posts or pages dedicated to your target keywords (11:58)  4. Label all of your images with keywords in mind (15:44) 5. Think about how you can use channels like YouTube and Pinterest (19:58)   Resources Learn more about Jewellers Academy Watch this episode on YouTube Google Trends   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

When Alice Cant decided to start making jewellery, she knew she’d need some guidance. Alice completed the Jewellers Academy Diploma in Silver Jewellery, and she uses the lessons she learned to create beautiful sea glass jewellery for her business, Alice Catherine Jewellery. In this episode, Alice describes her experience with joining a diploma programme as a relative beginner. She also explains why sea glass inspires her and shares how she manages the unique challenge of making jewellery with a material she finds in nature.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with Alice Cant about making sea glass jewellery and her experience with the Silver Diploma (0:50) How did you become a jewellery maker? (2:07) What was it like to start the diploma as a relative beginner? (4:42) What sparked your interest in sea glass? (7:20) What is it like to make jewellery with a material you gather yourself? (10:52) Can you tell us about your favourite and least favourite projects in the diploma? (12:32) When did you start your business, and what was that like? (18:21) How do you approach Instagram reels? (24:26) What has been your biggest achievement so far? (27:21) What’s next for you? (30:48) How to connect with Alice (32:24)   Resources Learn more about the Silver Jewellery Diploma Watch this episode on YouTube Alice Catherine Jewellery Follow Alice on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Email marketing is a powerful tool for jewellers, but only if you’re getting people to actually read what you send them. In this episode, Anna C Campbell is taking over the podcast to share her top tips for creating emails that people will want to read. She also explains how to avoid getting your emails flagged as spam, and she discusses some of the reasons why email marketing is still important in 2022. Anna is the part-time community manager for Jewellers Academy, and she’s also a coach for creative business owners.    Episode Description: In this episode, Anna C Campbell is taking over the podcast to talk about email (0:50) Why is email marketing still important, and how do you use it well? (2:39) 1. Have one person in mind, and write to them (5:24) 2. Think about what you would want to read (7:24) 3. Stick to a consistent schedule (10:22) 4. Encourage people to engage and reply (12:05) 5. Don’t call it a newsletter or mailing list (13:40) 6. How to get around a spam filter (14:59) 7. Remember to sell (19:16)   About Anna C Campbell Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram   Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Create a Winning Welcome Email Sequence with Jessica Rose Follow Anna Campbell on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Features or mentions in a publication are one of the best ways to get your jewellery business in front of new customers and to increase your credibility. In this episode, Jessica Rose shares a simple, five-step process for finding, contacting, and pitching your business to magazines, blogs, podcasts, and industry influencers. Whether this is your first time getting press, or you’ve done it before but want to build a more consistent press strategy, this episode is full of valuable tips and tricks!    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll discuss five steps to get press for your jewellery business (0:50) Why is press valuable for your brand? (1:18) 1. Make a list of 10-20 places where you’d like to be featured (3:24) 2. Find the contact information for a specific person at the publication (9:17) 3. Plan out your pitch and find a unique angle or topic (13:50) 4. Write your press release (21:05) 5. Follow up once (25:07) Don’t forget to include high-quality, high-res, and relevant images (25:50) Invite people to attend a class with you, or even send them jewellery (27:06)   Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Kernowcraft Blog   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

It’s been one year since we filmed The Jewellers Retreat, so in this episode, we’re catching up with the three jewellers who participated in the show. Sally Costen, Marketa Garne, and Jasmine Butler share an update on the ways their businesses and lives have changed in the past year. They also reflect on the biggest lessons they learned from completing the challenge and from completing the Diploma in Fine Jewellery.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with “The Jewellers Retreat” participants one year later (0:50) Marketa, how does it feel to be one year past filming the show? (2:38)  Jasmine, what has the past year been like for you? (5:06) Sally, can you tell us about your business and any updates from the past year? (7:09) What have you learned from the retreat and the fine jewellery diploma? (9:39) What would you say to someone considering doing “The Jewellers Retreat?” (16:58) How have you embraced the ebb and flow of running a jewellery business? (21:21)  What were your favourite moments in the show? (28:28)   Resources Watch this episode on YouTube Watch the first episode of “The Jewellers Retreat” Booblinka Jewellery (Marketa Garne) Jas Jewellery (Jasmine Butler) The Clerkenwell Jeweller (Sally Costen) Learn more about our diploma programmes   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

What are the advantages of teaching jewellery making, and how do you know when you’re experienced enough to teach? Anna Campbell answers these questions and more in this episode, which is all about her experience as a jewellery making instructor. Anna is the community manager at Jewellers Academy, and she talks about overcoming imposter syndrome, building a connection with the broader jewellery making community, and seeing her jewellery business grow as a result of her teaching. Anna also shares a preview of our brand new course, “Teaching Jewellery Making.”   Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with Anna Campbell about teaching jewellery making (0:50) How did you start teaching jewellery making? (2:07) Did you struggle with imposter syndrome when you became a jewellery teacher? (6:17) How has teaching connected you to the jewellery making community? (12:00) Can you tell us about the income side of teaching? (13:42) What’s your favourite part of teaching? (17:23) Do students often buy your jewellery? (19:33) Can you talk about the flexibility that teaching jewellery making offers? (24:48) What will students learn from the Teaching Jewellery Making course? (28:03) Do you have any other words of wisdom for other teachers or aspiring teachers? (34:04)   Resources Watch the episode on YouTube Register for the new Teaching Jewellery Making course!    Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

Purchasing a foredom pendant motor is one of the most important investments you can make in your jewellery business. But with so many different motor types, attachments, and confusing terminology, it’s difficult to know what to buy. In this episode, Petra Cameron of Metal Clay Ltd. shares a helpful guide to choosing a pendant motor. She describes the different types of motors, flex shafts, speed controls, and hand pieces, and she shares a basic list of the things every new jeweller should purchase.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with Petra Cameron about choosing a pendant motor (0:50) What is the first decision to make when buying a pendant motor? (6:30) What are the differences between the main types of pendant motors? (11:14) Which type of flex shaft is best? (15:17) Should you get a desk speed control or a foot pedal? (17:57) What are the most important hand pieces for jewellers to buy? (22:45) Which attachments are your favourite? (34:16) Can you talk us through the basic things a new jeweller should buy? (37:42) How to connect with Petra (40:50)   Resources Watch the episode on YouTube Metal Clay Ltd. Website Follow Metal Clay Ltd. on Facebook and YouTube   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook

When it comes to email marketing, getting started is often the hardest part. To help with that, we’ve created a free five-day challenge that guides you through the process of creating a winning welcome email sequence for your jewellery business. In this episode, Jessica Rose talks through the steps for each of the five days of the challenge. She also explains why email marketing is such a large opportunity for jewellers, and she shares some valuable tips for creating a great welcome sequence and optimising your emails for higher open rates.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk through a five-day challenge for creating a welcome email sequence (0:50) Day 1: Plan your sequence (3:00) Day 2: Create your first email; this will be the most-opened one (3:43) Day 3: Refine and finish the first email (4:56)  Day 4: Create your second email; this one is all about you (5:20) Day 5: Create your third email; finish the sequence with a strong call to action (5:50) Why is email marketing so important? (7:08) What to include in a welcome email sequence (11:34) Don’t be afraid to ask for feedback from your subscribers (18:49) How to optimise your subject line and preview text (20:18)   Resources Join the Free Five-Day Challenge   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

It’s never too early to start planning for the holiday season as a jeweller! In fact, starting now can help you make sure you have enough time to complete your work in advance, so that when November hits you can focus most of your energy on marketing. In this episode, Jessica Rose walks listeners through the process of completing a mid-year review, and she breaks down the most important questions jewellers should start thinking about today in order to ensure a successful and low-stress holiday season. Whether it’s your first holiday season in the jewellery business or your tenth, this episode is full of practical takeaways!    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be doing a mid-year review and looking ahead to the Christmas season (0:50) Take five minutes to ask yourself these questions about the first half of the year (3:26) What do you want from the next chapter? (8:13) Set 3 goals for the Christmas season: income, marketing, and a soft goal (8:58) What products do you plan to sell this holiday season? (10:44) What supplies will you need? (12:58) Consider your packaging. Should you change it, order more, or charge more? (14:24) Are there processes you can change or improve upon? (17:02) Will you do any fairs and events, and what do you need to do to prepare? (18:44) Do you plan to sell any wholesale jewellery this holiday season? (19:52) Now is the time to create your marketing plan (22:46) 1. Social Media: What channel will you post to daily? (24:10) 2. Email Marketing: How can you grow or nurture your email list? (25:00) 3. Website or Platform: Where is the main place customers can buy from you? (25:36) Start brainstorming content ideas and key themes (25:57) Give yourself as much time as possible to reduce your stress (29:27)   Resources Your FREE Planner Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Apply for JewelFund   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

If you’re looking for ways to take your jewellery business to the next level  — whether that looks like building a new website, hiring staff, or purchasing new tools — the 2022 JewelFund could help you reach your next business goal. In this episode, Anna Sweet of This Story Jewellery explains how winning a JewelFund grant helped her grow her business. Anna also describes the process of developing her unique style and building a loyal following on social media.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking with Anna Sweet, owner of This Story Jewellery and previous JewelFund winner (0:50) How did you become a jeweller? (3:21) What inspired you to build a brand that’s centred around stories? (5:50) Do you struggle to share personal stories online? (10:31) How have you built a community through your business? (12:33) What have been the biggest highlights of your jewellery making journey? (14:55) Can you share your experience with applying for JewelFund? (17:05) How did you use the JewelFund money? (19:47) What would you say to someone who’s thinking of applying to JewelFund? (22:56) What’s next for you and your business? (25:22) How to connect with Anna (26:11)   Resources Follow This Story Jewellery on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook This Story Jewellery Website Apply for JewelFund   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Kate Arbon combines her love of precious metals and the sea to create beautiful, unique pieces for her brand, Kathryn Arbon Jewellery. Kate is also an excellent teacher who runs Sea and Silver Jewellery School and serves as a Jewellers Academy mentor. In this episode, Kate discusses her journey as a jeweller, from receiving metalsmith training to working for a goldsmith to deciding to start her own business. She also explains how she finds inspiration for her designs and shares some of the advice she gives to new jewellers about dealing with challenges and finding their own unique style.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking with one of our Jewellers Academy mentors, Kate Arbon (0:50) What motivated you to become a jeweller? (1:54) What did you learn from working as a jobbing jeweller? (6:02) Where do you find inspiration for your designs? (7:29)  Why do you enjoy teaching and mentoring other jewellers? (11:53) What are some of the career moments that have stood out for you? (13:50) How do you help students when they’re struggling or want to give up? (16:09) Can you tell us about your upcoming exhibitions? (17:39) What advice would you give to jewellers who are just starting out? (21:42) How to connect with Kate (23:08)   Resources Follow Kathryn Arbon Jewellery and Sea and Silver Jewellery School on Instagram Sea and Silver Jewellery School Website Register for a 2022 Diploma Course     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

There’s a large market for bridal jewellery and accessories, including everything from handmade bouquets to tiaras. In this episode, Gail Florio of Florio Designs shares her experience working in the wedding jewellery space. She explains the process for making her unique brooch and fabric bouquets and offers advice to other jewellery makers who are interested in the bridal business. Gail also discusses the lessons she’s learned about balance and time management while running her successful business, working a corporate job, and raising a daughter.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking with Gail Florio about wedding and bridal jewellery (0:50) When did you become interested in jewellery making? (2:21) Can you tell us about the brooch and fabric bouquets you make? (10:59) How do you structure your days to balance your business, motherhood, and a corporate job? (14:30) How has developing a niche helped your business stand out from the crowd? (26:21) What is your approach to pricing? (32:45) What advice do you have for someone who’s starting a bridal business? (39:47) How to connect with Gail (44:41)   Resources Follow Florio Designs on Facebook Florio Designs on Etsy Register for a 2022 Diploma Course     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Do you ever feel like giving up on your jewellery business? You’re not alone! Running a creative business is challenging, and it's natural to go through challenging periods. In this episode, Hayley Kruger shares her story of navigating the ups and downs of running a jewellery business. She also describes the strategies that have helped her get through challenges and offers advice about the importance of investing in your business, taking time for yourself, and accepting your unique journey.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking with Hayley Kruger about the importance of not giving up as a jeweller (0:50) Can you tell us about times when you felt like giving up on your business? (2:25) How do you deal with disappointment when you’re in a challenging place? (6:04) What strategies have been most helpful for navigating hard times? (10:16) Why is it important to embrace your unique journey? (12:38) How do you balance celebrating the wins and pushing yourself to be better? (17:10) Can you talk about your courses in the Advanced Diploma? (19:43) How have you continued to improve your making skills over the years? (21:24) Do you struggle to invest in yourself and your business? (25:22) How has the way you deal with challenges changed? (31:56) What would you say to someone who feels like they can’t do it anymore? (36:15) How to connect with Hayley (38:36)   Resources Follow Hayley on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok Register for the 2022 Advanced Jewellery Diploma     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

If you’ve ever wondered whether a Jewellers Academy diploma programme might be the right fit for you, this episode can help answer your questions. Emma Brook and Jasmine Butler are both students in our Silver Jewellery Diploma, and in this episode, they dive deep into discussing their experience with the programme. Jasmine and Emma explain what inspired them to enrol, share their time management tips, reflect on their favourite projects, and explain what they’ve learned about both the business and creative sides of jewellery making.   Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking with two of our silver jewellery diploma students, Jasmine Butler and Emma Brook (0:50) What led you to sign up for the silver jewellery diploma? (1:37) How did you manage getting all the tools and materials? (9:13) What has been your favourite project so far? What has been most challenging? (12:43) Which projects are you looking forward to in Term 3? (16:40) Can you tell us about your experience working with a mentor? (18:19) How has the course helped you on the business side? (22:23) What time management strategies have worked for you during the diploma? (27:23) How to connect with Emma and Jasmine (34:47)   Resources Register for the 2022 Diploma in Silver Jewellery Follow Jasmine on Instagram Follow Emma on Instagram and Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Stone setting is a difficult technique to master, but when you learn it well, it creates so many new opportunities. In this episode, master stone setter and Vanilla Ink founder Scott McIntyre discusses three different types of stone settings, the techniques and tools required to do them successfully, and other tips for building this complex skill set. He also shares a preview of some of the material we’ll cover in the Advanced Jewellery Diploma and explains what tools you’ll need for the programme.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking about stone setting with Scott McIntyre (0:50) What is stone setting? (3:07)  Why is it important to keep trying even when you feel you’re not good at this skill? (9:23) How do you know what tools to use when? (13:15) What are some of the different techniques people use for pavé setting? (18:05)  What are tension and channel settings? (23:17) How do you practice techniques when materials are so expensive? (28:13) Can you talk about the toolkit you’ve created for the advanced diploma? (36:03) How do you let your perfectionism help you instead of getting discouraged by it? (41:21) How to learn more or connect with Scott (47:33)   Resources Register for the 2022 Advanced Jewellery Diploma Follow Vanilla Ink on Instagram Vanilla Ink Website “Stone Setting” by Scott McIntyre   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

For the first time ever, we’re excited to be offering an Advanced Jewellery Diploma for jewellers looking to build new technical skills, grow their businesses and further develop their signature styles. In this episode, Jessica Rose provides an overview of the projects, skills, and materials involved in the curriculum. She also shares a preview of the amazing mentors you’ll have the opportunity to learn from throughout the programme.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking about our new advanced jewellery diploma (2:47) The course focuses on technical skills, signature style, and business growth (6:23) What tools and materials will I need? (10:40) How is the programme structured? (13:19)  Who are the mentors behind this diploma? (19:23) What skills do I need before starting this diploma? (25:06) What projects are included in the curriculum? (26:35) How much does the programme cost? (40:05) How can I find out more information? (42:44)   Resources Register for the 2022 Advanced Jewellery Diploma   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

It’s natural for your business to grow and evolve over time, and as that happens, you may need to update your branding to reflect the changes. In this episode, Kate Seow describes her experience with rebranding Prosecco and Rubies to reflect her growing interest in bespoke fine jewellery. She walks us through the rebrand process from beginning to end and shares advice for anyone else who’s thinking about revisiting their business’ branding.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with Kate Seow about rebranding a jewellery business (0:50) When did you first get interested in jewellery? (2:18) How did you transition from beading to fine jewellery? (6:52) Can you walk us through your branding journey? (9:35) What made you decide that rebranding was worth the cost? (13:49) Can you describe the rebrand process? (16:26) How did you create your new website and photography? (23:35) Where do you want your business to go next? (26:48) What advice do you have for anyone who’s considering doing a rebrand? (28:24) How to connect with Kate (29:54)   Resources Prosecco and Rubies Website Follow Prosecco and Rubies on Facebook and Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

When you’re trying to make your jewellery business more eco-friendly, sometimes the changes that feel smallest can make a major difference. In this episode, Laura Jayne explains how she’s made her jewellery business, Small Dog Silver, more sustainable with 10 practical steps. If you’re interested in reducing your carbon footprint or minimizing waste, implementing one or more of these tips is a great way to get started!    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with Laura Jayne about building an eco-friendly business (0:50) How did you become a jeweller? (2:16) What advice do you have for jewellers who want to become more eco-friendly? (6:27) 1. Minimize plastic in your packaging (7:26) 2. Look for reusable packaging options (9:53) 3. Reduce your carbon footprint with online orders (15:51) 4. Use FSC certified cardboard (18:50) 5. Swap harsh chemicals for hard boiled eggs when doing patinas (21:03) 6. Pickle your silver with salt and vinegar or citric acid (23:30) 7. Dispose of chemicals responsibly (26:47) 8. Recycle your silver scraps (30:22)  9. Register as a fair trade goldsmith (33:29) 10. Bundle supply orders together (37:06) How to connect with Laura (40:20)   Resources Small Dog Silver Website Follow Small Dog Silver on Facebook and Instagram Fair Trade Goldsmith Registration   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Ruth Hollick started her jewellery business out of a desire to build something for herself in the midst of being a busy working Mum. But for a long time, she didn’t see herself as a real jeweller. In this episode, Ruth shares her story of creating Mayflower Bespoke Jewellery, moving forward in the midst of self-doubt, and not letting other people’s opinions hold her back. This episode is full of inspiration, no matter what stage you’re at in your jewellery making journey!    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk with Ruth Hollick about her experience with becoming a jeweller (0:50) Why did you start making jewellery? (2:25)  When did you start to see yourself as a jeweller? (5:28) How did you develop your unique style? (9:34) What helps you care less about what people think of you? (16:40) How did you come up with your brand? (21:47) What keeps you moving forward even when you don’t feel confident? (24:00) Why is customer care so important? (29:52) How to connect with Ruth (33:32)   Resources Follow Mayflower Bespoke Jewellery on Instagram and Facebook Mayflower Bespoke Jewellery Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Have you ever thought about making your jewellery business more sustainable? In this episode, Leila from Lilac Tree shares five areas she’s focused on in order to make her jewellery business vegan and work toward a net zero environmental impact. Whether you’re interested in eliminating animal products from your process or just want to reduce your environmental impacts, this episode is full of simple, practical steps to help you get started.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll discuss becoming a vegan jeweller with Leila from Lilac Tree (0:50) When did you start making jewellery? (1:56) What inspired you to make your jewellery vegan? (3:50)  We’ll discuss 5 ways to be a vegan jeweller (7:31) 1. Materials: Things like pearl and coral are not vegan (8:39)  2. Tools: Look for alternatives to rawhide mallets and leather bench skins (12:59)  3. Polishing Compounds: Rouge and tripoli contain animal fats (17:12) 4. Environmental Impacts: Think about the chemicals and products you use (21:47) 5. Packaging: Find ways to reduce your plastic use and waste (26:08) How do you become a Vegan Trader? (29:35) What does it mean to work toward net zero? (31:08) How to connect with Leila (36:20)   Resources Lilac Tree Website Lilac Tree Blog Follow Lilac Tree on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

If you’re not creating Instagram reels, you’re missing a great opportunity to reach new audiences and grow your following. In this episode, Anna Campbell breaks down the basics of Instagram reels and explains how posting 30 reels in 30 days helped her grow her business. She also shares her 10 top tips for creating engaging, fun reels for your jewellery business.   Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll discuss Instagram reels with Anna Campbell (0:50) What are Instagram reels? (2:04) Why are reels important for business owners? (4:35) Can you tell us about your 30 reels in 30 days challenge? (5:52) Anna will share 10 tips for creating great Instagram reels (9:28) 1. Think about your strategy (10:47) 2. Be engaging (15:20) 3. Create your reels in batches (18:49) 4. Use trending audios (20:20) 5. Save your drafts (22:59) 6. Check your insights (25:14) 7. Engage with your audience (27:45) 8. Reuse popular videos (31:15) 9. Share your reels on stories (34:05) 10. Have fun and be curious (35:27) What results have you seen since your reels challenge? (36:45)   Resources Follow Anna on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Do the pros of selling on Etsy outweigh the fees they charge? In this episode, Jess Van Den discusses the recent fee increase for Etsy sellers, and she explains why she still recommends the platform. Jess is the owner of Epheriell Jewellery and also helps other creative business owners as the founder of Create & Thrive, so she has so much valuable expertise to share. She discusses her best tips for setting your prices, optimizing your Etsy shop, and managing your time as a new business owner.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of selling on Etsy with Jess Van Den (0:50) Why did you start selling jewellery on Etsy? (2:18) How has Etsy changed since you started? (5:45) Who is Etsy most beneficial for? (11:20) How do you set your prices? (14:58) Why do you recommend Etsy? (21:54) What tips do you have for selling on Etsy? (25:14) How do you balance making with admin tasks? (29:03) How to connect with Jess (38:38)   Resources Pricing Your Jewellery For Profit Webinar Follow Jess, Epheriell Jewellery, and Create and Thrive on Instagram Subscribe to Jess’ YouTube Channel Create and Thrive Website Shop Epheriell on Etsy Jess’ Website Jess Van Den is running a free 2-week challenge for Etsy sellers - the Etsy Shop Spring Clean Challenge - on YouTube this March, and it starts today (21st March 2022)! You can find out more and take part here: https://youtu.be/iw1asr7SGJ4 Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Are you ready to start selling your jewellery in shops and galleries? This is the episode for you! Jessica Rose shares the 10 basic steps for preparing to sell in a shop, building relationships with buyers and shop owners, and navigating contracts and payment. She also offers some practical advice and personal stories about small steps she has taken that have helped her sell her jewellery more effectively.    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll talk about how to start selling jewellery in shops and galleries (0:50) 1. Create a cohesive collection (1:27) 2. Get your jewellery photographed (4:22) 3. Price your collection for wholesale and resale (6:20) 4. Create a line sheet (10:30) 5. Start building your online presence (12:00) 6. Research and find 5-10 shops you’d like to work with (14:10) 7. Create your basic contracts (16:17) 8. Approach the shops, and take your jewellery with you! (22:48) 9. Listen to the shops’ feedback (28:25) 10. Treat the shop as a customer (30:15)   Resources Pricing Your Jewellery For Profit Webinar Join the Jewellers Academy Facebook Group   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and it offers a great opportunity for jewellery makers to market their businesses and build deeper connections with their customers. In this episode, we talk through five simple strategies you can use to promote your jewellery for Mother’s Day. Even if you don’t have time to put these in motion for 2022, it’s never too early to start planning for future promotions, and most of this content can be reused from year to year!    Episode Description: In this episode, we’ll be talking about strategies for promoting your jewellery for Mother’s Day (0:51) 1. Create a Mother’s Day gift guide (1:35) Don’t be afraid to recycle this content for next year (4:30) 2. Share your gift guide in an email newsletter (5:48)  3. Run a giveaway (7:01) Be sensitive to the fact that people have different feelings around this holiday (7:57) 4. Create a Mother’s Day banner on your website or online shop (10:34) 5. Do something collaborative with other small businesses (12:23) Tag us in your social media posts so we can share them! (17:23)   Resources Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Nisha Doughlin is on a mission to empower other women with her jewellery making, as the owner of Metah Designs and a teacher who’s committed to helping other girls and women in Trinidad find new opportunities through jewellery making. In this episode, Nisha shares her story of building a jewellery business and she explains her process of transitioning into working with silver.    Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking with Nisha Doughlin, owner of Metah Designs and a JewelFund winner (0:51) How did you become a jeweller? (2:29) What was it like to transition into working with silver? (5:49)  When did you start building jewellery making into a business? (16:10) Why did you start teaching? (18:40) How are you empowering women with your jewellery? (21:29) What’s the next step for your business journey? (27:45) How to connect with Nisha (30:41)   Resources Jewellery Business Bootcamp Learn more about JewelFund Follow Nisha on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Zoë Levy has over 20 years of jewellery making experience, but it wasn’t until she joined the Jewellery Business Bootcamp in 2018 that she decided to turn her hobby into a career. In this episode, Zoë shares her story of becoming a full-time jewellery maker while also raising her kids and learning to run a business. Zoë also talks through her design process and explains how her style has evolved over the years.    Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking with Zoë Leavy, one of our Jewellers Academy mentors (0:51) When did you start jewellery making? (2:08) How has your style changed over the years? (5:06) Why did you decide to turn jewellery making into a business? (6:47) How do you juggle childcare and running a business? (10:34) What are your business goals for the future? (15:41) How do you manage stress? (20:25) What does your design process look like? (22:05) How to connect with Zoe (27:23)   Resources Jewellery Business Bootcamp Honey Bee Design Website Follow Zoë on Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Just when Raissa de Guzman decided to turn her lifelong love of jewellery into a business, the pandemic started. In this episode, Raissa shares her story of building a business over the past two years. She also talks about her experience with the Jewellery Business Bootcamp, and she gives advice to other jewellers who are looking for ways to improve their content marketing.    Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking with Raissa de Guzman about the jewellery business bootcamp and her journey as a business owner (0:51) How did you come to be a jeweller? (2:06) Why did you join the bootcamp? (6:27) How did you choose what to focus on during bootcamp? (11:50) Why did you decide to add gift cards to your site? (17:03) What does your content creation process look like? (19:20) How has investing in your business paid off? (25:59) How have you gotten comfortable with sharing on social media? (30:15) Who can benefit from joining the bootcamp? (36:24) How to connect with Raissa (40:25)   Resources The Jewellery Business Bootcamp Abloro Jewellery Website Follow Raissa on Instagram and Pinterest   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

How do you know when it’s time to turn your jewellery business into a full-time job? In this episode, Helen O’Connor shares the six-point plan she used to build the confidence and skills she needed to start making jewellery full time. She also talks about the power of affirmations and explains how she discovered her unique jewellery style and specialty. Wherever you are in your jewellery business journey, this episode has great insight and inspiration!    Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking with Helen O’Connor about her experience of making her jewellery business a full-time job (0:51) How did you get started with jewellery making 20 years ago? (2:25) What did it feel like to sell your first piece? (6:05) Which techniques do you use in your jewellery? (8:20) When did you realize you had a unique style and speciality? (13:49) What inspired you to switch to full-time jewellery making? (17:10) Can you tell us about the six-point plan you made? (19:40) 1. Write down your fears (21:00) 2. Use affirmations and meditations (21:52) 3. Make a plan (25:45) 4. Prepare to make the transition (28:31) 5. Network (32:10)   6. Invest in yourself (38:04) How to connect with Helen (41:33)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery Helen’s Website Follow Helen on Instagram and Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

We always share that our diploma programme is open to everyone,, but what is it actually like to join as a total beginner? In this episode, Tanya Pepper shares her experience of signing up for our online diploma programme and learning enough to launch her own jewellery business, Estelle Jewellery Designs. She opens up about the challenges she faced and talks about the incredible community she was able to build with her mentors and fellow students. If you’re considering enroling in one of our programmes, this episode is full of useful information!     Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking with Tanya Pepper, one of our diploma graduates (0:51) How did you get interested in jewellery making? (2:10) What inspired you to sign up for the diploma programme? (4:04) What was the biggest challenge you faced in the process? (11:00) How did you experience community even though the diploma is online? (16:44) What was your favorite piece you made? (18:48) How is your business going so far? (25:11)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery Follow Tanya on Instagram and Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!  

What goals have you set for yourself in 2022? Whether you’re looking to grow your business or launch a new one, this episode can help! Jessica Rose shares her top tips for jewellery makers and breaks down some of the keys to success for small business owners looking to market their businesses, build connections with customers, manage their inventory, and more.    Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking about tips for having a successful jewellery business in 2022 (0:51) 1. Have clarity about the range of what you’re selling and who it is for (4:22) 2. Build a community around your business and brand (6:58) 3. Pick one key social media channel to focus on (9:15) 4. Show up consistently and as yourself (10:46) 5. Take care of yourself and take regular breaks (12:57) 6. Keep your content short and sweet (15:00) 7. Tell stories (16:22) 8. Structure your marketing with campaigns (18:39) 9. Email marketing is still important (20:41) 10. Excellent customer service goes a long way (22:04) 11. Social proof is now essential (24:00) 12. Photography is still one of our best marketing tools (26:04) 13. Plan your marketing with emotional intelligence and empathy(27:23) 14. Embrace the voice message and video chat features on social media (31:06) 15. Network with fellow jewellers and small business owners (32:30) 16. Stay open to using the technology your customers are using (34:47) 17. Don’t forget about your personal brand (36:50) 18. Video is non-negotiable (39:05) 19. Stay on top of your inventory (40:36) 20. Make your mental health a priority this year (42:43)     Resources Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Join for the Jewellery Business Bootcamp 2022 How to Start a Jewellery Business 2022 and How to Grow a Jewellery Business in 2022 Masterclasses   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

So you’ve decided you want to pursue a career in jewellery: Now what? In this episode, Jewlellers Academy Mentor Hayley Kruger shares her best advice for people who are interested in jewellery making. She also breaks down the differences between a jewellery making degree and a diploma programme and shares some practical pros and cons to help you choose between the two paths.    Episode Recap: In this episode we’re talking with Hayley Kruger, a mentor for our diploma programme (0:51) How did you come to be a jeweller? (2:13) What do people need to know when coming into the jewellery industry? (4:33) What are the pros and cons of getting a degree in jewellery making? (6:17) How do the diploma programs compare to a degree? (9:09) If you were starting your career today, how would you approach it? (15:04) How important is it to have a degree or certificate? (18:42) What advice would you give to someone deciding between a diploma or a degree? (25:03)   Resources Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery Hayley Kruger Jewellery Follow Hayley on Instagram and Facebook  Watch the first episode of “The Jewellers Retreat”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

When Tori Foster was looking to challenge herself and take her jewellery skills to the next level, she decided to enroll in the online Diploma in Fine Jewellery. In this episode, Tori discusses her experience with the programme, and she explains how investing in her skills has helped her as a business owner. She also shares some practical time management tips and advice for anyone who’s considering enrolling in one of our diploma programmes.    Episode Description: In this episode we’re talking with Tori Foster, a fine jewellery diploma student (0:51) How did you get involved with jewellery making? (2:23) What made you decide you were ready for the fine jewellery diploma program? (6:09) How will this course impact your business? (8:38) What has it been like to do the diploma programme online? (12:09) Which project has been your favorite, and which ones are you looking forward to? (17:39) How do you manage your time? (21:22) The value of investing in your skills and your business (28:18)   Resources Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery Tori Foster Jewellery Follow Tori on Instagram and Facebook  Watch the first episode of “The Jewellers Retreat”     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!  

Are you hoping to take your jewellery making skills to the next level in 2022? The Jewellers Academy diploma programs can help you get there! In today’s episode, Jessica Rose answers some frequently asked questions about the silver jewellery and fine jewellery online diploma courses, and she offers encouragement to anyone who wants to invest in themsef and their business but is scared to take the leap.    Episode Description: In this episode we’ll take time to look ahead and set goals for the new year (2:21) Are the Jewellers Academy diploma programs a good next step for you? (4:53) What skills do I need for each diploma program? (7:11) Where can I get the tools and materials I’ll need? (11:33) How is mentorship built into the course? (15:19) What topics are covered in the silver jewellery curriculum? (21:30) What topics are covered in the fine jewellery curriculum? (26:57) How does the marking work? (33:52) Who are these diplomas for? (35:09)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery Try Out Our Free Course Offerings  Watch the first episode of “The Jewellers Retreat”   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!  

In today’s episode, we’re talking with the three stars of our new TV show, “The Jewellers Retreat!” Sally, Marketa, and Jasmine tell their stories of falling in love with jewellery making, and they share insider information about what it’s like to complete a jewellery making challenge and film a TV show. They also discuss their unique processes for designing new pieces.    Episode Description: This week we’re talking with the jewellers featured on “The Jewellers Retreat” (0:54) Meet Sally Costen, The Clerkenwell Jeweller (2:45) Meet Marketa Garne of Booblinka Jewellery (3:33) Meet Jasmine Butler of Jas Jewellery (4:51) Whether you want to be a full-time jeweller or keep jewellery making as a side business, the Jewellers Academy has something for you (6:43) What was the filming experience like? (12:15) What was your favorite piece you made on the show? (18:23) How do you deal with making mistakes in jewellery making? (20:48) What was it like to work with the mentors? (24:44) Can you talk through the design process you went through before the show? (30:04) Why should someone watch the show? (40:05) Do you recommend the diploma programs to other jewellers? (42:00)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Watch the first episode of “The Jewellers Retreat” The Clerkenwell Jeweller (Sally Costen) Jas Jewellery (Jasmine Butler) Booblinka Jewellery (Marketa Garne)     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

The secret is out; we’ve made a TV show! In today’s episode, fellow producer of the show Anna Campbell and I break down everything you need to know about “The Jewellers Retreat,” which premieres live on YouTube this Wednesday at 8 p.m. GMT. We also share some fun behind-the-scenes insight into the making of the show, so you won’t want to miss this episode!    Episode Description: Our new show, “The Jewellers Retreat” premieres on Wednesday (0:50) Three Jewellers Academy Diploma students were invited to my house to complete three projects in three days (2:12) Each day I invited a mentor along to help them with their technique (4:28) The show is full of tips and behind-the-scenes insight into the jewellery making process (6:30) Each jeweller comes from a different background and walk of life, but they come together in a beautiful way (9:18) Watch live each week to join the live chat (11:53)     Resources Watch the trailer for “The Jewellers Retreat” The Jewellers Retreat - sign up now to be notified when the ep goes live Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Online Diploma in Fine Jewellery   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Most business owners have too much on their plates, so it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. But how can we keep those feelings from hurting our business? In this episode, The Design Trust Director Patricia Van Den Akker shares her top strategies for feeling less overwhelmed. She also offers some great advice for business owners looking to plan better and set effective goals.    Episode Description: Why did you get involved with The Design Trust? (2:12) How do we become less overwhelmed? (3:43) Take time every day to relax, even if it’s just a moment (7:12) Organize your to-do list and allocate your tasks to specific days (10:19) Set 90-day goals for bigger projects (18:10) Make a plan, but be prepared to pivot (23:33) Set goals around things you can control (30:07) How is your planner helping business owners create the lives they want? (33:23) How to connect with The Design Trust (42:25)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery The Design Trust The Design Trust Planner Follow the Design Trust on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Karen Smith struggled with anxiety her whole life, but she didn’t realize she could do something to manage it until she started therapy during art school. Now, Karen is the owner of Metallium Jewellery, and she teaches jewellery making classes. In this episode, Karen opens up about the ways anxiety and perfectionism have impacted her career, and she shares some of the best strategies she’s found for coping with her anxiety and equipping her students to do the same.    Episode Description: If you experience anxiety and perfectionism in your business, you’re not alone! (1:23) How did you become a jeweller? (2:28) When did you start experiencing anxiety? (7:08) How did anxiety impact your business and career? (10:18) What coping strategies have you learned to help you manage your anxiety? (12:39) When did you discover your passion for teaching? (20:23) Do you take time to look back and feel proud of how far you’ve come? (25:44) What do you say to your students when they’re struggling with negative self-talk? (27:36) What next steps are you planning for your career? (29:37) Do you have advice for those who are struggling with anxiety and perfectionism? (31:50) How to connect with Karen (32:48)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Metallium Jewellery Metallium Jewellery Instagram Metallium Jewellery Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Marketing your products on social media can play a key role in growing your business, especially around the holidays. But how do you come up with ideas for content to post each day? If you’re struggling to create social media content for your business, you’re in the right place! In today’s episode, we’ll discuss a complete Instagram sales plan for the month of December, including post ideas for each day leading up to Christmas.    Episode Recap:  Post ideas for each day from December 1 through 25 (2:33) Dec. 1: Share your final postage dates (4:28) Dec. 2: Show your work (5:39) Dec. 3: Create a video that showcases your jewellery (6:14) Dec. 4: Encourage people to support small businesses (6:45) Dec. 5: Introduce yourself with a “Meet the Maker” post (7:49) Dec. 6: Show your work and share why someone should buy it (8:56) Dec. 7: Share a testimonial (10:31) Dec. 8: Create a carousel with three of your bestsellers (11:15) Dec. 9: Go live to connect with customers (12:45) Dec. 10: Post an action photo and explain why you love your work (14:28) Dec. 11: Offer a flash special, such as free postage (15:32) Dec. 12: Share a carousel with photos of your work (16:13) Dec. 13: Create a reel or video of you at work (16:27) Dec. 14: Highlight five small businesses you love and tag them (16:47) Dec. 15: Let people know if you offer gift vouchers (17:18)  Dec. 16: Post a close-up of a hero piece or showstopper in your collection (17:57) Dec. 17: Talk about the best gift you’ve ever received and why (19:07) Dec. 18: Remind people that it’s their last chance to order before Christmas (19:57) Dec. 19: Make a reel that shows you packing up your final Christmas orders (21:59) Dec. 20: Express gratitude for your followers and customers (22:42) Dec. 21: Give a final push if orders are still open (24:14) Dec. 22: Share a reminder about gift vouchers as a great last-minute option (24:33) Dec. 23: Post something Christmas-y (24:47) Dec. 24: Offer a final chance to purchase gift vouchers, and share an encouraging message to your followers (25:34) Dec. 25: Wish your followers a Merry Christmas (27:00) Take some time to rest and relax after Christmas if possible (28:27) Download your FREE planner > Resources: Free Instagram for Jewellers Online Course Tips and Hashtags for Small Business Saturday Download - Instagram Sales Plan for Christmas   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

76: Remodelling Jewellery and Heirloom Re-designs With Chloe Michell   Many jewellers see remodelling as a daunting task, but for Chloe Michell, it’s an opportunity to create something especially meaningful for her customers. With Chloe Michell Jewellery, she works one on one with customers to create beautiful bespoke commissions and heirloom redesigns. In this episode, Chloe shares her story of creating Chloe Michell Jewellery and learning to create beautiful heirloom redesigns. She also describes her approach to remodelling and offers some helpful advice to other business owners.   Episode Description When did you get interested in jewellery making? (2:14) How has having your own workshop changed the way you see yourself and your business? (3:15) What does your remodelling process look like? (5:39) Why do you enjoy remodelling? (11:14) The importance of learning to say no (13:25) What is your approach when working with stones? (16:12) How do you screen new customers? (20:21) Where do you want your business to go in the future? (23:45) Giving back through mentorship (25:53) How to connect with Chloe (28:22)   Resources Online Diploma in Silver Jewellery Chloe Michell Jewellery Chloe Michell Instagram Chloe Michell Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Whether you’re a new jewellery maker or want to take your skills to the next level, buying a great kiln is one of the best investments you can make. Petra Cameron of Metal Clay Ltd. knows this from experience; she started making jewellery in her guest bedroom several years ago and has since grown Metal Clay into a successful supply company. In this episode, Petra joins us to discuss everything you need to know when purchasing a kiln, along with some important safety tips.    EPISODE RECAP Why did you start Metal Clay? (1:57) What should people look for when buying their first kilns? (5:03) Common uses of a kiln for jewellery makers (7:27) Differences between the Prometheus and Paragon kilns (10:10) What is ramp speed? (14:35) Advantages of purchasing a programmable kiln (17:40) How to safely store your kiln (20:23) Do you need a surge protector? (25:40) What other types of kilns are available? (30:28) Do you need accessories to go with your kiln? (33:58) How to get in touch with Petra and Metal Clay (37:33) How much does it cost to run a kiln? (38:41)   Resources Beginners and Intermediate Enameling for Jewellers Metal Clay Ltd. Metal Clay Ltd. Facebook Metal Clay Ltd. YouTube   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

If you’ve ever wanted to add beautiful colour to your jewellery designs with enamel, Michelle Leaver of Michelle Leaver Jewellery can show you a thing or two. A gifted enameler for over 30 years, thriving business owner, and  teacher at the London Jewellery School and Jewellers Academy ,she shares with us her top 10 tips (and more) for getting started with enameling.    EPISODE RECAP How did you get started with jewellery making and enameling? (2:19) What is enameling? (4:33) How did you get started enameling at home? (7:40) Tip #1: Practice on copper (9:10)  Tip #2: Test colors first (11:20)  Tip #3: You don’t need a big kiln, but you do need a kiln shelf (14:11)  Tip #4: Enamels are very fussy (17:37)  Tip #5: When you need to counter enamel (19:35)  Tip #6: If your enamel cracks, troubleshoot (21:45) Tip #7: What to do if your enamel is cloudy (24:11) Tip #8: Keep a color diary (25:57)  Don’t judge a piece by it’s first layer (29:03)  Tip #9: Stay focused when firing (30:22)  Tip #10: How to get rid of specks in your piece (32:37)      RESOURCES Beginners and Intermediate Enameling for Jewellers Michelle Leaver Jewellery Michelle Leaver Jewellery’s Instagram Michelle Leaver Jewellery’s’ Etsy Shop Michelle Leaver Jewellery’s’ Folksy Shop   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

It takes a certain kind of gumption to start a business in the middle of a pandemic, and Nadia Thomas of Chamarel Designs has it. Nadia first turned to jewellery making as a form of creative therapy in 2014. After enrolling in the London Jewellery School, she gradually turned her hobby into something more profitable before taking the leap, leaving her job, and launching her very own business in the thick of the pandemic. In this episode, we talk about how the challenges and limitations of the pandemic inspired her to find a way to make things work and what kept her inspired along the way.      EPISODE RECAP What prompted you to start your own jewellery business? (2:28) How did you make the leap from working 9 to 5 starting your business? (7:55) How did the pandemic affect the launch of your jewellery business? (11:49) “This book gave me the boost of positivity I needed to gain some momentum” (14:40) Why you should invite your family and friends on your business journey (16:25) Were you scared when you left your job? (17:42) What challenges did the pandemic bring to your business? (20:15) What’s next for your business? (25:50) Using technology to help people experience your jewellery (27:12) What inspired you to become a mentor for other jewellers? (30:45)     RESOURCES Chamarel Designs’ Website Chamarel Designs’ Instagram Chamarel Designs’ Twitter  London Jewellery School Of Gold and Dust by Samantha Wills   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Kim Thomson is a silversmith, talented jewellery tutor, and the owner of Make It With Kim. An artist from a young age, Kim earned a silversmith degree at university—where she first discovered her diagnosis of dyslexia and Irlen Syndrome. When she learned that she processed the world a little differently than others, it changed everything. In this episode Kim opens up about her experience discovering and living with her processing differences and shares how you can use your unique way of processing to benefit yourself.   EPISODE RECAP How did you become a jeweller? (2:24) Tell us about your tutorial collaboration with Kernowcraft (4:20) Tell us about your diagnoses (7:59) Processing disorders are often coupled with other disorders (12:00) How have your diagnoses affected you and your jewellery business? (13:59) Procrastination gets a bad rap! (16:15) What are some practical things that help with your processing differences? (18:40) How does this affect the way you teach or interact with your clients? (22:17) How did you discover that you had ADHD? (25:30) Knowing how your brain works can help you put helpful boundaries in place (30:45) What would you say to jewellers who may have processing difficulties? (31:43) It’s okay for your routines and patterns to change as you grow (34:24) RESOURCES Make It With Kim 12 Months of Metal Challenge Kim Thomson’s Instagram Kim Thomson’s Facebook Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

High quality photos are a must-have when it comes to building a strong brand presence. But for some, the idea of getting in front of the camera can make you want to run and hide. We’re joined by Vicki Knights, a leading family and branding photographer based in Surrey, to learn about why you need great photos of yourself and your products—and how to get them!   EPISODE RECAP How Vicki became a brand photographer (2:04) Why lifestyle photography is great for growing your brand (3:54) What is a brand shoot and how can you make sure it’s successful? (6:11) Tips for communicating your style to your photographer (10:48) Is a brand shoot really worth the investment? (14:15) Why you should should share pictures of yourself online (18:48)  How to overcome your fear of being photographed (24:20) What you should (and shouldn’t) wear to your photo shoot (29:17) Kind of props to you use in a photo shoot (34:20)   RESOURCES Vicki Knights’ Instagram Vicki Knights’ Website Shoot Edit Chat Repeat Podcast Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Tanya Butler is the founder of Butler and Grace. They make medical and ID bracelets - bracelets that could actually save your life! They also make personalized jewellery. Tanya was a winner of the Jewel Fund last year. We are so glad she’s joining us today.   EPISODE RECAP   Can you share what a medical bracelet is? (1:57) How do we find out about all the symbols on medical bracelets? (4:00) Tell us about you and how you got involved in jewellery (7:38) There are unique challenges with how you make the jewellery. Can you share a little about that? (11:08) How did you learn about engraving? (13:44) How fast is your turnaround from order to shipping? (15:56) Your jewellery is worn all the time. Does that impact the materials and design? (19:08) It sounds like you really look after your customers. Do you feel like having a situation in your family has helped you understand your customers? (20:57) In terms of the business, how big is your business? (24:56) What’re your hopes for the future of the business? (28:20) You were a winner of the Jewel Fund. What was that process like for you? (29:44) Anything else you’d like to share? (34:46)   RESOURCES Butler and Grace website Butler and Grace Facebook Butler and Grace Instagram       Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Success isn’t built in a day! In this episode we’re joined by serial crafter Lisa Johnson to remind us that building a successful jewellery business is possible—and it happens one step at a time. Lisa is the founder of the nature-inspired jewellery design business Country Designs by Lisa and specializes in metal clay work (aka, “adult play-doh”). She is a lifetime member of Jewellers Academy and shares with us just how she’s made the membership work for her needs, lifestyle, and business goals.      *Membership for Jewellers Academy closes October 4. Get training, resources, and support to make jewellery and run a handmade business. Join the academy today!     EPISODE RECAP What led you to start your jewellery business? (2:50) How did you get involved in working with metal clay? (5:23) How has living in Hampshire influenced your work? (9:50 ) This course changed everything (12:00)  When and why did you become a member? (13:13) How the Jewellery Academy community helped during the pandemic (18:54) What happened after you released your website? (22:34) What are you working on improving right now? (22:51) Why Jewellers Academy bootcamp is a must-do (24:45) You build a thriving business one step at a time (26:40) What advice would you give to someone just starting a jewellery business? (30:39) What’s next for your business? (33:42)     RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Membership The Jewellery Business Bootcamp Country Designs by Lisa’s Website Country Designs by Lisa’s Facebook Country Designs by Lisa’s Instagram Country Designs by Lisa’s Twitter   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

So many of us are timid about pricing, concerned about upsetting potential customers, and simply aren’t charging enough to make a profit. If this sounds like you, it doesn’t have to be this way. In this episode we unpack what may be causing you to undercharge along with simple exercises that can help you build confidence and charge what you’re worth!   *Membership for Jewellers Academy is open for a limited time! Apply between September 13–October 4.   EPISODE RECAP Undercharging harms your business in the long run (4:21) Pricing communicates a lot about you and your business (7:11)  So why do so many of us undercharge? (9:19) How do you overcome the fear of being challenged over your pricing? (11:29) Don’t lower your prices—communicate your value (12:45) Focus on selling in a way that feels authentic to you (14:20) When we undercharge we undervalue our customer (16:04) Look for ways you may be diminishing the value of what you offer (19:07 ) Don’t be timid about sharing your prices (23:03) Hot take: It’s okay to lose customers over pricing (25:32) Build confidence by making pieces that you believe in (26:15) Is it your product or your confidence that keeps you from charging more? (30:06) What would your business look like if you doubled the price of everything? (34:09) Only you can make the choice to charge what you’re worth (36:53) RESOURCES Pricing Your Jewellery for Profit Webinar (Free) How to Increase Your Prices in Your Jewellery Business Podcast 21 Days of Affirmation for Growth Course (Free) Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

You don’t have to “do it all” to launch a successful business—and Dee Young of NaturebyDay is living proof. A veteran member of Jewellers Academy, Dee has successfully grown her nature-inspired jewellery business from the ground up while finding a work-life balance that fits her lifestyle. In this episode, we chat about how she’s made over 650 sales through Etsy alone, the importance of having a community, and how she uses the Jewellers Academy membership to her advantage.   *Membership for Jewellers Academy is open for a limited time! Apply between September 13–October 4.     EPISODE RECAP   How did you get started making jewellery? (2:26) What kind of jewellery making do you do? (5:30) How has your business grown? (6:26) How did you get started with Etsy? (7:38) What has Jewellers Academy done for your business? (11:24) How did you learn how to market your business? (14:41) Overcoming fear of social media marketing (16:39) What has been your favorite course in the membership? (19:41) How do you make the membership work for your lifestyle? (24:41) Why community can make such a difference in your business (26:22) What would say to someone thinking about joining? (32:37) What are you most excited about for your business going forward? (35:22)     RESOURCES   Jewellers Academy Membership 20 Days to Launch Your Jewellery Business Course The Jewellery Business Bootcamp NaturebyDay’s Etsy Shop NaturebyDay’s Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Does success in your jewellery business feel like a pipedream? Running a profitable business takes hard work, but it’s simpler than you might think! In this episode, Anna C Campbell, community manager at Jewellers Academy and a successful jeweller, teacher and psychology lecturer, walks us through the five essential ingredients to a thriving jewellery business.   *Membership for Jewellers Academy is open! Apply between September 13–October 4.   EPISODE RECAP Membership for Jewellers Academy is open! (1:11) #1: Product — Why you need to keep your making skills fresh (3:51) #2: Connection — Marketing your work and building connections with customers (3:51) What to do if “business skills” don’t come naturally to you (10:36) Small business owners are content creators (13:04) #3 Community — How to find a business community when working on your own (14:41) How to create focus in your business (20:41) Don’t leave your success to chance (22:17) Why you need a business plan (25:33) #5: Profit — Pricing and charging for your jewellery items (27:33) How to find confidence in pricing your items (29:45)   About Anna C Campbell Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram   RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Membership Instagram Reels for Jewellers Challenge Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

Barbara Yarde is a contemporary fine jeweller. She is a teacher with us a Jewellers Academy and is one of the mentors for the Diploma program. She makes incredible jewellery and today we’re talking with her about how to build a jewellery collection. It can be a minefield, but join us as Barbara shares her experience!      EPISODE RECAP   Tell us about how you got started with jewellery making (1:57) Did you start your business right away or work for other jewellers? (3:17)  What is the first thing to do to start a collection? (7:25) So you have an idea or concepts, what would you do next? (9:36) Do you use rendering in your designs? (10:52) What’s the next step after the drawing/rendering? (14:08) So what happens after the prototype? (16:52) How many pieces would you recommend in a collection? (17:52) How did you learn to take an idea or concept and develop it? (20:52) In your collections do you have hero pieces that are statement pieces? Do you think about pricing? (22:34) Do you create your pieces one-by-one or in stages? (26:08) What do you do if you’re not feeling inspired? (28:24) Anything else to share about building a collection? (31:12)   RESOURCES Barbara Yarde’s Website Barbara Yarde’s Instagram  Jewellery Design and Drawing Rendering Course     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

I’m joined today by the wonderful Michelle Lierre - founder of Lierreworks. Michelle does a lot of filigree and is also a mom to three little people. We’re talking today about her journey and the work that she does - join us as we jump in!   EPISODE RECAP   What changes have you had to make in your jewellery business since COVID? (2:50) When did you start jewellery making and what has your journey been? (6:12) Why filigree? (11:34) Within filigree there are so many different styles - can you recognize the different styles? (15:19) Can you describe what filigree is for anyone who may not know? (16:25) Have you done any training or have you been self taught? (19:28) Let’s talk about your Instagram (22:33) Can you share with us what you do in your Instagram reels? (23:35) Is there a risk that some of filigree could get lost or is it being passed on? (25:54) Tell us about your inspiration for a piece (29:41) Do you find that people don’t know the work is hand made as it’s so intricate? (32:44) What things do you want to achieve next in your business? (35:34) Where can people find you? (39:31) Is there anything else you want to share? (40:29)   RESOURCES Lierreworks Website Lierreworks Instagram Lierreworks Facebook Lierreworks Pinterest     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

If you’ve ever struggled with content on Instagram or any of your social media channels, you are not alone. Social media can be fun but it also can feel overwhelming. This episode is about giving us a plan for our social media content to help us market our products well.    EPISODE RECAP   It’s okay to take some days off social media (2:42) Think of content in ‘buckets’ or ‘zones’ (4:06) Have a brainstorming session for your social media (4:32) The first zone is “behind the scenes” (6:41) The next bucket is value sharing (8:46) The next zone is sales - what can they buy from you and where can they buy it? (11:27) This next one is “customer tips” (13:46) The final one is to post about work in progress (16:40) Schedule time to brainstorm 30 ideas for your social media (18:43)   RESOURCES Instagram for Jewellers Course Pinterest for Jewellers Course  Online Marketing for Jewellers Course     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This is something most of us can relate to - the idea of going LIVE on your socials can bring a feeling of terror. And it doesn’t need to. Let’s talk about how to make it a nice experience for you and for your customers because going LIVE is really important!    EPISODE RECAP   Going live on your socials is really important (1:36) 1. Have a strong beginning, a middle and an end (3:19) 2. Know what you what to share (7:38) 3. Go live with a friend or fellow maker (8:54) 4. Overcoming insecurities (11:12) 5. Lighting (13:28) 6. Let people know in advance that you’ll be going live (15:55) 7. Ask questions (18:03) 8. Aim for connection over sales (19:57) 9. Be yourself (22:03) 10. Share the video in your profile (23:40) Do this regularly - practice makes perfect! (24:43)     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Sally How is a jeweller and the founder of How Fine Designs. She is also a Pinterest expert and you may remember her from episode 11 of the podcast. Sally is joining us again this week on the podcast to share some updates on using Pinterest and is generous in sharing her knowledge of how to use it to grow our businesses.   EPISODE RECAP   Would you say Pinterest is your favorite platform? (2:35) What is the biggest change on Pinterest since last year? (3:07) What do idea pins look like? (4:13) Do you have any idea pins that have worked well? (6:46) Would you say idea pins are similar to reels on Instagram? (7:24) How often should we post an idea pin? (9:02) Are idea pins getting more interest than a regular pin? (9:55) How would you recommend using video on Pinterest? (12:03) Can you repurpose videos from other platforms? (15:44) Any guidance on the dimensions of the videos? (17:03) What is Pinterest Shopping and how does it work? (19:00) If someone goes through the Pinterest shop to buy something, does it go to your website? (20:58) Anything else we should know about Pinterest Shopping? (22:34) What can we learn about Pinterest ads? (24:56) Let’s talk about a few of the Pinterest basics (28:13)   RESOURCES Sally How on Episode 11 Pinterest For Jewellers Course How Fine Designs Pinterest How Fine Designs Website  How Fine Designs Instagram     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Instagram is one of my favourite social media platforms for jewellers to get noticed and make sales. There is so much you can do on Instagram so in this episode I am focussing on Instagram stories and 10 story ideas. Grab a pen and paper and get thinking about how these ideas will work for you.   EPISODE RECAP 1. Product spotlight (3:20) 2. Share what’s on your bench (5:24) 3. “This or That” (6:26) 4. Q&A (8:41) 5. “A day in the life” (11:49) 6. A new post share (12:56) 7. “How to wear it” (14:20) 8. Share inspiration from other accounts (17:27) 9. Use a location or place and tag them in it (20:58) 10. A throwback post (23:38) And a bonus one - go on your stories and do a simple face-to-camera update (24:51)   RESOURCES Instagram for Jewellers Course Instagram Stories Challenge     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook!

When you’re thinking about the growth of your business and where you want it to go it is crucial to start with the end in mind. This concept is borrowed from one of my favourite books - The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. In this weeks podcast I talk about what you need to consider when you are wanting to grow, the difference between spending and investing in your business and what you need to ask yourself before making any decisions on your next steps.   EPISODE RECAP   What is the concept of starting with the end in mind? (1:38) Ask yourself what you need to get there (2:18) Let’s talk about investment versus spending (5:51) When you’re thinking of making a big decision in your business, ask yourself these questions (10:13) Challenge yourself to be more specific about what you’ll get in return for your investment (12:20)   RESOURCES The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People JewelFund     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This week on the podcast I’m joined by the jeweller and product photographer Karen Young. This episode is all about top tips for designing packaging for your jewellery and these 5 tips will be really helpful for you to think about, whether you want to upgrade what you have or are starting from scratch.               EPISODE RECAP   Is it safe to say you’re obsessed with packaging? (1:42) 1. Make it functional and practical (3:15) 2. Think about size (6:57) Do you know which box is your most regularly used? (11:22) 3. Materials matter (13:02) 4. Make it yours (17:07) 5. Think about the unboxing experience (20:59) I know there are a few bonus tips, let's hear those! (23:53)   RESOURCES Karen Young Photography Website Karen Young Jewellery Website Karen Young Jewellery Instagram Karen Young Photography Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Jeweller Lee Appleby was a quarter-finalist on the All That Glitters show on BBC2. This week on the podcast I am sharing an interview with Lee, a jeweller who hand makes all of his jewellery. He works in silver, gold, platinum and palladium. His business motto is “make your ideas come to life”, which is a lovely way to look at jewellery.   EPISODE RECAP   Can you tell us a little about yourself? How did you become a jeweller? (1:29) A lot of your work is technical and involves a lot of metals. Was a lot of that learned on the job? (5:19) You just went for it, it sounds like you didn’t have a lot of fear did you? (6:51) You have your own jewellery business, do you run that from home? (11:26) What is next for your business? (12:25) Some jewellers don’t enjoy doing repairs (14:39) Do you have a favorite metal to work with? (15:43) Do you have any favorite gemstones? (17:18) What’s your design process like? (18:26) What were some of the most challenging aspects of the show? (21:39) What advice would you give to jewellers starting out? (26:15)   RESOURCES Lee Appleby Instagram Lee Appleby Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Today I am joined by Julie Nicaisse, a winner of JewelFund 2020. JewelFund is a grant program that I set up in 2018 and each year I award grants of £1000 to jewellers along with one to one mentoring/business coaching. It’s a way for me to support jewellers and help them get to the next level. I love this part of my job as I get to work with some incredible jewellers and I’m excited to share that JewelFund 2021 is now open for applications. I’m excited to have Julie here to share her experience of growing her jewellery business, what she spent her grant on and her advice on applying   EPISODE RECAP   Tell us about your journey to becoming a jeweller (2:25) The job that you started at running errands - how did you find that? (3:23) Tell us about your jewellery business now (4:49) What made you decide to apply for the JewelFund? (6:57) What did you want to use the money for that helped grow your business? (9:12) How have the tools changed your business? (11:58) What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying for the JewelFund this year? (13:25) You work a lot with fair trade gold - how did you decide to do that? (15:40) What’s next for your business? (17:14)   RESOURCES Julie Nicaisse Instagram Julie Nicaisse Website JewelFund   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

On the podcast this week I’m sharing the five things I wish I had known before starting my jewellery business. The real secret is that you don’t need to know anything before you start, you can just start. You will figure it out! But there are things that you learn along the journey and had I known them beforehand I would have made fewer mistakes and been more confident. I hope you can learn from these.    EPISODE RECAP   1. Start small (2:12) 2. Surround yourself with like-minded people (4:33) 3. Spend time connecting with your ideal customer (7:27) 4. Do something every day to move your business forward (11:30) 5. The only failure is to give up (14:20)   RESOURCES Jewellers Academy YouTube Launch Your Jewellery Business in 20 Days   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Fiona Humberstone joins us today, she is also know as the brand stylist. She is the authority on branding - she has books, online courses and a lot of resources for us. Join us for this conversation!    EPISODE RECAP   Tell us about your story - how did you become the brand stylist? (1:50) When you’re in business, it can feel like a waste of time to think about your brand can’t it? (6:30) Tell us about “editing to amplify” (7:44) If I have two different styles of jewellery, should I keep them under one brand or have separate brands? (13:25) Photography is such a key part of our brands as jewellers. What’re your thoughts on managing photography? (17:00) What are the most important things to spend money on for our brands? (21:26) For people who are further along in their business, do you have any tips for keeping our branding focus? (25:09) What is your motto on life? (27:50) How do you fit in family, work and home life? (29:25)   RESOURCES The Brand Stylist Website     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

On the podcast this week I am sharing about taking time off in your jewellery business. As jewellers, we are often self-employed and that means we need to be more mindful of our own time and boundaries, including taking time off to relax and recharge. Let’s talk through how to be intentional about the time we take off and make good use of it.   EPISODE RECAP   Having had experience with burnout, I know how important it is to prioritize taking time away from your business (2:09) The first thing is to make sure you take time off (2:48) Put things in place to make sure you don’t experience negative impacts of overworking, but also become more aware of yourself (4:43) The second point is to be intentional about your time off (6:08) Think about scheduling time off after a launch or intense period (9:03) When you have time off, really be off the clock (10:24) Let go of guilt around having time off (14:40) Taking a break can be one of the best things you do for your business (18:23)     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

You may know Sonny Bailey-Aird as a contestant on the All That Glitters jewellery show on the BBC. Sonny is a goldsmith who creates one of a kind pieces of fine jewellery in a rustic style. He runs his own business and we’re excited to have him join us today!   EPISODE RECAP   Can you tell us about your jewellery and how you came to be a jeweller? (1:29) You decided to give jewellery a try - are there any resources that taught you? (3:47) Did you make jewellery at home or how did you set it up? (7:27) What were some of the first pieces you sold? (8:31) You were chosen to be on All That Glitters, what was that experience like? (10:45) Did your making skills improve when you were on the show? (12:16) What was your favorite piece that you made on the show? (14:58) Did you have a piece that was most challenging for you? (15:58) Have you always had the same style or did it develop over time? (17:47) You work a lot with gemstones. Are there any stones that are your favorite to work with? (21:34) You had a little one fairly recently. How do you manage your working life now? (23:18) Do you have any role models? (27:06) What is next for your jewellery business? (29:26) What advice would you give to a jeweller who is just starting out? (32:43) Where can we find you online? (36:00)   RESOURCES Sonny Bailey-Aird Website Sonny Bailey-Aird Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

I am joined today by Catherine Erdly from the Resilient Retail Club. We’re going to be discussing how to effectively manage stock in your jewellery business. Catherine has been in the retail sector for two decades working with household names as well as independent start ups. She is also a contributor for forbes.com and has spoken at a number of trade shows. A big welcome, we look forward to this conversation!   EPISODE RECAP   Stock management is something we need to think about for our business. Where do you even begin? (3:18) What does a stock management system look like? (7:15) What come after creating the master list? (9:10) When it comes to physical product and where you keep it, how have you seen it work? (14:07) You talked about managing stock in different places, what if we have a small stock in the first place? (16:02) What about old stock? (19:00) You talked about having a goal stock number. Is the figure you use for that goal the sales price or your cost? (23:35) What is a stock take and how often do you do them? (28:14) How much stock should you have? (32:12) Are there any other areas of advice or common pitfalls you’d like to share? (36:00)   RESOURCES Resilient Retail Club Website Resilient Retail Club Instagram     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

You may know Kim Styles from Kim Styles Jewellery from the All That Glitters show in the BBC 2. We are going to get insight into Kim, her experience on the show and her jewellery. She has a strong style of floral, sculptural jewellery and this will be a fun conversation!    EPISODE RECAP   Can you share about your journey into jewellery making? (2:04) Did you get work straight out of school or what was that process? (3:15) You can see your love of jewellery in your jewellery. What inspired the sculptural, floral jewellery you do? (4:44) What kind of work do you make and sell? (6:44) What made you decide to apply for the show? (7:50) What was your favorite project from the show? (10:10) What was the most challenging project for you? (11:34) How did you manage the design process? (12:53) How was it having the cameras and crew there during your making process? (14:06) What’s it like watching the show now? (15:24) You have a lot of experience as a jeweller, what advice would you give to someone starting in the industry? (15:37) What are some of your favorite techniques in jewellery making? (16:51)   RESOURCES Kim Styles Jewellery Instagram Kim Styles Jewellery Website  Kim Styles Jewellery Etsy   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

I am joined today by Nicola Lillie from Nicola Lillie Designs. She is a contestant on All That Glitters and her jewellery business has a very distinct signature style. We are going to discuss her business, her jewellery making journey and her experience on the show.    EPISODE RECAP   Welcome to the show, Nicola. You’re joining from your studio, it’s great! (1:54) Tell us about you, your background and how you got into jewellery making (3:47) Did you start a jewellery business right away or what was your journey? (6:49) How do manage having a little one, running a business, having a job and doing the show? (9:29) Tell us about the show - what made you apply? What was the application process like? (13:18) It seemed like there was a camaraderie between you and the others on the show. Was that a nice part of the show? (17:46) What were some of your favorite pieces you made on the show? (19:22) What didn’t we see? (22:56) What was it like working with the judges? (24:44) What’s it like watching the show now? (28:22) What is next for you? (30:33)   RESOURCES Nicola Lillie Instagram Nicola Lillie Designs Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

I’m excited to be joined by Sarah Stanford to talk about outsourcing in your jewellery business - specifically using a remote bench assistant. Sarah has an incredible business and also supports jewellers by being an external bench jeweller. As our businesses grow we can’t do everything and this is a great opportunity for a growing business!   EPISODE RECAP   Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a jeweller? (1:49) Talk about outsourcing and becoming a remote bench assistant. How did that come about for you? (4:00) How did you start offering this service? (5:48) What kind of work do you do for jewellers? (7:34) What if someone thinks this sounds amazing but they don’t know how they can trust someone else with their jewellery? (10:01) How do you manage your workload? (12:16) If a jeweller is listening and wants a bench assistant, what is their first step? (13:44) What has your experience as a bench assistant been like? (15:39) Has anyone ever asked you to work on something you couldn’t or didn’t want to? (16:33) How do you fit being a bench assistant around your own business? (17:39) Do you have any tips for someone who may want to be a bench assistant? (19:11) Anything else you want to share? (21:19) How do you have the conversation about pricing with a new person? (22:27)   RESOURCES Sarah Ruth Stanford Website Sarah Ruth Stanford Instagram     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This week I’m going to be talking you through a simple and effective marketing plan for your jewellery business. This is an important topic - creating a marketing plan is a great idea and something we need to do, but I know it can feel overwhelming. Today we’re going to talk through a streamlined, focused plan that works and will get you results!   EPISODE RECAP   It’s important to have a plan and a flexible structure (3:13) Marketing = Sales (3:41) I have a simple way of focusing our marketing. Step one is to pick one social platform (5:54) The next step is to pick one web shop (13:03) The third piece is email marketing (16:50) How do we build all this into a plan? (19:20) Create a launch activity for each quarter (20:53) What are you going to do for the next quarter? (28:40)   RESOURCES Affirmations Course Jewellers Academy Website   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Our guest today is Stephen M Goldsmith - a master polisher with a popular book on the topic. He has worked with some incredible people and we’ll talk all about his experience. We will also talk about polishing techniques and hear some of the common mistakes to correct. Stephen has more than fifty years’ experience and he loves sharing it with the next generation of jewellers and polishers.    EPISODE RECAP   Thank you for joining us today! (2:03) The difference between a good piece and a professionally finished piece makes all the difference (4:50) What is the biggest mistake jewellers make when it comes to polishing and finishing? (6:10) What is your job now? (16:14) What projects that you’ve worked on throughout your career have really stood out to you? (20:10) I wanted to ask your feelings on barrel polishes (27:14) I’ve not heard of that, what is menzerna? (34:40) It seems like you love this and you’re passionate about it (39:04) What was it like working for Theo Fennell? (42:54) Have you polished the Queens’ crown? (44:10) What’s next for you? (45:21)   RESOURCES Polishing and Finishing for Jewellers and Silversmith Stephen Goldsmith Instagram Gold Polishing Guru       Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This week on the podcast I’m sharing some thoughts on advice on what to name your jewellery business. This is a question that comes up frequently and some jewellers can get stuck in indecision so here are some tips to help you   EPISODE RECAP   Whilst your name is super important, you can change it! (1:35) The most important part is to focus on your customer (2:03) Pick a name you can grow with (3:48) It should be easy to remember and easy to spell (4:34) The name should not be too long (6:02) Check that the URL is available (7:35) Check the social handles (10:20) Give yourself a deadline (11:12) Consider your brand and personality as a whole (13:18) Thoughts on using your own name (14:34)   RESOURCES Affirmations Course     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Today I’m sharing the content from a new mini-course on how to shift your mindset. It comes with a 21-day challenge to use affirmations to create positive change. I have use affirmations a lot in my work. They are proven to be effective and have certainly worked for me and I’m excited to share them with you   EPISODE RECAP   Today is a little bit different. I’m going to share the audio from this mini-course with you (3:18) If you’re not familiar with affirmations, here’s what they are (5:39) We all have affirmations in our head all the time. There are things you can do to become more aware of them (7:16) The first thing I want you to do is pick 5 statements you believe in each area of your life (8:14) Once you have your list, write 3-5 positive statements next to each neutral/negative statement (12:17) You should now have a long list of positive affirmations. Now we need to hear them every day, twice a day. Aim to listen to them 3 times a day for the next 21 days (14:20) This is how I do it (16:01) I want to add a couple affirmations that I believe everyone should have on their list (17:35)   RESOURCES Affirmations Course Do join our affirmations course for free on the link above to get your workbook and three bonus audio meditations - daily affirmations for creativity, daily affirmations for prosperity/money and daily affirmations to start your day right   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This week on the podcast I’m joined by Anna C Campbell. I don’t know about you, but I know it’s good to invest in myself - though sometimes that comes with some guilt. We want to be able to grow and let go of that negativity. Anna is our community manager at Jewellers Academy and has trained in psychology as well as jewellery making. She has a wealth of knowledge and we hope you join us to discuss this important issue.   EPISODE RECAP   What are the ways you’ve invested in yourself and did you have guilt about it? What happened when you pushed past it? (2:16) 1. To broaden your options (6:19) When you do something like this, do you share it with people? (8:43) 2. To find a new path (10:17) What would you say to someone who feels like they need permission to make a big decision? (15:41) 3. To find your tribe (17:38) 4. To boost your health and wellbeing (22:22) 5. To send a message to yourself (27:57) Bonus: unexpected reasons (39:26) Final thoughts (42:57)   About Anna C Campbell Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram   RESOURCES Anna Campbell Instagram       Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

We are joined by Karen Young, who is back on the podcast to talk about a very important topic - What do we do as jewellers now that Brexit has happened? This topic can be overwhelming but we are here today to give some guidance. New legislation can be a little scary but things always settle down and we can figure it out together.    EPISODE RECAP   What does Brexit mean for jewellers at a high level? (2:32) So this is a change for anyone in the EU or the UK (or anyone selling into the EU or UK)? (7:35) If anyone is overwhelmed is it ok to not sell to the EU for a bit? (9:29) We want to put information about this in our terms and conditions and where else? (14:30) So we’ve made the decision to sell to the EU - what do we need to do to ship our jewellery? (15:59) What do you communicate with your customers about this? (21:35) Tell us about the Statement of Origin form (23:22) Does that form need to be filled out with every order? (28:58) How do we provide evidence of the origin? (30:33) Any final tips for posting parcels to the EU countries? (32:41)   RESOURCES Brexit Guide For Jewellers Blog Post Get an EORI Number VAT Registration Form CN22 Form CN23 Statement of Origin Text Get Proof of Origin For Your Goods Karen Young Photography Instagram Karen Young Jewellery Instagram Karen Young Jewellery Karen Young Photography     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Sarah Wilson is one of our students in the Diploma in Silver Jewellery. She is joining us today to talk about her jewellery business and what it’s like being a student in the Diploma. She makes lovely jewellery inspired by nature and we’re glad to have her join us for this conversation!   EPISODE RECAP   How did you get involved in jewellery making? (1:55) You taught yourself at the beginning, how did you decide to join the Diploma? (5:31) What elements of the course were you most excited about when you started? (11:57) What are your thoughts on the videos each week? (14:31) Who is your mentor in the course? (16:06) Let’s talk about money - how did you manage to pay for the course? (20:23) What are you most looking forward to in the next two terms? (24:40) Can you share about your business and your plans for the next year? (27:19) What would you say to anyone who is thinking of joining the Diploma? (32:18)   RESOURCES Diploma in Silvery Jewellery Spindrift Silver Instagram     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Jewellers often get stuck with pricing in their business, especially when they first start out. This is a really crucial topic for us to talk about because pricing is so important. We’re going to talk about some tips on how to increase your prices, and we hope you join for this great conversation!   EPISODE RECAP   The first tip is to do a price increase in stages (5:13) The next tip is that you never need to defend your pricing. To anyone. (8:20) When you’re increasing your prices, you’ll want to decide how you want to do it (12:44) Low prices may be putting your customers off (14:37) People do not buy your work based on price! (17:19) Consider the value you’re giving (18:09) Finally, know that you’re worth it! (20:37)   RESOURCES The Jewellery Design and Drawing Course Pricing Your Jewellery For Profit      Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

We’ve invited two lovely guests from the Goldsmiths Company Assay Office in London - Charlotte Turner is the marketing manager and Adam Phillips is the customer service manager. We’re going to be talking today about hallmarking as jewellers and answering some questions about this topic. We’re going to learn a lot today and we’re excited for you to join us!   EPISODE RECAP   Let’s start with the basics - what is hallmarking? (2:00) How does a new jeweller get started with hallmarking? (5:08) Can anyone get a hallmark in the UK? (6:49) There are a few different options for marks - can you tell us about the differences? (7:29) Are there special marks people can get? How do you get one?  (15:09) There’s some confusion around hallmarking mixed metals. How do you go about those? (19:32) What if you have a silver ring that is under the weight mark and it has a bit of gold that is over the weight - discuss this (25:01) What is the dealers notice and what do we need to do as jewellers? (29:55) Brexit has happened, how have the hallmarking rules changed due to this? (35:07) Is the convention mark the same as the common control mark? (38:50) If I’m a UK supplier and selling to another country, do I need to follow their local hallmarking guidelines? (41:22) Does the UK have one of the most strict hallmarking guidelines? (42:47) Are there any other things you’d like to share with those listening? (48:20)   RESOURCES The Goldsmiths Company Assay Office London     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Jess Van Den is a self employed silversmith. She has been making jewellery since 2008 when she started selling jewellery as a hobby and then turned it into a full time business in 2010. She specialises in eco sterling silver wedding rings. She works out of her solar powered home in Australia and she has a lot to teach us about selling on Etsy.    EPISODE RECAP   Will you tell everyone a little about yourself and how you got started in jewellery? (2:29) Was Etsy a no-brainer? (3:50) Was your business immediately successful? Were you getting sales right away? (6:22) Let’s talk about Etsy - tell us about your recommendations for having a financially viable product (10:01) Your specialty is wedding rings, right? (14:16) Tell us about SEO and your advice (16:01) How did you do your shop - did you do it all yourself or did you outsource? (20:23) We know photographs are so important. What are your tips for photos on Etsy? (22:08) What else can we do to make our shop look as professional as possible? (26:41) How do reviews work on Etsy? (29:44) Why we shouldn’t neglect the boring parts of the site? (34:51) Tell us about where people can get more information on your guides and support (36:43)   RESOURCES Epheriell Create & Thrive Jess Van Den Instagram Epheriell Instagram Create & Thrive Resources Set Up Shop Course     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

I’m joined by the wonderful John Williams. He is the founder of The Ideas Lab - a company that has helped thousands of people find something they love, get started and make a living with it. He is a best selling author of the book Screw Work, Lets Play. His newest book is called F**k Work Lets Play and we’re excited to have him join us today!   EPISODE RECAP   Tell us a little about you (1:39) When you said you never wanted a job again, did you want to do something entrepreneurial? (2:38) How did you start writing books? (3:45) Tell us a little about ‘super niching’ (8:50) Can you share about documenting over creating? (13:49) When people have followed you on the journey they feel like they know you! (20:05) There is a part in your book about removing internal blocks. Tell us about that (25:37) Let’s talk about your book - what do people get from this book in a nutshell? (29:03) Where can people connect with you? (34:40)   RESOURCES Screw Work, Let’s Play F**k Work, Let’s Play The Ideas Lab FWorkLetsPlay.com    Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Tracey is a qualified senior art clay and precious metal clay instructor. She runs Craftworx Jewellery School which specialises in metal clay. She is also a guest designer on Jewellery Maker TV, has more than 20 years of experience and we’re lucky to have had her teach classes at Jewellers Academy as well. A big welcome to Tracey!   EPISODE RECAP   Tell us a little about how you got started in jewellery making and metal clay (2:10) Take us on the journey - you did classes? What experiences were helpful to you? (6:25) Tell us about your design process (9:44) You’re now a teacher but do you still do classes? (13:38) Tell us about Craftworx - how did you come to set up a jewellery school? (16:48) The other exciting thing you do is appear on Jewellery Maker TV. How did you get involved in that? (24:14) What would your advice be to anyone who is starting out with jewellery making or metal clay? (30:29) What is next for you? (32:52) Can you tell us some of your favorite metal clay artists? (35:20)   RESOURCES Craftworx Website Craftworx Facebook Craftworx Instagram Jewellery Maker TV Terry Kovalcik Website  Holly Gage Website     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

We have a special guest this week, the Chief Executive of Anti-Copying in Design (ACID) - a membership organization that exists to support designers in their design and intellectual property. If you’ve ever been copied, worried about copying someone else or had any questions, they can help!    EPISODE RECAP   Can you start by sharing about yourself and how you got involved in this area? (1:40) What was your background when you started this organization? (3:20) How do I as a jeweller protect my designs? (5:16) In what case would you register a design? (6:42) What counts as copying? (11:03) What is copyright? (12:45) The whole process is a lot easier with a contract (16:22) What is a trademark and do I need one? (17:12) Does this work the same in other countries? Does it protect your designs in other countries? (20:45) If you’re selling at a craft fair, is there any guidance on protecting yourself? (24:15) What do we do if we think our designs have been copied? (28:24) With a commission piece, who owns the design? (34:07) Tell us a bit more about ACID (36:51)   RESOURCES ACID Website ACID Facebook ACID Instagram Dids Macdonald Twitter Jewellery Business Bootcamp     Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

I am joined by Carol Harding of Silver Coast Jewellery. Carol is a long time Jewellers Academy member and boot camper. Carol is super inspiring - she has a positive attitude and has turned struggles into something positive. I am excited to share her story today.    EPISODE RECAP   Let’s start with your story - how did you get involved in jewellery making? (2:10) How has your business evolved over the years? What kind of jewellery do you make and how do you sell it? (4:09) Tell us about your experience in the bootcamp and what it did for your business (9:55) What things will you be working on this year at bootcamp? (12:09) What are some challenges you’ve had to overcome with your business? (15:36) Why did you choose to become a jeweller? (18:53) What would you say to someone who is thinking about doing the bootcamp this year but is not sure? (19:57) Do you have any tips for jewellers who are looking to grow? (21:29)   RESOURCES Jewellery Business Bootcamp Silver Coast Jewellery Silver Coast Jewellery Instagram Silver Coast Jewellery Pinterest Silver Coast Jewellery Facebook   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This week we’ll be talking about the Jewellery Business Bootcamp. This is something we run every year to set you up for success in the year ahead. It is designed to support you in your jewellery business growth. If you want jewellery to be your career, this bootcamp is for you. Join me as we talk more about it!   EPISODE RECAP   This is a course we’ve been running for four or five years and it’s aimed at you if you’re wanting to grow a thriving, full time jewellery business (2:22) There is growth out there waiting for you. In order to get it, we need four things (3:44) The knowledge aspect is all of the practical things you need to grow a business (4:24) Next is the strategy - taking the knowledge and turning it into a plan (7:01) Then you need the ongoing support (8:18) The final of the four things is the self belief element (9:17) So how does the bootcamp work? (11:18) The course is taught by me with a few guest speakers (16:32) Let’s look at what’s covered in the training week-by-week (19:49) How much time will the bootcamp take? (33:52)   RESOURCES Webinar: Grow Your Jewellery Business in 2021 Jewellery Business Bootcamp   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

This week we’re going to be talking about how to create a one-page business plan for your jewellery business to bring about success and growth in 2021. I do this at the start of every year in my business and it’s one of my favorite tools. It’s a very simple tool to use as a vision setting exercise.    EPISODE RECAP   Today we’re talking about creating a one-page business plan for your business (0:54) Let me explain how the one-page business plan works (4:20) First, write down your word of the year (6:05) Underneath that write your dream income for this year (7:56) Whatever that dream income goal was, I want you to double it (9:22) Take the first box and label it Q1 - then choose one key activity you’ll do in this quarter. Then do that for each quarter (10:46) Then put two to three bullet points for what you will do for each headline (12:46) Write down your revenue generating activity for each quarter (13:37) Finally, put the income goal that quarter (16:46) What I like about this is the discipline it creates for each quarter (19:46)   RESOURCES Jewellery Business Bootcamp

Welcome to Jo Medwey of Wire & Wood Jewellery. She is one of our Diploma students and is doing the course online. We’re going to talk about her jewellery business, her background and her experience as a Diploma student.    EPISODE RECAP   Tell us about yourself - how did you get involved in jewellery making? (2:08) How did you feel once you were committed to the course? (7:21) What has your experience been like on the Diploma? What has been your favorite week so far? (8:26) Each Diploma student has a mentor, can you tell us a little about that? (10:16) The community is so important, isn’t it? (13:17) What are you looking forward to next term? (13:59) What’s your vision for your business going forward and how does the Diploma help that? (14:27) The money could be a barrier for some people. How did you manage this? (16:57) It’s helpful to think about how you manage your time around the Diploma. How do you do it? (19:30) If someone hasn’t learned online before, how have you found that process? (21:02) What would you say to someone who is thinking about joining but still not sure? (22:44)   RESOURCES Wire & Wood Jewellery Instagram Diploma in Silver Jewellery Diploma in Fine Jewellery   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Today is a very special episode. We’re talking about two exciting courses that are opening for enrolment - the Diploma in Silver Jewellery and the Diploma in Fine Jewellery. I’ll share about what’s involved, who they’re for and what’s on the curriculum. If you want to develop your making skills this year, one of these courses is for you!   EPISODE RECAP   The Diploma in Silver Jewellery is the first course - for beginner to improver jewellers (6:01) You are assigned a mentor during the programme (8:32) There will be two live Q&A sessions each week (10:40) One of the most crucial parts is the Facebook community (11:50) Let’s talk about the actual courses (12:41) The question I always ask is - Where would you like to be a year from now? (22:34) We also offer a full material kit as an option to purchase with your course (24:09) Let’s talk about the Diploma in Fine Jewellery - for intermediate jewellers (25:46) Why fine jewellery? (27:36) Let’s talk through the curriculum (29:17) Join me on the Open Days if you have more questions (40:09) I hope that you get the growth you’re after in the next year (41:54)   RESOURCES Diploma in Silver Jewellery Diploma in Fine Jewellery Diploma in Silver Jewellery Open Day (Tuesday 5th January 2021 at 8pm GMT London) Diploma in Silver Jewellery Trailer Diploma in Fine Jewellery Trailer Diploma in Fine Jewellery Open Day (Thursday 7th January 2021, 8pm GMT London) contact@JewellersAcademy.com      Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Participating in creative challenges can be a great way to develop your skills and connect with other creatives. This week on the podcast I talk with Anna C Campbell, founder of the very successful Ring a Month challenge. She talks about how participating in challenges has helped her and others in the community. I hope this episode inspires you to join or create your own challenge!     EPISODE RECAP   A little about what Anna has been up to with her challenges (1:44) Tell us about how you got involved in the Ring A Month challenge (2:56) Have you made more jewellery after starting this challenge? (5:36) Had you done a challenge before this? (6:41) Are there hashtags or ways to connect with the other people participating? (9:08) Why have challenges been good for you? (9:54) How do you find challenges to take part in? (14:21) What kind of personality types do best with challenges? (15:46) What is the future for the Ring A Month challenge? (18:57) Where can people go to get involved? (22:01)   RESOURCES Jewellery School Scotland Anna C Campbell Instagram Ring A Month Facebook Ring A Month Instagram   Find Jewellers Academy on Instagram and Facebook! 

Today we’re going to be evaluating your year in your jewellery business. 2020 has been a year of curve balls and massive change, so it’s more important than ever to evaluate things. That way you can go into 2021 with insight and knowledge to start fresh. This is a simple tool, so grab a piece of paper and let’s dive in!   EPISODE RECAP   This is a simple tool. Get out paper to take notes and let’s get started (1:35) Draw out six boxes and in the first box put the title “Activities” (2:55) In box number two put “Gains” or “Wins” (4:24) The next box are “Losses” from the year (5:50) Underneath the top three boxes is the most important of all - the “Lessons Learned” box (7:25) The next two are related to each other - the “Income” box and the “Profit” box (8:50) I suggest doing this, taking a break and ending the year. Set goals after the New Year (10:30) Merry Christmas to those who celebrate, Happy Holidays to everyone else and well done! You made it! (11:20)

Today I’m joined by Rebecca Wilson - a jeweller, ceramic artist and talented business lady. Rebecca has done successful crowdfunding campaigns and we’re going to talk about that today. Crowdfunding is a great way to raise awareness and funds for your business. Join us as we jump in!   EPISODE RECAP Today I’m joined by Rebecca Wilson (0:54) Can you share a little about how you came into jewellery making and ceramics? (1:51) Your work is full of lovely colors and memories. Was that intentional? (3:53) How did you come into this style? (4:42) What is crowdfunding? (5:57) You’ve done a few crowdfunding campaigns. Can you talk us through what you did and the results? (6:44) How did you get people to know about your crowdfunder and how did you manage the marketing? (12:24) You do crowdfunding to get money but it’s also like a launch (14:44) Did you do any press releases? (15:50) A lot of crowdfunding pages also have videos (16:17) Was it important to tell people about a specific event you were trying to raise the money for? (18:18) Did you reach your target? (19:50) The deadline is really important, isn’t it? (20:41) Tell us about the next crowdfunder - the one you just finished (23:23) I imagine there’s a lot of work that went into these (27:26) It’s a lot of work but I’m sure there’s momentum behind it (29:17) If you had advice to give someone considering a crowdfunded campaign, what would it be? (30:53)   RESOURCES Rebecca Wilson's Website Rebecca Wilson’s Instagram Rebecca Wilson’s Facebook

Kerry has a very inspiring story. Her business looks like it’s been going for ten years but it’s been only one year. Her jewellery is incredible and edgy, and I know you’re going to love her story!   EPISODE RECAP   Welcome! This week I am joined by Kerry of Thorn & Claw Jewellery (0:50) Tell us a little about how you got involved in jewellery making (1:42) You have a strong identity as a jeweller. How did you go from your first silversmith class to developing this style? (5:14) You moved on to wax carving as well. What was that like? (7:30) It seems like you’ve really thought about what you want and what brings you joy and have had the discipline to stick with that (9:29) You have amazing branding. How did you do that? (11:15) Tell us about the name of your business (15:08) Your photography is very strong. Tell us about that (17:06) It’s been impressive how you’ve grown your Instagram. Can you share some tips? (22:24) You’ve had some successful giveaways that have grown your audience. Can you share a little about that? (27:49) You started this business with a full time job. Tell us what it was like doing it alongside your job (30:35) What was your bootcamp journey like? (34:17) You set up your website this year and it looks awesome. Is there anything you’d share with jewellers thinking about starting their website? (37:34) Where can people find out more about you? (43:03)   RESOURCES Thorn & Claw Jewellery Thorn & Claw Instagram Thorn & Claw Facebook Jewellers Academy Bootcamp  

What are Instagram reels, why are they important, how do you use them and what content should you share? Instagram reels are really popular right now and these are just a few of the questions we’re going to tackle as we get into this topic today.    EPISODE RECAP   What is an Instagram reel? (2:52) My challenge for you with your Instagram reels (4:15) Reels are on a new tab on the Instagram navigation bar (5:18) Let’s talk about what to post in your reels (7:04) Use story telling (8:38) Reels are great for anything education or for giving advise (11:04) Showcase the products you have for sale! (12:06) Ways to get your content on to your reels (14:14) Try to post at least one reel a week (14:50) I’ll leave it there this week so you can go and try out your reels! (16:30)

I met Julia many years ago and she was one of my first teachers in jewellery making. She has an incredible story.  For anyone who doesn’t know what metal clay is or who just wants to learn more, this is the episode for you! We’re going to be diving in to all things related to this topic.   EPISODE RECAP   Welcome Julia Rai! (0:50) I know you most for teaching and supporting people. Is that still a big part of what you do? (1:42) For anyone listening who doesn’t know what metal clay is, can you describe it? (5:21) So you started with metal clay and then what happened? (6:55) Would you tell us what the Master’s Registry is? (9:50) I imagine if you can take on the feedback, your skills improve so much (19:50) What’s interesting about your journey is the resilience you have and the attitude you have to keep trying things (22:56) You started the Metal Clay Academy. Can you tell us about that? (26:12) What would you recommend to people who are starting out on their metal clay journey? (29:37) What is AMCAW and how can people get involved? (34:20) Where can people to go to find out more about you and organizations you’re involved in? (37:48)   RESOURCES Julia Rai’s Website Julia Rai Facebook Master’s Registry Metal Clay Academy AMCAW CSACJ

Today I’m joined by Rachel, who founded The Copy House. She is a copywriter and proofreader. When I was starting my business there were so many elements of copy I had to write, and I know this is a topic that is important for everyone. She’s been doing this for 15 years and has worked for many different kinds of companies. She has some great tips for us, I hope you enjoy!    EPISODE RECAP A big welcome to Rachel (1:54) Can you tell us about your background? (3:30) The first tip is to write clearly (7:43) Don’t ramble - feel confident enough to stop a sentence and start another (12:19) CAPITAL LETTERS (15:34) Next is around formatting and using space (18:47) Avoid the usual cliches in your industry (22:16) This tip is about selling the benefits (27:12) Rather than talk about you, think about your best customer and speak to them (30:30) Don’t make judgments about your audience (34:15) Leave it and come back to it (38:22) The tenth tip is to proof read it (39:51) You gave an extra tip - channel all your energy, bring it to your writing and it will come through (42:05) Where can we go to connect with you? (44:42)   RESOURCES the copy house the copy house Instagram the copy house Facebook

Scott is a master goldsmith with over 24 years of experience in the jewellery trade. He’s part of the duo team that makes up Vanilla Ink — a jewellery school in Scotland. He did his training as an apprentice and recently launched a book called Stone Setting. He is also a wonderful, funny, down-to-earth guy and I look forward to having a chat with him today.    EPISODE RECAP A big welcome to Scott (0:51)  Let’s start at the beginning - how did you get into jewellery? (2:12) What was it like being an apprentice? (3:38) Tell us a little about your book (6:02) What is your least favorite stone setting? (8:58) What is the most important message that you consistently give to your students? (10:27) What do you think of the different paths to jeweller - people who have done degrees versus short courses? (16:59) Everyone can do this - if you want it and enjoy it, do it (27:39) A lot of people have a passion for this but don’t see it through. What has kept you going? (28:39) Where do we find the book and more about you? (37:41)   RESOURCES Stone Setting Book Scott’s Instagram  

This week's podcast is a little bit different. It is a five-minute episode that can be used as a daily meditation of affirmations for jewellers. Wherever you are, whatever you’re doing, take some time to listen to these affirmations designed especially for you. The more you repeat them, the more powerful they become for you    EPISODE RECAP   Wherever you are, whatever you are doing  Let the following phrases wash over you,  The more we repeat them the more powerful they become  Take a deep breath in and out and open your heart to receive these true statements.  Know they are meant for you and you are completely deserving of each and every one of them them   I am enough  I love making jewellery  I am creative, energetic and ever inspired  I am enough  I trust in my abilities  I am smart enough to make complex decisions on my own  I am worthy of success and abundance I know I have what it takes  I believe I can achieve anything I set my mind to  I am allowed to have bad days  I do enough    My jewellery is a gift to the world I feel compelled to share I am building a successful jewellery business each and every day  I do not compare myself to others  I support and cherish my fellow jeweller  Whatever I can dream for my business I can and will achieve  I do not need to control everything   My jewellery is enough  I love my job and it makes me happy  My potential is limitless  Every year I am learning more and more  I do not need to rush  I have time I am enough    I am driven by passion and purpose  I release negative thoughts and stress  Money and wealth come easily to me  I always have enough    I release my fear and welcome mistakes  I am learning every day  I am energised by the challenges in my business  I started my jewellery business at exactly the right time in life  My business meets and exceeds my needs and the needs of my family  I can be the breadwinner  I focus on the value-generating parts of my business  My love and passion shines through in my beautiful jewellery    I am a jeweller My customers value me  There are no limits to what I am capable of creating  I am building my following each and every day  I plan and take action to get results  The people I care about are rooting for me  I don’t compare myself to strangers on the internet   I deserve to be paid what my work and my time is worth  My business will continue to grow and prosper  I am in this for the long run and will not give up  People need my jewellery now more than ever  I am full of inspiration and creativity  I handle stressful situations with ease I believe in myself completely  And I know I am supported, valued and loved I am enough   Thank you for joining me on this meditation of affirmations today, now you are ready to do something great   All the love, Jess  

Christmas is fast approaching and jewellery makes an incredible gift. This is a huge opportunity for jewellers, many get 75%-90% of their sales in the final quarter of the year so if you’ve struggled with sales this year, do not lose heart! In this episode, I share lots of tips for ensuring your business is ready to make gift sales.   EPISODE RECAP   1. How to label and signpost your jewellery as a gift (4:26) 2. Show your packaging (10:02) 3. Consider the customer (12:02) 4. Be clear on postage dates (15:28) 5. Be ready for the 6-week period in November and December that’s a key time for marketing (17:32) 6. Create jewellery that’s easy to give to somebody (20:39) 7. Create a gift guide (23:17) 8. Have a clear return policy (24:18) 9. Take seasonal photos (25:00) 10. Offer gift vouchers (25:52)   RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Jewellers Academy Facebook Group

Today I’m joined by the wonderful Fiona Haines of Wise Fig Jewellery – she has an incredible jewellery business and an even more incredible story. Fiona is here to talk to us about her business, her journey and gemstones – one of our favourite topics!   EPISODE RECAP   Could you share with us a little about your journey? (1:31) Tell us a bit about the training you did in gemmology (3:10) Gem A is the program you went to and GIA is another one people talk about. Did you look into both programs? (4:50) Tell us a bit about your favorite gemstones (5:44) So you learned all about these gemstones and then you moved on to doing some cutting. How did you train in that? (7:13) When you start gem cutting, what do you start with? (9:28) What kind of equipment do you need for cutting? Has it been a big investment? (12:41) How has all your training impacted your business? (14:40) For anyone listening who wants to dip their toe in the water, what would be your advice on where to start? (16:26) Tell us about your business in general, your goals for the future and what you want for your business (18:32) What do you think has helped you get to the stage where people recognize your jewellery as Wise Fig? (20:22) You are one of the amazing Masterminders this year. What’s that been like for you? (21:28) What has been your greatest achievement so far in your business? (23:21) For any jewellers listening who are in the early stages of their business, what would be your biggest piece of advice? (24:39)   RESOURCES Wise Fig Jewellery Wise Fig Instagram GIA Gem-A Jewellers Academy

Today I’m joined by the wonderful Mireille Najm. She has worked with me for a little while now - she was the manager at The London Jeweller School and now she’s the head of the diplomas at The Jewellers Academy. The topic is one we can probably all relate to - going from anxiety to calm. Join us as we tackle this topic.     EPISODE RECAP   Why don’t you start off by introducing yourself and why we’re talking about this topic today (1:53) That’s a good place to start - what is anxiety and how do we know if we have it? In your experience, was it obvious? (2:56) So your first point of call was research - was that helpful? What did you do next? (5:46) Did your recovery involve anyone else or was it more learning for you? (8:14) Did it get easier as time went on? How did that journey go? (12:13) How did you let go of the self pity that you speak about? (13:47) The way you speak to yourself in your mind makes such a difference. You’ve spoken about gratitude and using that, how did that come into your recovery? (17:29) How do you let things go? (20:50) Did you ever have any shame around what you were going through? This is an issue people face sometimes if they feel they shouldn’t be going through it (22:12) Anxiety can sometimes come out as procrastination or feeling unmotivated or blocking yourself from achieving success. What are your thoughts around that and have you witnessed that at all? (24:49) I love this idea of ‘earthing’. Can you explain it to anyone who doesn’t know what it is? (27:02) Often when we’re in pain we’re looking for the answer, the one thing that makes it better. But from what you’re saying it’s never just the one thing, it’s a gradual journey (32:19) Take the pressure off. That sounds like a good note for us to end on. Do you have a final thought you’d like to leave us with? (33:41)     RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Jewellers Academy Facebook Group

Anelia Kuprina is one of our incredible Diploma mentors and she has also taught with us at the London Jewellers School and The Jewellers Academy. We are excited for you to join us for this conversation about the stages of jewellery design!     EPISODE RECAP   A big, big welcome to the wonderful Anelia Kuprina (0:50) For anyone who hasn’t met you before and doesn’t know about your work, can you tell us a little about your jewellery and how you got started in this industry? (1:10) Today we’re going to be talking about design and a mini lesson for anyone thinking about the design process (2:33) So let’s start at the beginning. What is the first stage of design for you? (3:43) And if you’re working with a client, there may be some information they give you straight away. But there may be areas you need to drill down with the brief (4:47) Once we’ve got the brief from the client, what’s the next stage? (6:49) So once we’ve got the brief and outline, we look for inspiration to fill in the gaps (8:35) What is the third element of design after the brief and inspiration? (9:53) Ok wonderful, what is the next stage? (14:00) How do you do the concept behind the design? Do you write it down? (16:00) So once we’ve got a concept, what’s the next phase in the design process? (17:07) You were saying that you don’t have to do every single once of these stages, but they should be in your toolkit in case you need to bring them out. Do you find that if you get stuck you go back to the stages and do more? (19:14) So what is number six? (20:08) Sometimes it’s making the whole model and sometimes just the section that’s new to you, right? (25:41) Ok so we’ve done the research and some samples and test pieces, what is the next phase? (26:50) This brings us on to our last stage - which is what? (28:04) Do you go through all these stages every time you design a piece? Are there some that are more crucial for you? (29:56) What would you say were your biggest design mistakes? (31:50) Anelia teaches design classes, as you can probably tell. It would be lovely to hear if you do the same thing or if you have a different process. (33:52)     RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Anelia Jewellery Anelia Jewellery Instagram

This week I am joined by Alexis, the founder of Bonnie Magpie which is an incredible jewellery brand. I really wanted to get her on to have a chat and discuss her business - she’s really doing all the things we’re trying to support jewellers to do. Join us as we dive in!   EPISODE RECAP   Welcome to Alexis  (1:37) Can you give us a little background of how you got started? (2:10) When you work with jewellery for a long time you start to see such minute details (4:38) One thing I’ve really loved about what you’ve done this year is launched a new website. Tell us a bit about the process of creating and launching the website (5:36) How long did your website take overall? (10:39) I love how you bring in some of your Scottish-ness and personality to your business (14:31) You have a lovely picture on your About Me page and the nice thing is you don’t need a lot, just one or two. Did you have that professionally taken? (16:09) One tip I’ve had from a photographer is to invite a friend along to talk to while you do the shoot (16:52) I was very pleased to receive your first email because I’m always going on about email marketing. How did you do that? (18:09) Something that’s really nice about emailing is asking questions and getting responses from people (23:41) You mentioned that you took part in the Jewellery Business Bootcamp this year. What was that like for you? (24:28) I think it’s very confusing when we try and create a brand when we don’t know who the customer is (26:30) You have a degree in design, has that informed your jewellery business? (28:11) I knew for years in my business that my design wasn’t right. I remember going to a designer and them explaining to me how they were going to do it and it opened a whole new world (30:58) So what has been your greatest achievement so far in your business? (33:03) I’m glad you brought up your website because I thought how you launched it was really great. Tell us what you did to put yourself out there and how you got over the anxiety? (34:03) Well done on all your hard work. What advice would you give to jewellers who are just starting out? (39:30) Where can we find you online? (41:07)     RESOURCES The Jewellers Academy Mailing List Bonnie Magpie Website Bonnie Magpie Instagram Bonnie Magpie Facebook

I often get asked about email marketing - we know it’s great for our business, but what do we send out? Email marketing is the most effective way to sell your work online and to build a community. There’s nothing like email, so if you haven’t started or are quite new there is so much potential there! Join me as we talk through this topic.     EPISODE RECAP   Today I’m going to be talking you through 12 email content ideas to send to your customers (3:37) The first email we want to send (and if you send no other emails at all) is the welcome email (4:16) Email number two is the gift email. We need to give as much as we can to our customers  (6:57) The next email is your origin story. This can be done in all different ways (9:27) The next is similar but a bit different - the lesson learned email. This is where you share something that has gone wrong (11:26) And next is the useful resources email (13:45) Next is the spotlight email. This is a very useful email for any e-commerce website (16:58) The best sellers email is the next email - this is a sales based email (19:30) The next is another sales email - the flash offer or flash sales email. This is normally around some sort of launch or sale (20:42) The next email ties on nicely to the flash offer email - the last chance email (22:07) We’re getting through them - only three left! The next is perhaps the most important email after the welcome email - the abandoned cart checkout email (23:08) Next is the behind the scenes email. This is a great email to send out for a handmade designer (25:05) The final email that I’ll leave you with today is the commission story email. I love these emails and jewellers do not send them enough! (26:43) It’s not about being an interesting person or having loads of things to say, it’s really about looking for an angle and committing to something. All of these can be super short (29:41)     RESOURCES The Jewellers Academy Mailing List

Today I'm joined by Sally Costen aka The Clerkenwell Jeweller. Sally started her career as a graphic designer and retrained as a jeweller at the London Jewellery School. She is an incredible jeweller who regularly enters and wins jewellery design awards. In this episode, I talk to her about her career, why she enters competitions, how you can replicate this success for your business and the value behind it.   EPISODE RECAP   Big, big welcome to Sally Costen! (3:13) To get us started, tell us a little about your business now and how you got involved in jewellery making (3:57) What was the first jewellery class you did? And at that point, did you know it was going to turn into something more? (5:01) One of the things I really love about your story is that you just go for stuff (7:17) So you did the class and then what happened? You went on to apply for and win some amazing awards. Take us on the journey (8:21) Even the process of applying for these awards and competitions helps you to work on your design and your business (14:59) Like you said, perhaps the biggest thing it does is boost your confidence (15:58) It’s also the contacts that you make in the industry (17:05) I want to talk a little about design now, because I know it’s something you’re really passionate about. How important is design to you in your work? (17:30) Sometimes the pressure to design in a way that is unique is counterproductive, isn’t it? (19:07) Where do you start with your design? (19:34) How do you take sketches to reality? What’s your process? (20:07) Do you have a different process if you’re making a collection versus an individual piece? (23:05) Do you write down what you’re doing at each stage? Do you have a process for that? (25:19) What would you say to jewellers out there who are struggling with design? (28:11) One other topic I wanted to ask you about is being part of the mastermind. Can you tell people listening what it is and why you got involved? (30:32) Thank you for sharing a bit of your experience. How can people connect with you? (33:58)   RESOURCES The Clerkenwell Jeweller Sally Costen Instagram The Jewellers Academy

Joining me on this weeks podcast is jeweller Hayley Kruger. Hayley has been in the jewellery industry for many years and as a jeweller she has a diverse business working with customers and commissions, teaching and television work. In this episode we talk about her career as a jeweller and focus on the issue of fear and imposter syndrome and Hayley’s take on how to manage it.     EPISODE RECAP   A big welcome to the lovely Hayley Kruger (0:50) One thing that stands out to me is the kind of care you give to people - it can make a huge difference (3:31) Today we’re talking about fear and not letting it stop us. As an established jeweller, do you still experience fear in your business? (4:21) Sometimes we think that we’ll feel ready later, but actually doing it is what takes the fear away (6:42) The fear doesn’t actually have to do with your skills (8:56) What are some fears that you’ve faced and how have you overcome them? (9:34) How do you manage when you work at home and have less of the boundaries or work mode? (11:42) Do any of your fears come true? (13:32) I imagine you’re good at helping people feel at ease around the jewellery process (16:01) What would you do in your life and business going forward if you weren’t afraid? (18:35) Where would you be in three or five year’s time if you had no fear? (20:14) What actions do you take when you feel stuck? (22:59) Something I’ve learned is that working hard is not always the answer to reaching your goals (24:54) What would you say to jewellers who are experiencing imposter syndrome or fear in their business and it’s holding them back? (27:32) Do you enjoy being a jeweller? (29:10) In almost any creative industry, we often feel guilty about asking for more money (30:33) Where can we find you online? (33:00)     RESOURCES Haley Kruger’s Website  Haley Kruger’s Instagram The Jewellers Academy

This week hear from me about my story. From starting at zero, to building my jewellery business, creating the London Jewellery School and Jewellers Academy to scaling to a £500k a year business. When I first started out I couldn’t have even imagined that being possible! Find out more and some of the lessons I’ve learned along the way in this week’s podcast.    EPISODE RECAP   I started my first real business back in 2008. I had never considered that you could actually be a jeweller (1:51) I wasn’t making quite enough and I was thinking about ways to diversify my income. In one course about teacher training I found that I wanted to be a teacher (4:51) The teaching business became the London Jewellery School - one of the worlds largest jewellery training centres  (6:23) Something I hadn’t considered with all of these businesses was what the day-to-day would be like. The money was coming in but I was exhausted and that was not the dream that I had (8:09) Even when things feel like a disaster, it may be pushing you in the right direction (11:14) And then I had another disaster (11:50) There were also lots of incredible things - business awards, programs, etc. (14:30) The next phase was trying to grow The Jewellery School - this was more of a challenge than getting started (17:27) Learning how to take a rest has been a process for me (18:55) I wanted to be able to reach a wider audience and I knew that online was the way to do that (20:46) There are seasons in my business where I’m having to do a lot, but I’m very mindful of it and take the time off afterwards (23:52) Nowadays I run Jewellers Academy full time (24:32) A few of the main lessons I’ve learned along the way (25:22)     RESOURCES The Jewellers Academy

This week I’m joined by jeweller Sally How to talk about how to use Pinterest successfully for jewellers. Sally is the founder of her jewellery business How Fine Designs and she has reached nearly 300,000 monthly viewers on Pinterest. She shares her expertise and tips on using Pinterest to drive traffic to your website   EPISODE RECAP Can you tell us what Pinterest is and how we can use it to grow a jewellery business? (3:55) Pinterest almost guides you through the experience, which is nice from our customer’s perspective, isn’t it? (6:04) What do you recommend we pin? (7:28) Should I pin my jewellery on a board with a different topic? Can you pin the same thing twice? (9:19) Pins need to relate to the destination/website or the customer can’t find you (11:31) How do web links work? What do I need to do behind the scenes to make sure it all happens smoothly for customers? (12:21) Are hashtags used on Pinterest? (13:17) Using descriptions on Pinterest (15:02) Your account on Pinterest has done very well, why do you think it has been so successful? (15:35) How do you keep up with all the posting, do you use scheduling apps? (17:02) Do you notice some pins that do really well and others that don’t? (19:08) How is Pinterest better than Instagram or Facebook? (20:17) Many of us are doing everything for our business. A lot of people get overwhelmed and stop things, so making a decision to pause one thing and focus on another thing is really wise. (22:32) Do we need permission to pin another person’s image? What are the rules around that? (25:08) Sally is creating a Pinterest for Jewellers course for Jewellers Academy. Can you tell us a little about it? (27:17)     RESOURCES How Fine Designs Pinterest How Fine Designs Website  How Fine Designs Instagram Tailwind App Jewelers Academy Courses

This week I’m excited to share with you a strategy and 6-month plan for having a £20K Christmas in your jewellery business this year. Christmas is traditionally the busiest time of year for jewellers and 2020 will be no exception. I talk you through the different things to focus on each month from now until December to prepare for your Christmas sales, connect with your customers and smash your targets.     EPISODE RECAP   The income you bring in is directly related to the goals you set and the strategy you put into action for yourself (1:31) My first task for you today is to think about what you’d like to achieve (2:27) I want to talk you through a six month plan to work through before the holiday (5:17) In an ideal world, we’d start in July with a Planning Month (5:37) Next is August, which is the Making Month - what are you going to make to sell this year? (7:26) If you have a pen and paper, write down the following: (12:16) My income target is _____ I plan to sell this many pieces in total _____ My average price per piece is _____ Therefore this month I need to make _____ September is Photography Month (14:17) Next is October, which is Web-shop Month and we’re opening the doors to your online shop (18:25) Moving on to November which is the Selling Month. This is when things get serious (22:04) I’m going to run through some marketing ideas for you (26:00) I wanted to talk to you a little about the “sales combination” which is what leads to a sale online (32:05) That brings us to December, which is Wrapping Up Month (32:24) This year we know that people will be buying online and the cap they’re willing to pay for jewellery has increased (36:50) It’s really important to believe in yourself. Whether you believe we can or you can’t, you will be right (37:20)     RESOURCES Christmas Planning Download

Our wonderful guest Emma René joins us to talk about 10 mistakes jewellers often make with their branding, but even more importantly - how to overcome those mistakes. Emma and I have worked closely for the past few years. She’s an award-winning Art Director who has had a long career in advertising. She took some time out to raise a family and now works part-time as the Digital Marketing Coordinator for Jewellers Academy. She also runs her own jewellery label - Narratorium. She has a wealth of experience to share with us and we’re excited to welcome her.     EPISODE RECAP   Welcome Emma (3:58) Emma, would you start by introducing yourself and your background? (4:50) Let’s get started going through the ten mistakes. What is the first mistake a lot of handmade designers make when it comes to their branding? (1. A logo that is too elaborate) (7:13) Mistake 2. A lack of consistency throughout the brand (13:50) How do we get that consistency through the brand? (17:27) Mistake 3. Cluttered design or visuals (22:37) Mistake 4. Not having a clear brand story or perspective (25:25) This brand story is something that may evolve, isn’t it? (27:51) Mistake 5. Neglecting copy (30:24) This is your product descriptions, your writing on your website, blog, newsletters? (30:58) Mistake 6. A lack of focus on your customer (34:48) One example that comes to mind is if your model is completely different than who your demographic is, that could put them off. (35:50) Mistake 7. Being too polished or rigid with your brand (38:15) Mistake 8. The packaging doesn’t match your brand (41:25) You want to start small and go on a journey (43:53) Mistake 9. Not refreshing your brand over time (44:28) Mistake 10. Sharing irrelevant content (48:26) Occasionally we see accounts where you can’t tell they’re selling jewellery because there are so many other things going on. It should be obvious what you’re selling! (50:37) We’d love for you to come and join us on Facebook and share which one of these ten you need to work on next (51:51)   RESOURCES Narratorium Instagram Canva Lightroom Jewellers Academy Facebook Narratorium Website

This week we’re joined by Banita Mistry the founder of @Jewellers_of_Colour an Instagram community connecting Black, Asian and Ethnic Minority Jewellers to share stories, resources and opportunities. This year there has been a real awakening about what is going on in the world and how we can move towards more positive change. I talk with Banita about the jewellery industry specifically and how we can move toward a better, more integrated future.     EPISODE RECAP   For anyone who doesn’t know you or the Jewellers Of Colour Instagram account, can you tell us a little about your background? (2:25) Can you tell us a little about your experience and what it has been like? (8:47) What you’re saying makes me think about the importance of role models - we see women in business, moms doing things. But how many ethnic or Indian or black jewellers are represented? Do you feel like that had an impact on you? (13:12) It’s hard enough to do your own thing, start your own business, put yourself out there. It seems like it’s compounded if there are comments or an underlying structure that makes you feel like you can’t do it. Would you agree? (16:13) That brings us to the idea of a ‘pro-active response’. What can people do that would help to move things forward and make this something that brings about real change? (19:21) There are things even small businesses can do, and it’s nice to know everyone can contribute (23:04) What are the goals of the Jewellers Of Color Instagram account? (26:08) I saw something come up on your account that was a picture of fine jewellery and you asked - if jewellery wasn’t a primary white industry, would this be what jewellery looked like today? (28:37) For me, this has opened my mind to a lot of things and made me think about the industry in a different way. Is there anything else you’d like to cover? (31:30)     RESOURCES Jewellers Of Colour Instagram Jewellers of Colour newsletter Goldsmiths Craft and Design Council

This week we’re joined by Stelios Karantonas who is a trained goldsmith. He trained in Greece before moving over to London to set up his workshop. He has his own jewellery brand and is a very knowledgable and talented jeweller. Today he shares some of his journey to encourage us. Let’s get into the episode!   EPISODE RECAP   Tell us a little about your journey into jewellery making (1:42) You trained in Greece and live in London. You sell your jewellery in Hatton Gardens, is that correct? (3:09) When you were doing your training in Greece, what were the key things you learned? (4:14) Tell us a little bit about your business now (9:10) Can you think of any mistakes you’ve made in business and what you learned from them? (10:20) A question we get asked a lot is - what is the different between calling yourself a jeweller, a goldsmith, a silversmith, etc.? (12:09) What was the first collection you ever made? Is that still running? Tell us a little about your evolution as a jeweler. (16:43) We talk a lot in the membership about identifying a signature style as a jeweller and nurturing that as time goes on. Do you feel like you have a signature style? (19:33) If you had to go back to your 26-year-old self and give him one piece of advice from your jewellery career, what would that advice be? (25:08) When you start a jewellery business, it seems like there’s always someone who has something to say that’s not helpful. For me it made me more determined. (27:33) What achievement throughout your jewellery career are you most proud of? (29:21) It’s important to remind ourselves that the work we do matters. It’s not just making pretty things, it has an impact.  (32:15) I know Stelios because he’s been teaching with the Jewellers Academy (33:58) You’re one of the incredible mentors on the Diploma Course. Can you tell us a little about that and what it’s like to be a mentor? (36:14) Something I always say about Stelios is that he’s one of the most talented jewellers I know, but is so giving with his knowledge and skills. (38:13)     RESOURCES Diploma In Silver Jewellery Course  Nikos Koulis  Stelios Karantonas Stelios Karantonas Instagram

This week on the podcast we’re joined by the jeweller Karen Young. Karen had a successful corporate career and has made the transition to following the thing she loves - jewellery - and now has two thriving businesses. If you are considering making a transition from your job to a handmade business then I know you will find hearing Karen’s story fascinating.     EPISODE RECAP Welcome (2:14) Tell us a bit about being in a corporate career and transitioning to being a jewellery designer? (3:11) We often have a lot going on - do you think the first step is to stop and realize it’s a lot? (6:36) Did you feel any guilt about leaving your job? What kind of feelings came up for you? (7:44) How did the idea of being a jewellery designer come about? (10:22) How did you train to grow a business while you were working? (13:52) Sometimes people who come from a corporate job think they don’t have skills to run a business. But you have so many skills! (17:15) Were you concerned about how your friends and family would judge your decision to leave your corporate career to start a business? (18:41) When I first said I wanted to start a jewellery business, people thought it was a hobby. Did you experience any of that? (22:05) What lessons did you learn in the first year of your business? (24:45) Take the time to look how far you’ve come (29:07) What advice would you give to anyone who is thinking about starting a handmade business? (31:00) You have two businesses - can you tell us a little bit about them and what’s next for you? (33:39) Any final advice? (39:41)     RESOURCES Karen Young Jewellery Karen Young Photography  Karen Young’s Instagram Karen Young Photography Instagram  Jewellery Photography Course

Episode 5 is all about how to nail a model jewellery photoshoot. Jewellers often photograph their jewellery with props but using a model can really elevate your brand, give your jewellery a particular look and make it more desirable for your customers. Join me in conversation with jeweller Elin Horgan who has experience of working with jewellery photoshoots for her own brand to pick up her valuable tips and advice   EPISODE RECAP Welcome. The importance of model photography for jewellery sales (2:02) Can you tell us a little about your business? (4:07) What would you say to someone starting out about how to find a photographer? (6:47) Tell us a little about the shoot - do you attend the shoot yourself? Is it just you and the photographer? Do you have a stylist? (8:48) How do you find a model? Is it okay to use friends or do you find a professional model? (9:59) How much does a model photoshoot cost? (12:07) How do you plan the shoot with your photographer? (14:17) Are your shoots in a studio or outside? (16:40) Do you have to worry about permission for your location? (20:10) How do you prepare what shots of your jewellery you want, make sure you get the shots you like and look after the jewellery? (21:56) A good model shoot really elevates the brand (25:45) Where can we find you at, Elin? (26:29) Does the model bring clothes? Do you buy clothes? Do you rent clothes? (27:05) Elin has made a checklist of how to prepare for a model jewellery shoot (29:25) At what stage in our business should we do a photoshoot? (29:48) Any final tips to share? (32:45)   RESOURCES Elin Hogan’s Jewellery  Elin Hogan’s Instagram  Elin Hogan’s Facebook LCF Fashion Network on Facebook Free model photoshoot checklist

So much is changing right now about how we do work. Many of us have something we’ve created that we sell physically, but now we’re looking at how to pivot to have a strong online offering. Join us as we talk about some of the top tips for taking your business online - without discounting all you’ve created so far! EPISODE RECAP The first step to turning an offline business into an online business - start with what you already have (3:01) Use your knowledge and market research during physical sales to gain understanding about your customer (6:56) Talking to people online is a very different way of talking to people than offline (8:25) Try and take yourself out of the situation and see it as being about your customers and how you can help them (10:06) You’re already an established business with products. So you know what your customers like, think about how you would speak to someone in real life if you were selling to them (11:30) Pick one key social channel and be present in that channel every day (12:58) This one is non-negotiable - get people onto your mailing list and that’s where you sell them (14:10) A common mistake people make when starting out is having a website, an etsy store, etc. and there are too many places to manage (15:23) A few more things on this topic as we close(17:40) Don’t tell yourself that you can’t do it - you’ve already run a business and you can do it! (19:26)   RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Jewellers Academy Email List Launch Your Jewellery Business In 20 Days Instagram For Jewellers   

Today we’re joined by Stuart Pool to talk about ethical gemstones. Stuart is the founder of Nineteen48 - an ethical gemstone company. He is a passionate advocate for this work and gives his time to teaching us how we can run more ethical businesses, what ethics means and specifically colored gemstones and their supply chain. I’m very excited to share this today, join us as we get into this topic.    EPISODE RECAP Introducing Stuart Pool (2:03) Let’s start by learning about the process of how we get a gemstone (3:21) How do we know what an ethical gemstone is? Is it about the mining being ethical or the whole process? Share your thoughts with us (7:58) Where can we see your ethical statement? (12:25) Every step is a step in the right direction (14:46) Let’s say we’ve made the decision we want to source ethical gemstones - how do we go about buying these stones? And is it possible to get less expensive stones? (16:43) You sell ethical gemstones - what kind of stones do you sell? (21:33) Ethical gemstones usually cost a little bit more but consumers seem to be asking for them (23:33) For me and a lot of people listening, it’s worth the price to help the industry move this direction of ethical gemstones (26:44) Think about your own values and what matters to you and build that into your business. This topic of ethical gemstones is a wonderful one to raise and talk about (29:53) As independent jewellers, are there things we can do in addition to sourcing ethical gemstones? (30:44) If people want to find out more, where can they go? (33:12)   RESOURCES Jewellers Academy Facebook Group Nineteen48  ethicalmaking.org  Nineteen48 Facebook Nineteen48 Instagram

Episode 2 of the Jewellers Academy podcast is all about change. The only inevitable thing in life is change. So how do we deal with it? Join me in conversation with jeweller and teacher Anna C Campbell. Anna started her career as a lecturer in Psychology and brings her unique background in psychology with her knowledge of working with creative business owners to discuss mindset shifts, being kind to ourselves, the power of gratitude and much more. EPISODE RECAP Welcome Anna C Campbell, the community manager at Jewellers Academy (0:53) Tell us a bit about your experience and how you know about change (3:02) What is the concept of change and how do you think about it as a psychologist? (4:35) What is the Change Cycle? (5:55) Sometimes people get stuck in one of these phases of the Change Cycle. What is happening there? Did they not give themselves time to grieve properly or is it all different things? (18:04) So much of this depends on the support networks you have around you, doesn’t it? (20:00) Are there any examples in your life when you have seen this cycle? (20:46) So once we’re flying, do we fly until we’re a caterpillar again? Seems like there’s more change coming all the time (22:46) How do we make decisions in times of change? (24:33) Tell us some resources if we want to learn more about this (31:24)   About Anna C Campbell Anna is a Mindset and Business Coach working with women solopreneurs who are brilliant employees but stall out when working for themselves. www.annaccampbell.com @annaccampbell on Instagram   RESOURCES Finding Your Way In A Wild New World - Martha Beck Feel the Fear And Do It Anyway - Susan Jeffers Books by Byron Katie Jewellers Academy Email List Anna C Campbell Instagram Jewellery School Scotland

This podcast is to help any designer, jeweller or handmade artist to grow a thriving business, to be able to support yourself through this passion craft you have and to learn about jewellery making. This is our first episode and we’re talking about how to use Instagram to grow your handmade business – a topic I am particularly passionate about. Join us as we kick off this podcast and dive into some practical tips for using Instagram. EPISODE RECAP Who is this podcast for? (0:59) How to use Instagram for your handmade business (1:57) Why Instagram? Why is it good for your jewellery business? (2:45) How to get started with Instagram and tips to get going (3:35) A few tips around Instagram stories (12:49) Why it’s important to make good use of your highlights (15:05) Some encouragement on what to expect and to keep going! (16:20) Try and share the best images possible (17:45) What to do about your captions (18:23) How to set up shop able links (21:25) Thank you for joining our first episode! (24:08)   RESOURCES Instagram: @JewellersAcademy Canva WeTransfer Collect by WeTransfer Planoly Later Free Course: Instagram for Jewellers