[Jewelry making - Article 00697] - Re: [Orchid] Retail orders?

[Dawn Hale]

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    I hope you wont find my posting too pessimistic but I will give you
    my experience. 

    1) When I first began designing and manufacturing my line of jewelry
    I was told over and over that new designers are notoriously known for
    their failure to deliver. While retailers are excited to discover new
    talent, they are cautious when working with first time designers.  My
    opening orders were for small quantities.  After I was more
    established I was able to set my own minimums.  But first time orders
    were not huge. 

    2) My experience with Neiman's, Saks, Bergdorf's etc. was that they
    are now all gearing up to 100% consignment sales.  In addition to
    that, stores like Saks expect vendors to pay for pages in their
    catalogues at $25,000 per page. 

    3) Buyers usually look at least four times a year, for each season
    of the year, they of course are 6 to 9 months ahead or even one year
    ahead. 

    4) I ask for 4 to 6 weeks for delivery.  But often I am given more
    time than that, as I am working with catalogues, museums ect. months
    before expected delivery. 

    5) All ordering depends on demand.  And in this market demand has
    slowed down considerably. 

    6) As for approaching buyers, contact as many people as you can. 
    Individual boutiques, department heads, anyone you may have a
    connection with. But be forewarned.  You may be rejected A LOT! 

    7) As was already said, buyers are wary of new designers, the
    economy is down, etc.And, if you do get big orders do your homework
    before hand.  How will you produce large quantities? How long will it
    take YOU? Be realistic with your promises and pricing, I priced an
    order for 400 gold pendants when gold was $275 per ounce, but by the
    time I manufactured the pieces for delivery gold cost me $375! I'll
    now build gold price fluctuations into my pricing. 

    8) It is a tough market out there but I wouldn't give it up, so my
    last wish for you is lots of luck!


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