Having your own indie brand can be really awesome at times. But most of the time it's really hard. And not just hard, it can be downright lonely. Especially when you're the sole owner of said indie brand. I've got to be self-motivated and always pushing forward, which is really hard to do when you've had the absolute worst month of sales. I hate talking about these things publicly, but right now I just need to get it out (will probably delete this post later when I'm feeling happier).
I took such a long time, and so much time away from my other work to get Lollipop Parade finished because... I thought it'd be worth it. I truly thought I was making a good choice in focusing all my time, energy, and putting what little money I have into making it a reality. I thought it would all pay off in the end. But I may have been wrong.
At this point in time I can't say whether or not I'll be doing a line for the winter. I really, really want to, but the way things are going now, it's not looking like a possibility. I was planning on making it twice as big as Lollipop Parade, which means that much more money, time, and effort. And frankly, I don't think I have it in me. And the way things are going now, I know I won't have the money for it.
It's times like these when I just feel like giving up, closing shop, and getting a "real" job (which for me, means retail). This is a nightmare to have to consider that, and I simply can't do it. And it's not because I'm spoiled and need everything handed to me. When I'm working in retail I want to kill myself. I can't go back there, making minimum wage. I'll die if I have to do that. Elegy is my dream, and when it's doing good, it validates my dream. When it's doing bad, well it makes me want to give up.
Also, I'm not just being shallow and impatient. I know the economy goes up and down and things come up, etc. But having only one sale in a week is pretty pathetic... even for me.
I'm sure I won't get any comments, because I never do. But I'd love to hear why you think I should keep Elegy going?
You should keep Elegy going! I love looking at your work all the time because I think they're absolutely beautiful and I can see that you put a lot of thought and effort into what you do. :)
ReplyDeleteLike you said, Elegy validates your dream when it's doing well. Even if those moments feel short, don't you think it's worth working for? I'm sure that having your own brand is difficult but if, correct me if I'm wrong, this is really something that you truly enjoy doing then please, continue! I (and many others) would feel sad to see you close. :(
In the end, it's all up to you. But, please, try not to give up! I would love to own something made by you one day (once I have enough funds ^^;)!
Aw, thank you so much! ♡ It's amazing how simple words can make me really feel so much better ^_^ I don't think I'll actually be closing up shop anytime soon, it's just that when things are sucking bad, it makes me feel like, "what's the point?!" And you are correct - it's definitely worth it. ♥
DeleteAnd I'd love to create something for you, someday!
I know how you feel I'm working on my own brand as well and it's very slow hard work with a seldom immediate satisfaction, but you can't give up.
ReplyDeleteThis may sound super cheezy, but I'm a fan of yours, It's super uplifting to see someone else with the same/a similar dream making it happen. you inspire me to not give up and I want to encourage you to do the same, keep holding on. dreams no matter the struggle are worth it.
Not to mention you are amazing and what you do is amazing, to think those pieces are made by hand instead of in a factory wow, they don't look like they are made by hand, but you can see that there is something special about each piece. I know if I could afford it I would love to have one of your pieces.
I feel like I'm talking in circles now so I'll stop, but just don't give up, sales will pick up. Don't stop believing in your dreams and your ability to make them a reality
Aw, thank you so much! I know I'm replying to this a bit late, but I read your comment soon after you posted it. It really helped a lot and made me feel a lot better about what I do - I really had no idea I was such an inspiration/role model for others ♡
DeleteIt's nice to hear from someone else who may be in a similar situation as I am, or at least trying to achieve goals similar to mine. Sometimes it feels so lonely chasing dreams like this, but it's nice to know that... I'm really not ♡
I won't be giving up! I really feel like it sometimes, but I know I could never forgive myself if I did~