Today we’d like to introduce you to Louise Loewenstein.
Louise, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The inspiration for the ZipBling line of jewelry came from a trip to South Africa and an immersion into native crafts. Many items I saw for sale began with recycled materials. I returned home and started to see everyday items in a new way. Suddenly it was possible to make the ordinary, extraordinary! ZipBling Jewelry grew from this exploration. As I worked with a variety of zipper pulls, the challenge became how to configure them so that it was not obvious what they were at first glance. When people realized my jewelry was made of zippers they were amused. Bringing a little whimsy into our world was reason enough to keep creating new designs.
For 30 years I have been a contemporary fiber artist, making baskets that expand the traditional image of this ancient craft. I learned Native American basketry techniques at classes in New Mexico when we spent 3 months living there. My baskets have evolved over the years to include materials like rubber tubes, exotic knitting yarns, and hairpins, plus a variety of buttons and beads. ENTWINED is the name of my basket business which captures my sentiments about this craft precisely.
My zippers are predominantly new YKK brand. All are guaranteed lead free. All the clasps I use are magnetic. I have been selling my jewelry for 10 years. Most of my necklaces and bracelets are one-of-a-kind.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Marketing my work is the biggest challenge. I feel my jewelry attracts a small niche market since it is so unusual. Over the years I have marketed it myself, hired a rep, done online sales through Uncommon Goods, and participated in local craft fairs, trunk shows and house parties. Many marketing successes occurred when we traveled. I made appointments at museums and boutiques which meant my work traveled to New York Texas, Ohio, California, Wisconsin, Arizona, Vermont, Connecticut, and Holland. I do all aspects of the business except the photographs and the website which my husband does.
When I sell my own merchandise, I notice it takes a while to develop customers since my jewelry is so different. I am always greeted by smiles when people stop by my booth because they are amused and delighted with my creativity. Known fondly as “The Zipper Lady” at fairs has led to many new customers! When I see former customers I am greeted with stories of what happens when they wear ZipBling.
When I sell my work I highlight several reasons to own ZipBling Jewelry: It is great travel jewelry since it engenders such wonderful reactions. Also, no one would steal it! Wearing a ZipBling necklace creates a buzz. I have been stopped by salespeople, in line at theater, on an airplane or subway, and just walking on a busy street. I have received emails from men who loved my work and let me know that their wives, girlfriends, or mothers loved the ZipBling they received. I am pleased that I have such satisfied customers.
Zipbling Jewelry – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am basically a one person operation! I buy everything, create everything, and mostly market my wares. This is a part time project for me. Although I love creating jewelry, I would be more successful in terms of selling more of my work if someone handled the marketing. Although I have a website it has not engendered a lot of new business, since it is hard for someone to imagine my work if they haven’t seen it in person. Since it is unique it is somewhat inaccessible. Reps find it hard to market it because it is different from traditional jewelry lines.
I have several friends who work in related areas that I consider mentors and their advice has been helpful over the years.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Satisfied customers! Repeat customers! Creating new designs.
Pricing:
- Necklaces: $85 -$200
- Bracelets: $70 – $110
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ZipBlingJewelry.com
- Phone: 617-610-1598
- Email: Louise@ZipBlingJewelry.com
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