Trade Show Series (cont.) Guest - The Indomitable Sara Aho Lukkonen

Our last installment of Trade Show Series with Guests: Pat Riesenburger, Kate McKinnon, Andrew Thornton, Wendy Baker, Yvonne Irvin, Michael Burns, Marianne Kasparian, Nikia Angel and Marsha Hedrick.

First, I would like to thank Tamara Allison of The Vanishing Pearl for her help (well, she wrote them all? so help is not a very good description?) and Stephanie Haussler of Pixybug Designs for her suggestions. . . without them, we would not and could not have done this series.

Secondly, thank you to all of our guests – even with the wonderful questions and suggestions by Wendy and Tamara, without the answers of the guests – there wouldn’t have been anything to read? They took time out of their extremely busy schedules to try and shed some much needed light on the bead trade industry – we got answers – we got hope – we got humor and we’re done!

So here is our last guest – Sara Aho Lukkonen of C-Koop Beads!

The Sara I know. . . 

8. Can you share tips for increasing sales:

Always greet your customers.  Not only does this start a sale but it also helps make them aware that you are watching them. I always try to have new products at each of the major shows.  It brings the regulars back to see what is new.  I don’t want them walking by because they have seen everything before. 

9. Outside of shows, how do you market yourself or your brand:

I wholesale to stores.  It gets my product out there to the everyday beaders.  I started my business by going to stores and getting my products out there.  I think that it really made a big difference for me because then people recognized my products when they come to shows.  Also I have been really blessed by the designers submitting their designs to the magazines.

10. Do you use a standard setup for every show you attend or do you adjust your setup for each show:

I pretty much set up the same way every time.  The returned buyers recognize the display and they always think something is new. It is also an easy set up and take down.  It is all about getting out of the show in a timely manner!   I try to be efficient because my time is worth something too!

11. OPTIONAL: What reason would you give your clients for attending shows as a buyer, even if you were not a vendor:

There might be something new out there you just have to have.  Going to shows can bee inspiring!

12. OPTIONAL: What makes you continue to attend shows as a vendor – i.e. money, marketing, social networking:

Some sows are going to better than others.  If I continue to make money at a show then I am going to come back.  But mostly I attend shows to get the new accounts.  Stores are going to buy at the show and continue to buy through the year. Getting new accounts at a show makes it a success.

13. OPTIONAL: If you hire outside help, how do you find them - any info would be appreciated.

I do most of the shows by myself.  But when I am at some of the bigger shows I bring my Mom.  In fact she is the reason I go to the shows out west.  Other vendors look for her at the shows….she is the best Mom in the world and I feel blessed that she wants to spend time with me too. Also the show promoters or someone in the staff that knows you may have a list of people that want to work.

14. Additional comments:

Keep true to yourself.  Don’t let other people tell you how to run your business.  Believe me they will try. Try to stay one step ahead of the designers. Make things that they don’t know they want yet. Smile and have fun!

And with those words of wisdom - we end our series on Trade Shows. Thank you again - to all our guests and Tamara Allison and Stephanie Haussler. 

Find Sara and all her wonderful gadgets at C-Koop Beads.

Stay tuned. We're working on another series and we've got some FUN in store - like prizes and trivia and more! 

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Trade Show Series - Guest - Indomitable Sara Aho Lukkonen

Recently, I’ve been seeing articles, interviews and features on Sara’s work in almost every issue of every bead magazine published. It’d be easy to assume that her secret is out – but as a designer – I’ve loved Sara’s work for ages, I’m sure you have too. If you’ve ever thought you could read a person from what they create – it certainly holds true with Sara.

Her creations are quirky (Sara’s quirky) – colorful (Sara is more so) – ever changing (Sara’s a variable cornucopia of fun, swift wit and drive) – her creations scream “talent” and once you use any of her tiny, enameled treasures – you’re hooked! Just like when you meet Sara – hooked, line and sinker! She’s last in our Trade Show Series but she’s certainly not least! Meet the Indomitable force -Sara Aho Lukkonen . . . 

1. What brand do you fall under (if any): Independent Jewelry Artist, Business Owner; Artisan and/or other:

I fall under Artisan, business owner & manufacturer.  I don’t think of myself as an artist -  I think of my self as a chemist, but that would not be a category for jewelry business.

2. What type of Trade Shows do you attend as a vendor (not buyer) and how many shows do you attend:

I like the bead society shows the best.  But I do ~8 national shows a year and a handful of the society shows.  I also teach in stores and have trunks shows at the same time and then there are the absentee trunk shows.  So, with all of those types of shows probably ~40 shows a year.

3. How far in advance do you plan for each show (i.e. inventory, advertising, hotels):

Inventory is ongoing.  It can be quite the challenge having enough inventories for the Absentee trunk shows and enough for the trade show.  I don’t advertise for shows I will list them on my website, but I don’t always keep up with that. I pretty much stay in the same hotel chain for shows.  I just tell my husband the dates and he makes the reservations.  One less thing for me to do!

Squish Beads

4. What type of advertising do you use, if any:

In 2010 I decided to blast the magazines with advertising.  I advertised in most of the trade magazines out there.  I don’t think that it made a huge difference in sales.  But I did not track it either.  The best advertising for me is to be published by the editors and other designers and get in the product listing.  Also being at the shows is probably the best advertising because they can touch & see the product.

5. Do you have any tips to prevent loss/theft at shows:

I know that at every show something will get stolen.  I have quite a bit of small components. I am usually the only one at the booth so I do the best I can.  If people need to play that game it will catch up to them someday.

6. Do you have a timeline for when and how to apply for tax permits or certifications for other states? And a good way to keep up with multiple permits and tax payment deadlines:

It is part of doing business.  I just have to make sure that I file accordingly with each state.  I like the states that have the license at the show and you either pay for it there or send it in within 30 days of the show.  Most of the taxes are due on the 20^th of the month so set the calendar alarm!

7. What suggestions do you have for display ideas that meet both convention center guidelines and fire marshal specifications:

Everyone has a different idea on presentation of products.  I found what works best for me and continue to set up pretty much the same way.  Paying attention to the fire marshal rules is important because you could have to tear down your whole booth and start over!

Like what you see of Sara's answers to our Trade Show Questions - tune in September 20th for the remainder of her answers and the LAST part of our series on Trade Shows and the artists - vendors who attend them. . .

You can find Sara and her work at C-Koop Beads

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Trade Show Series -(cont.) Guest - Renaissance Man Andrew Thornton

Resuming our Trade Show series blog with Andrew Thornton’s responses to questions posed by Tamara Allison of Vanishing Pearl and Stephanie Haussler of Pixybug Designs. If you missed the beginning – catch up now!

I often think of the quote from Maya Angelou when I think of Andrew Thornton:

People will forget what you said,

People will forget what you did,

But people will never forget

how you made them feel.

5. Do you have any tips to prevent loss/theft at shows:

You can't watch your table every second of the day. There will come a time where you have to get something out from under the table or behind the booth and in that fraction of an instant, someone can come by and steal your work. This shouldn't be too off putting, because generally our community is made up of really honest and caring people. However, to reduce those moments of temptation, I usually put the most inexpensive stuff at the corners of the tables and keep the more pricey items closer to me. If something is really pricey, I'll tape or wire it down to the table. Vendors usually stick together and will flag each other if a known shoplifter comes in.

6. Do you have a timeline for when and how to apply for tax permits or certifications for other states? And a good way to keep up with multiple permits and tax payment deadlines:

I try to do as little paperwork as possible! I don't usually do much of the tax work. I will say, for the limited amount of stuff that I do end up doing, that each State usually has a information available online to help keep things straight and a good old fashioned large calendar, where you can write in it and add Post-It Notes is invaluable!

7. What suggestions do you have for display ideas that meet both convention center guidelines and fire Marshall specifications:

When thinking of displays, I try to think of pieces that will be lightweight, durable, work as storage and protect other pieces from damage during transit. Having decorative travel cases is nice, because they meet all my criteria and can be moved, stacked and changed easily to accommodate any space AND it gives it a sort of ambiance!

8. Can you share tips for increasing sales:

I actually try not to think about this too much. I know that when one is attending a trade show as a seller, one of course wants to sell things and make a living off of what they are doing, but the best sales are usually made through a genuine connection. We don't sell things that we don't believe in and on that fundamental level, I can be an advocate for what I'm doing and trying to sell. We put a lot of ourselves into the work, so it's not so much a question of selling as it is of sharing these parts of us with the world.

9. Outside of shows, how do you market yourself or your brand:

I think you sort of have to create a way for your customers to connect with you outside of the shows. So "marketing" is definitely something that has to happen consistently and constantly.

Like what you've read? Tune in September 13th for the conclusion of Andrews' answers to our Trade show questions.

In the meantime - find Andrew at Andrews' Blog

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Trade Show Series -Guest - Renaissance Man Andrew Thornton

I’ve already written about Andrew in July, 2010. If you care to see what I wrote originally, check it out: My Friend Andrew Thornton.

It’s a rainy dreary day in Bartlesville, the perfect time to write about Andrew. At the end of Pat's blog, I intro'd Andrew as a "man who changed my life."  How, you ask – can one man, met so infrequently – change your life?  Andrew came into my life at a very tough time – just losing my grandmother, my dog, my cat. . . I was full of grief. Broken.

 Andrew in a way only Andrew can (if you’ve met him, you’ll know) –and just being Andrew – pulled me in with his sharp wit, dry sense of humor and tale telling. I have to say, I looked for excuses to pass his booth, linger over his Green Girl treasures, hoping he’d exchange mindless banter with me. Talking Twinkies and Twilight gave me something else to dwell on and look forward to – rather than the screeching of my broken heart.

Thank you Andrew, for helping heal my invisible wounds and thank you for selflessly participating in our blog series. . . part one of Andrew Thornton, starts here:

I love this smile - he has like 20 more different smiles - but this is one of my favorites

1. What brand do you fall under (if any): Independent Jewelry Artist, Business Owner; Artisan and/or other:

I'm in an interesting position, where I fall under all of the various titles. I feel like I've had to wear a lot of hats to keep this creative castle afloat. I have a Fine Arts degree from the School of Visual Arts in New York City, work with my family at Green Girl Studios, have my own online Shop, and will be opening a physical location soon!

2. What type of Trade Shows do you attend as a vendor (not buyer) and how many shows do you attend:

I primarily attend bead shows and craft shows. At the height, I was going to about 26 shows a year – pretty much every other weekend.

One of Andrews' artworks

3. How far in advance do you plan for each show (i.e. inventory, advertising, hotels):

For the larger shows, we generally start right after the previous one ends. It allows us to stay innovative and creative and do all the business work that needs to happen. I will say that, just because of the very nature of the shows and companies, a lot of times we have to wait until the last minute to get the best deals. Also, advertising is best done in increments with a concentration the week before the show.

4. What type of advertising do you use, if any:

Green Girl Studios does a lot of different kinds of advertising. One of the biggest, most solid examples is that we advertise in many of the jewelry-making magazines. But we also keep our blogs and social media pages going, and rely a lot on word of mouth.

Like what you've read so far, tune in 9/9/2011 for more Andrew.

Find Andrew here - Andrew's Blog  Shop with Andrew   Shop Green Girl

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Trade Show Series (cont.) Guest - The Sparkling Pat Riesenburger

A continuation of Pat's sparkling personality shining through in her answers to our Trade Show Series on how to become a large venue trade show.

Pat made this shirt!

8. Can you share tips for increasing sales:

I have had good luck with packaging special product mixes that offer customers a broad selection for one low price.  Additionally, I like to have an expansive range of price points so as to take advantage of any and all impulse purchases.   I always advertise a big giveaway so as to grow my email list.  While this does not impact show sales, a large email list sure does impact my “after show” sales.   I also endeavor to be a walking billboard for my product line-----killer jewelry is always a must!  Finally, I like to do demonstrations…they attract attention and interest while giving me something –other than the weather or some other inane topic---to talk about!  Someone who might have simply walked by the booth will be inclined to stop—and buy--- if I am teaching a technique or two.

9.Outside of shows, how do you market yourself or your brand:

Blogging is a big part of it, as are free tutorials and videos.  I try to stay active on social media---it is so important! I am diligent about sending out customer E-newsletters---I couldn’t stay in business without them!

One of Pat's adoptee's - Cooper!

10. Do you use a standard setup for every show you attend or do you adjust your setup for each show:

I haven’t done enough shows to have a standard set up yet!

11. OPTIONAL: What reason would you give your clients for attending shows as a buyer, even if you were not a vendor:

Trend watch!!!!

Stunning Fiber work! 

12. Optional: What makes you continue to attend shows as a vendor – i.e. money, marketing, social networking:

Shows have not been big money makers for me if I look only at the show receipts.  I do them for the exposure…there is a heck of a lot of residual.  It gives me an opportunity to build my e-mail list, enables me to touch base with other vendors (who often become good friends), and keeps me abreast of the industry.  Trade shows are CRITICAL!

Like what you’ve read? Find Pat’s blog The Crafty Retailer

Our next guest – a man who changed my life – Andrew Thornton.

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Trade Show Series (cont.) Guest - The Sparkling Pat Riesenburger

I've never "met" Pat. We've chatted, e-mailed and Facebook'd for years. I feel like I know her but I've never actually met her. And if you put a gun to my head, I'd be hard pressed to find a ONE single word that describes her - she's a mother, an innovator, an entrepreneur, a wife, a newly crowned Swarovski Ambassador, a crafter, a thrifter, a comic, an animal devotee, a gardener, foodie, home decorator (running out of breath) and a friend...one of those real friends - you know you can count on - that you know is listening, no - hearing you when you talk and one of the few who accepts you for who you are...not who they need you to be. . . 
And even though I've not met Pat, she's actually created two of the most memorable moments of my life. I'm so very proud to include her in my very intimate circle of people I "tag" as friends and I thank her for the valuable lessons I've learned in the short time I've known her. And here she is - Pat Riesenburger:

Yep, It's really Pat Ain't she cute?? 

1. What brand do you fall under (if any):

Artist, Teacher, Business Owner

2. What type of Trade Shows do you attend as a vendor (not buyer) and how many shows do you attend:

My show experience has been somewhat limited as I have not been inclined to spend time away from my kids.  I have been a vendor at To Bead True Blue (Tucson) and TNNA . I am hoping to expand my horizons in 2012.  My nest is will soon be empty as my youngest is heading off to college.  I imagine that I will be more free to travel at that point!

Pat's jewelry

3. How far in advance do you plan for each show (i.e. inventory, advertising, hotels):

About 8 months before a show I start to “noodle it around” by loosely contemplating product, display ideas etc.  Things start to get a bit more serious at the six month point, which is when I must commit to product if it is to be available for the show.

4.What type of advertising do you use, if any:

I rely on the promoters for most of the advertising and have been pleased with their efforts.  I also promote the event on my blog and on my website, as well as through e-newsletters.

5. Do you have any tips to prevent loss/theft at shows:

I am probably too cavalier with respect to loss prevention.  I tend to adopt a “your karma is on YOU” attitude and assume that folks will behave responsibly.  I am not one of those who ties down display samples.  There is always some degree of …ahem…attrition….but I chalk it up to a cost of doing business.

Pat's Thrift finds

6.Do you have a timeline for when and how to apply for tax permits or certifications for other states? And a good way to keep up with multiple permits and tax payment deadlines:

Ummm….Errrr…[I am blushing here…..]….basically I show up at the venue and wait for all of the tax people to track me down.  They always do!

7.What suggestions do you have for display ideas that meet both convention center guidelines and fire Marshall specifications:

It is always a challenge to STAND OUT in a sea of color and glitz.  I am the queen of “decorating on a dime” and one of my favorite tricks is to hunt for large framed pictures at thrift stores, never spending more than a dollar or two. I throw away the paintings and keep the frames, which I spray paint black.  I then staple black chicken wire to the back of the frame and VOILA!  I have the perfect display for my hand dyed fibers!  I simply weave the wool in and out of the chicken wire and hang the “artwork” in my booth.  It is cheap, easy, and attracts a whole lot of attention.

If you love what you read - find Pat at the links below:
Urban Stitch Studio - retail
Aussie Threads and Fibers -wholesale only
The Crafty Retailer - blog


See the rest of Pat's answers September 2nd, 2011


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Trade Show Series - Guest - Unflappable Kate McKinnon

Admittedly, to this day - I've still not had a conversation with Kate that lasted more than five sentences - I'm such a fan of her work that I freeze up just trying to form a sentence (I tend to sound more like a female version of Lennie Small – “tell me about the rabbits, George”). I do know that I admire her prolific artworks, her writing style and her energy is out of this world. And I've always wanted to say "Here's Kate - Kate McKinnon that is...

Kate McKinnon

7. What suggestions do you have for display ideas that meet both convention center guidelines and fire marshall specifications:

Just be sure to have visible signage, preferably hung high. That's the most important thing for being found. Display isn't my strong point, but I know that I love booths best that have good ones. Display superstars in my world include ZoaArt, Gail Crosman Moore, JC Herrell, Susan Lenart Kazmer, Beyond Beadery, and Cathy Collister of Glass Garden. They are all genius at showing what they sell.

One of Kate's artworks

8. Can you share tips for increasing sales:

Make what you love, and then pay attention to the people who show you the courtesy of looking at it. I deeply dislike buying from people who are there simply to sell me as much as possible. I buy little to nothing from people like that. I spend my money at the booths of people who are there because being there is a function of making the work that they love. I buy from people I like, people who seem real, people who seem like they are actually seeing me as a human being. People whose work strikes me as real. And when it comes to buying from shops- I can get seed beads or fixins anywhere. I buy from the actual people I love and want to support. It's all about the quality of life experience for me. I would never buy from a person or a shop that I didn't like.

My friend Cynthia von Buhler has a quote on her website that I think is really great- "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice."

9. Outside of shows, how do you market yourself or your brand:

I am very active online. I write in my blog every day. I use Facebook to connect with people, not to sell things. But being there helps people remember me and find my blog, my shop, and the other people I admire and want to support. If I would remember to sign all of my work, that would be a wonderful thing for marketing as well.

10. Do you use a standard setup for every show you attend or do you adjust your setup for each show:

I have a few good pieces, like an Abstracta frame display, a collapsible earring rack, and a few slotted wooden trays, and I take them everywhere. I like halogen desk lamps for my lighting- tracks and poles are a huge hassle to fly with. But if I drove to shows, I would have that too. I always wish I was better at display. My favorite setups are those I can do at home or close to home- antique wooden vanity boxes with mirrors, vintage lamps with delicate shades, statues of Godzilla.

11. OPTIONAL: What reason would you give your clients for attending shows as a buyer, even if you were not a vendor:  The reasons to attend a show are always the same, to see what's out there, and hopefully buy at a discount. 

Groovy Cuff

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12. Optional: What makes you continue to attend shows as a vendor – i.e. money, marketing, social networking:

The only thing that keeps me going to shows is to spend quality time with fellow artists and clients. It's exhausting, expensive, uncertain, and takes a huge amount of time to do a show. I can always make as much money online, with a web sale, as I can at a show. But if I don't go to shows, I don't see my peers, my friends, I don't get to meet the people personally who choose my work. For me, the circle of making isn't complete until the piece has found its person. I like to be there for that moment, and that's what shows are all about.

Like what you’ve read – find Kate and buy her one-of-a-kind pieces here

Next up – Pat Riesenburger of Urban Stitch,(retail) Aussie Threads and Fibers (wholesale only) and The Crafty Retailer (blog)

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Trade Show Series - Guest - Effervescent Marianne Kasparian

I hate admitting that my favorite part of the Trade Show Series blogs has been describing my personal relationship with each guest. Marianne Kasparian is no exception - as far as I'm concerned she's the rule.  How can someone be the rule and not the exception? As a rule, we should aspire to be like her! Simply stated - she's effervescent - she's contagious - she's strikingly beautiful - humble - gracious - sincere - frank and the quality I found most appealing about her - she listens when you talk. 


When you're with her - you feel like you're her only client, which is as far from the truth as I can possibly stretch it. Marianne (or MAK as her friends call her) is an amazing RAKU artist. She manages to mold stoneware clay, nails, staples, glaze into stunning creations of art - ready to add to anything-especially jewelry. While I could write an entire blog post about MAK - I'll let her speak for herself...here she is - Marianne Kasparian of MAKU Studio.

Marianne Kasparian

1. What brand do you fall under (if any): Independent Jewelry Artist, Business Owner; Artisan and/or other: 

All of the above! I suppose that I am a raku artist who makes jewelry when I have time. Though I wouldn't technically "brand" myself as a business owner, I have to be one to make all this work!

2. What type of Trade Shows do you attend as a vendor (not buyer) and how many shows do you attend:

I still consider myself relatively new in the trade show world. I am currently a vendor at 2 bead shows...Bead and Button Show and the To Bead True Blue (and The Tucson Bead Show which runs back to back with the To Bead True Blue show...so, I count that as one show). I also do a couple of smaller craft fairs in my area. I would like to add 1-2 trade shows in the future as my son gets older and can help me with the shows!

3. How far in advance do you plan for each show (i.e. inventory, advertising, hotels):

I'm trying to get better at planning...definitely not my forte! I probably start stressing/planning about 3 months in advance!

4. What type of advertising do you use, if any:

I have done a little print advertising (magazines) in the past, but currently mainly "advertising" (not paid for) on facebook and twitter. Social networking and word of mouth are amazing!

MAK's heart

5. Do you have any tips to prevent loss/theft at shows:

Make sure and greet every customer and fill holes as soon as pieces are sold.

6. Do you have a timeline for when and how to apply for tax permits or certifications for other states? And a good way to keep up with multiple permits and tax payment deadlines:

I can't wait to read what others have to say about this! All I can say is to just do it. Be timely in order to avoid penalties!

7. What suggestions do you have for display ideas that meet both convention center guidelines and fire marshall specifications:

What works for me is keeping it simple.

Like MAK's answers' - tune in 8/16/2011 for the rest of her guest appearance.

Want to see more of MAK's work? MAKU Studio

Follow   MAKU on Facebook   

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The Care and Feeding of Booth Elves - Guest - AJ Reardon

When you read the title of this blog you were probably thinking:

or perhaps....

But...to accurately read AJ's guest blog post you need to picture this:

If you're a vendor traveling to a trade show, you may find yourself in need of additional help to man your booth. Drawing from my 11 years of experience as a elf at the Tucson Gem Shows, I'm here to provide you with some helpful tips on how to find and keep a loyal employee who will stay with you for years.

First you have to find someone who you trust and can spend anywhere from a day to two weeks working with. Friends of existing employees are a good resource and loyal customers are even better, because they already know your product and will probably be willing to take at least part of their pay in trade.

If at all possible, try to find someone local. I live in Tucson, which has made me a popular booth elf. If you bring in someone from out of town, you have to pay for their transportation, lodging and meals. A local elf not only has their own home to go to at night and can provide other valuable tips while you're in their town. 

Once you've decided on someone, be sure to ask them as soon as possible. My vendor employers usually tell me at the end of the show if they'll want me back next year, then we reconfirm a few months before the show comes up. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that all of the good employees will already have secured employment.

Now that you've found a booth elf, discuss the details of the job. It's good to clarify ahead of time what hours they'll be working, duties and of course, their pay. Be specific with job duties - confusion creates a bad working environment. 

During the show, there are a few things you can do to elevate yourself to the level of “cool boss.” It's nice to treat your employee to lunch at least once during the show, and/or dinner is also a good perk! If the show is slow enough that your booth elf has some free time, allow them a chance to go shop – especially if you're at a bead show and they're a beader. Giving your elf a discount if they choose to take their pay in trade instead of money is another good bonus.

The most important thing is to treat your booth elf with respect and a friendly attitude. They may just be working for you for a short time, but they deserve the same treatment as your regular employees. They'll remember if you treat them poorly, and you'll lose not just a valuable temporary employee, but possibly a customer as well.

Bonus! Tips for potential booth elves:

If you'd like to work at a show, spread the word around. First ask the vendor(s) that you'd specifically like to work for, and if they don't need you, they'll at least remember you if a fellow vendor asks them if they know anyone.

Once you have a job, treat it as seriously as you'd treat a regular day job. Show up on time, obey your boss, and be respectful towards the customers... even the really annoying ones who smell funny. You may only be working for a weekend, but your employer relies on their business for their income year-round, so don't do anything that would damage their standing with their customers.

Don't be afraid to negotiate a bit. If there are hours you specifically can't work due to a previous commitment, or if you'd like to have an hour somewhere during the show to shop, bring it up politely to your employer and see what you can work out.

When both the vendor and the booth elf approach the relationship with respect and a good attitude, it can be the start of a beautiful arrangement. I have several previous employers that I still think of fondly; the only reason that I don't work for them anymore is that they don't come to Tucson anymore. My current boss is an absolute peach and I always look forward to working in her booth. You too can have (or be) a loyal, hardworking booth elf!

(The Hole Bead Shoppe Note: We met AJ in Tucson at Beyond Beadery - it was immediately apparent that AJ was a well seasoned Tucson Gem Show attendee and her quick wit, enthusiastic love of all things bead were infectious and we fell in love with her. You can find AJ's work at:

AJ's Etsy Shop

AJ's Blog

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