Approaching shops/galleries?

**Charlotte** · 11-08-2009, 07:01 AM

This is yet another part of the jewellery world which I have improvised, I have tried several different angles, but I think I will try sending a disk (of images) and a letter next time and see how that fares. How does everyone else approach shops/galleries?? What is the most professional way??

**bustagasket** · 11-08-2009, 07:33 AM

this is a very good question for wen i can do more

**caroleallen** · 11-08-2009, 07:52 AM

When you do a lot of shows some galleries will approach you, which makes life a lot easier. I hate approaching galleries myself.

**Di Sandland** · 11-08-2009, 08:27 AM

Jewellery is very competitive and I think the photogallery on disk is an excellent idea. I have to admit that it was my husband who approached galleries on behalv with my wood - I don't have the confidence in my work. Without fail the galleries were kind and any criticism was constructive. In the event I was only turned down by one gallery and that was because their stuff was more 'high' art.

Some galleries will ask that you work on a rota basis and will display your work 'free.' I did this in a local gallery, working every other Saturday. For some folk this could work quite well - especially if you don't have a full time job.

**kymbi** · 11-08-2009, 08:40 AM

I've not yet managed to approach any galleries or shops because I am just too scared. Don't know why because I've managed to sell my jewellery in Greenwich craft market 2 days a week for 4 years, but the thought of walking into a shop or gallery just fills me with fear

Any tips gratefully received...

**bustagasket** · 11-08-2009, 09:14 AM

Originally Posted by kymbi

I've not yet managed to approach any galleries or shops because I am just too scared. Don't know why because I've managed to sell my jewellery in Greenwich craft market 2 days a week for 4 years, but the thought of walking into a shop or gallery just fills me with fear

Any tips gratefully received...

Braver than me i am scared of selling full stop lol

**caroleallen** · 11-08-2009, 10:56 AM

Don't be scared. Any gallery that you'd like to be in (ie friendly) would be kind and either let you down gently or take your stuff. Ask around to find friendly galleries. I've only ever been turned down by one gallery and they were very nice about it.

**Coco** · 11-08-2009, 11:28 AM

Originally Posted by kymbi

Don't know why because I've managed to sell my jewellery in Greenwich craft market 2 days a week for 4 years,

Ooh, that sounds really fun - kinda scary though. Does it get really crowded in Greenwich market?

**AlexandraBuckle** · 11-08-2009, 01:36 PM

If I am able to pop in, I'll go maybe wearing a couple of pieces to quickly show them, if they like the pieces I make an appointment to go back with more work.

If there is no chance of me getting to the gallery/shop, I give them a ring to see how they prefer work to be submitted.
They normally ask to be emailed a few photos and prices.
You may have to follow up with another call as they might not get back to you otherwise.

Generally I've found people very approachable and polite - there is nothing to be scared about really. They seem to genuinely enjoy looking at the work.

**EmmaRose** · 11-08-2009, 08:45 PM

Just don't turn up in a gallery on spec. Some prefer printed material...perhaps send them a couple of postcards that they can look at quickly with a price scale to see if your work fits. Then do a follow up call and ask if you can make an appointment to show them your work.....
make sure you have a wholesale price list ready, be aware most galleries now work on sale or return......be aware it is not unknown for galleries to go bust and you not get your stock back or payment (like Jesse James)
Emma