one last note

I got an email asking that I re-emphasize the fact that you must analyze your financials closely...you have to have a good grasp on where you are spending money, and where/if you are making money. it's essential. you may get a huge order for your product, but still be in the red. you also have to know how much each piece/service costs you to provide, so you'll know if you're charging enough. when i get gemstones in, i divide the cost of the stones including shipping, taxes, etc, so i know exactly how much each stone costs me to use. if you own a cleaning business, you need to figure out your costs per mile to travel, costs for cleaning supplies, wear & tear on your equipment...anything that makes it possible for you to do your job. don't forget phone bills and computer/internet, also. the first time i did a show, someone offered me $65 for a very intricate, heavily beaded sterling silver necklace. (it's poor form to try to negotiate at a gallery, by the way). i knew to the penny how much that necklace had cost me in materials, never mind time. so the necklace had been priced appropriately, and i explained that to the gentleman. had i not known, i may have been thrilled to have a sale of any kind, and gone for it. "mind the bodega," as my aunt used to say.