The BEST Business Thing I Own.
There is alot of love in my studio (and heart) for my clients just now. The support shown to me during my sale last week fills me with gratitude. My client list (also known as mailing list) is something I would run into a burning building for.
What begins with three simple contact details (name, surname and email address) can become something more solid sooner than we might think. I’ve come to know details personally from writing them on parcels over the years. People returning to buy things from me again and again.
These names and addresses are tattooed on my heart and on my studio wall!
Relationships happen naturally; they can’t be forced.
For me it happens a little like this.
Let’s say that a number of years ago I did a school fair, a live drawing event or any art related in-person social. At the event, I may well have taken enough money to wash my face (meaning that I took enough to cover my travel, art materials, and costs) but perhaps very little profit. But, what I did garner - and enthuse about to those newer in the industry of making and selling to me - is gaining contact details from buyers, interested parties, and those I enjoy a chat with during the event. First name, surname, email address.
Because this is where the real relationships begin and blossom over time.
This seems obvious, I know, but I thought it was worth reiterating.
If reading this makes you want to weep that you don’t have one, PUHLEESE know that it’s never (ever) too late to begin.
Here are some thoughts:
Begin your list with your mum, aunty, your aunt’s next door neighbour, your bezzie mates details.
Start your list in a lovely new notebook that you will keep safe - yes, old skool is fine - no digital list is needed for now. Make a different one-page list for each event separately, then spend a little time copying them out in your notebook. These names will be in your life for a long time to come and it’s good to get to know them a bit.
Remember to envisage the number of people on your list sitting around your kitchen table. 10 - 15 people is alot. NEVER get disheartened.
Keep adding at each event, you will be through that notebook in a flash.
Just one more note to add*
Don’t get disheartened by unsubscribes (when people unsubscribe themselves from you list) It’s entirely natural and never, ever personal. People drift in and out of our lives ❤️
Much love
Sam x
