Reflection - Celebrating Six Years in Business at MONOLISA
November 9, 2023 marks the sixth anniversary of starting my business, MONOLISA. Each year, after taking some time to reflect, I write a blog article about the memories, lessons, and experiences from the year. This time, I thought it would be fun to share those moments through a "Questions and Answers" series. 2023 certainly brought many meaningful experiences and wonderful memories along the way. Let’s take a peek down memory lane.
- What was surprising that happened in 2023? "Discussing my dyslexia journey in my blog and on the podcast Dyslexia Explored."
- What was the hardest part of 2023? "Balancing my business life with unexpected personal responsibilities as I helped a family member."
- What was the most challenging show? "Fremont Art & Wine Festival was tough for a few reasons. The weather was extremely hot with no wind, which made it very uncomfortable at times. On Sunday morning, getting into the festival to park my van was difficult because there were cement barricades everywhere. After driving through a tight space and over a curb, I finally made it in. Loading out on Sunday was also challenging, with the hot sun beating down on me while I loaded bins into my van and dodged an old tree stump near the loading area. It definitely came with challenges, but on a positive note, it was a good show and I slept like a baby that night. I will be back next year. What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger!"
- The biggest lesson I learned this year? "Getting to shows even earlier than I normally do can make a real difference in finding a better parking spot. Arriving at 5:50 a.m. instead of 6:15 a.m. matters, so now I leave earlier for shows. Who cares about sleep!"
- What changes did I make to my studio this year? "I added some new Simon Bull art pieces that brightened my creative space and brought a sense of calm. I also purchased some beautiful new tools. I just love tools!"
- What is my favorite MONOLISA piece I created? "A gemstone ring."
- What new piece of equipment am I obsessed with? "My Orion pulse arc welding system. It allows me to create things I couldn’t do before with traditional soldering. It makes me really happy, and I love the microscope feature!"
- What was I most nervous about this year? "Doing my first podcast with Jessica Rose, the founder of The Jewellers Academy. Even though I prepared with lots of notes, I was still nervous. Sometimes I know what I want to say, but the words do not come out easily. I had also just returned from an out-of-town show, so I was exhausted."
- What was most fun about 2023? "Being at the shows, seeing customers, styling them, and catching up about life. I love watching when a customer connects instantly with a handbag or jewelry design."
- What was the most challenging writing project? "Without a doubt, the blog article Artist Life - Art & Dyslexia. In that article, I shared my latest self-discoveries and details about learning that I have dyslexia. I worked on that piece for several months and did some serious soul-searching. Writing takes me twice as long as it does for others because of my learning differences, but I was determined to do it. I was also honored that my story was featured on Dyslexia Advantage."
- If I could change anything about 2023, what would it be? "Mother Nature and the unbearable hot summer days."
- Favorite part about 2023? "Oh, that is so simple, seeing customers and being in my quiet studio creating."
- What am I most grateful for in 2023? "The continued customer support I receive. It allows me to do what I love doing, creating with my hands. Thank you so much to everyone!"
- What was the easiest part about 2023? "Just doing what I do, creating and going to shows."
- What will I not repeat in 2023? "I will stick with shows that are within a 100-mile range of my home. At this stage in my life, traveling too far is not for me, and I appreciate being home in the evenings."
"Thank you for taking the time to read my blog."
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