Of course we hope these are good things; a new relationship, a new job. For a sales rep there is nothing better than getting a new line that breathes life into your business. For a retailer, that new line can have the same results!8 years ago I had a decent assortment of jewelry and handbags but didn't have any particular line that called clients to my attention. I had only been in the business 3 years at that time and had not yet built a reputation. So, imagine my surprise one January day in 2001 when I arrived home to a message from Marjorie Baer, a literal icon in the jewelry industry. As I listened to her message I remember myself falling back into my office chair with my jaw dropped. A client had recommended ME to represent HER as she had just recently parted ways with her rep. Within 30 minutes of returning her call I was hired. I had to pinch myself to believe it! And the staggering number of clients that came with it was incredible!
Marjorie's career began on the steps of The Museum of Modern Art in New York. It was there that she began selling her handcrafted metal creations that are now so well known. I had the opportunity to travel to her factory in San Francisco later that first year and what an amazing experience! I was shown every step of the way what goes into the creation of a jewelry line. From the drawing board to the final product, each step is a 100% hand crafted process.
Utilizing brass, silver plate and copper Marjorie's creations of contemporary mixed metal jewelry has yet to be duplicated by anyone. Season after season her creative flow never wavers! A few weeks ago I received nearly 40 new boards of collections (not only is her jewelry fantastic, her presentation is too!). I could only marvel at her talent as she does this 4-5 times a year!
With the economic struggles we have all seen in the past year, it's wonderful to work with a designer that understands high fashion doesn't always have to equal high prices. This current collections heftiest price has a tag of $35. With average prices ranging from $12-$25, it's no wonder clients range from art museums to boutiques; gift galleries to department stores. Women from 18-80 always find styles they love and can afford.
The designs are timeless and can be dressed up or down and in my case, slept in! Her two tone pieces are a favorite among clients and the availability of clip earrings fills a huge gap in the market (yes, there are many women who do not have pierced ears!). Marjorie has covered all the bases which certainly explains her continued popularity. Every summer at a local art fair I sell our discontinued samples; I have people waiting for me before I open and do not stop selling all day. I am always told I have the best booth at the show - I only wish I were the artist! But I am certainly glad to be her rep!
I'll be showing Marjorie's collections at Stylemax next week and the at The Minneapolis Show. I hope to see many stores come by to see why her jewelry is nearly 30 years strong!
No comments:
Post a Comment