Interview with Etsy designer Lauren Gray!

Ever want to know how to make it as an Etsy designer?  Check out our interview with Lauren Gray of Pearls and Pastries and get her tips on making a business out of what you love!

How did you get into crafting?
I have always loved crafting and creating things. My Grandmother who is an artist taught me that art has no rules. Taking a blank canvas playing with color, fabrics, stamps, ribbon, glitter, confetti, tissue paper, and being able to create a piece of art is such a rewarding feeling. The  summers when I used to sit with my grandmother  in her studio together have stuck with me throughout my life. I am so incredibly blessed I was able to discover my talent with someone as special as my grandmother.

Do you have any formal training or is it all self taught?
I was never trained in art or graphic design. All of my work is self taught. I took many art classes in high school and a few in college but mostly focused on getting my teaching degree.

When did you launch your shop pearlsandpastries and how did you promote yourself to get such a big following?
I launched my shop in March of 2013. It has been a such an amazing experience. It all started with Instagram. I immediately fell in love with the idea of being able to take pictures of the things I love and inspire me and share them with my readers and followers in hopes that it will inspire them. Pearls and Pastries is a magical place where inspiration is created by playing with color and throwing glitter. I love surrounding myself with things that inspire me. Weather it be a fresh vase of roses on my desk or a bowl of glitter. I love being able to spread sparkle though a picture.

My following mainly comes from other people posting pictures of their Pearls and Pastries Goodies! My favorite part about my shop is seeing how everyone uses/ displays their sequins hangers and prints!

Your sequined hanger is a super popular item.  What went behind the idea and creative process?
Ahhh yes the Sequin Hanger! I came to me one night while I was photographing an “outfit of the day” pic on IG and as I was taking the pic I wouldn’t help but stare at the ugly wooden hanger. My love for glitter and sequins came into play shortly after and BAM The Original Sequin Hanger was born. I sent a few off to girlfriends. They had so much fun opening up a package filled with sparkle. I wanted to be able to give that feeling to girls all over the world! No matter how terrible your day has been. When you come home to a package that is bursting with confetti and sequins you can not help but smile!

I then introduced The Sequin Hanger on Instagram and the rest is history!

What other items are big sellers?
My prints are also big sellers. I want the girl that buys a Pearls and Pastries print to be able to get up each and every day read it and know that she too can design a life she loves, that she is amazing, and can co ANYTHING she sets her mind to.

Do you have any new items in the works that will be available soon?
I have a Pearls and Pastries Apparel line coming out July 1st!!

What advice do you have for teens wanting to get into crafting and having an etsy shop?
When it comes to crafting and starting an Etsy shop there are a few things to know.

Be original – Although your idea may be amazing make sure someone already isn’t selling the exact thing.
Have Passion – Passion can not be taught nor bought. Never start an Etsy shop because you want to make a few bucks. Being passionate about your brand will get you so much farther.
Know that it will take time – All good things take time. It will be up to you how big your brand gets. NETWORK NETWORK NETWORK! Find girls that are doing the same thing as you and brainstorm ways to get your name out there!
Work for FREE!- Send your amazing creations to the people that inspire you! Word of mouth is always a great way to get business!

Do you have any 3 step ideas you can share with a teen wanting to try a project?
My 3 Steps when it comes to starting a project are simple and easy

Get a list of all of the items you will need. – make sure not to re purchase something you already have. You would be surprised on how many glue sticks and paint brushes you have hiding in drawers!
2. Use your coupons! Almost all craft stores offer amazing 40% coupons that you can get at the store or online.
3. Have fun. Make the project unique to you, that is what art is all about. Put on your favorite playlist grab a bowl of confetti, a friend and, make a day of it.

To check out Pearls and Pastries click here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PearlsandPastries