StringtownBeads and StringtownTasbihs Closing

On July 25, 2011 I opened my first Etsy shop - StringtownBeads. I opened it exactly one year after my best friend and beading buddy left this world. It was a way to honor her memory and our friendship. I wanted to turn what was the most difficult year of my life into something positive. I set a goal to open my shop on that date and I made it with minutes to spare.

StringtownBeads, which was eventually followed by the opening of StringtownTasbihs, opened up a whole new world for me. I joined several Etsy teams, but the Maryland one stands out to me the most. I was eventually asked to be a team leader for that team and I accepted. It was the first time I began to welcome new friends into my life after Stephanie left this world.

As my life and interests began to evolve, I stayed on some of my Etsy teams, but stepped down as team leader in order to create space and time to pursue other interests. It's funny because I originally bought my camera to take pictures of my jewelry, but photography has become so much more.

The only new year's resolutions I have made over the past couple of years have been to follow my heart and be open to change. I feel that my time as an Etsy shop owner has run its course and it's time to move on. I plan to continue beading as a hobby for myself, friends, and family, but in the very near future I will be permanently closing both shops.

This was not an easy decision. I have thought about closing my shops several times, but I kept going mostly because I did not want to let Stephanie down. I've come to realize I'd be letting her down by continuing to do something I no longer enjoy, which is simply the business aspect, not the beading itself.

The reason I decided not to pursue becoming a Zumba instructor is similar to the reason why I won't be continuing with Etsy. I want to pursue all of my hobbies and interests. What I've learned about myself is that I don't want to turn them into businesses.

I want to thank all of you for your support over the past 7 years, especially my Etsy teammates. You came into my life at a time when I really needed the boost and you have always been very supportive of me and my businesses.

As the holiday season approaches, I encourage you to explore Etsy for your shopping needs. You can even narrow your search to shops that are local to where you live. There is some amazing talent out there and they put their heart and soul into what they do.