By Emma Zaremba
Contributing Writer
Dedication and passion are key characteristics to success when starting up a small business.
Meghan Ferrucci, a sophomore art major, has put her crafty nature to good use by making eye-catching accessories. She recently created an account on Etsy.com, called “Wishbone Design,” where she sells her jewelry. With Internet usage consistently on the rise, an online shopping website was the ideal venue to begin her business venture.
Ferrucci started fashioning jewelry when she was nine, but said it was simply a hobby she pursued for entertainment. As a young girl, she made friendship bracelets at camp. This childhood-inspired craft sparked her interest to create jewelry of her own. By immersing herself in various jewelry-making techniques, she developed a unique style.
The majority of Ferrucci’s customers were family and friends. It wasn’t until a month ago that her beloved pastime became something more. The chance to advertise her accessories to a larger consumer base became a reality once she was introduced to Etsy.com.
“My good friend mentioned Etsy.com, which I had never heard of,” Ferrucci said.
Although the website was foreign to her, a quick tutorial was enough to help her set new goals and learn the business side of the industry.
Constructing various pieces is no burden, she says, because she loves the work.
“It is something fun and easy to do while watching TV,” she said.
Communication between friends helped establish a personal brand for Ferrucci and has led other people to express interest in her products. Still, she hopes that her affiliation with Etsy.com will grow to generate greater success.
Ferrucci favors certain materials, such as glass beads and copper wire when making her pieces.
“I like copper wire, it’s permanent and won’t rub off on your hand,” she said.
Although she has her preferences, she is willing to do custom jewelry as well.
“I think jewelry is a fun and simple way to dress up,” Ferrucci said.
The wide range of materials Ferrucci has worked with is representative of the styles she has discovered. Ferrucci has made pieces from anything preppy and girly, to boho, to plain and simple. She crafts her items to be fun and easy to wear so they appeal to everyone’s personal style.
With the summer months approaching, she even hopes to begin making new items such as studded shorts.
Ferrucci’s online business is a stepping-stone to the future she yearns for her business. Now that she sees her hard work being put to good use, her plans for the summer involve “visiting small shops and boutiques” around her hometown to see if they will display and sell some of her products.
It is a start-up business, but she says she already considers it a success.
Anyone interested in Ferrucci’s jewelry can visit her website, wishbonedesign.etsy.com, or contact her via email with requests.
