Happy Holidays darlings. I wanted to share with you what it’s like here in Chester, CT at Darling Headquarters, a.k.a Frock. From here, things look pretty magical, and not just at the holidays – all the time.
Susan Lomuto, creator of Daily Art Muse, experienced the magic firsthand recently, and documented so beautifully what is so often hard to put into words. Working as an apprentice to independent designer Dina Varano in her Chester boutique and metalsmithing studio she wrote about her experience in her blog. From time in the studio, to heartwarming exchanges between designer and shopper/supporter during a recent Chester Open House holiday night, her posts show the essence of why it feels so good to support independent designers, as well as how important it is for a designer to read recognition of their own work, by bloggers, shoppers, media, everyone. Independent designers are on a hard road following their dream, your support goes far. Thank you. Always Darling Forever.
Photo courtesy of Daily Art Muse
In the four hours that I was there, I marveled at Dina’s energy and enthusiasm, spending time with almost every person who walked through the door (and there were dozens), often greeting them with a hug, always greeting them with a smile and kind words.
Some of our favorite quotes from the post:
I heard stories. Stories of how Dina had created the perfect gift for a fiance, wife, mother, daughter, lover. Stories of how Dina had taken a beloved piece of jewelry that had lived out its useful life and found a way to incorporate pieces of it into a new design so that it lives on. Stories of how Dina’s shop has been a go-to place to shop in Chester for 15 years.
Dina has built a loyal following of collectors, customers and friends – not only because of the quality of her work – but also because she has spent years cultivating relationships with customers in her community and beyond. Down to earth, authentic, at-the-ready with ideas and flexible, she is a great example of how to build trust and loyalty, and I’m not just saying that because of my apprenticeship.
Collab with Jackie Kangley, … click to see this sculptural bag animated.
I walked away that night understanding that I had just witnessed success. Success built on the foundation of good work and good relationships. I strongly encourage you to continue to develop relationships with your customers and potential customers, whether they come to you online or at a brick and mortar shop. Everyone benefits.
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