Art Expressions By Pam

Musings about discounts.

2012-01-25T11:04:00.000-08:00

I tend to give away a lot of art. I see it as a way to advertise and get my product in the hand of the consumer. This helps me build my business in the way of repeat sales and referrals. Some artists shy away from such practices thinking it cheapens their art. Others follow the same practice for it is better to spend money on clients than internet or print advertisement. For the product in the hand speaks volumes.

Yet, the consumer is always looking for a deal, a bargain. They want to make sure their money is well spent. Some spend a lot of money for they think that the price reflects the value, as in the old saying "you get what you pay for" Others think that if you produce more, you should give a discount. I agree, treat your loyal clients well, give them a special thank you, a discount or a small gift for the purchase. I've done that many times. Perhaps a Aceo as a thank you - or a card with my art or a photo pendant of the art. But, when it comes to volume discount I'm torn.

I muse on this concept. When I was employed outside the home, if I produced more, I wanted a larger wage for my production. If I worked over 40hrs per week, I expected more pay not less. I wanted that time and one half. So, why is it that clients and artist sometimes expect or give discounts for more work? If I work more than 40 hours producing the product why would there be less compensation? I'm not griping, for I love what I do, but I wonder why people expect more for less. I wonder if anyone who works in an office every told their boss. I worked harder, longer, yet more efficient to save you overhead, so you can pay me less this week. I think not !

Self employed people often work 60hrs a week or more to make ends meet doing what they love. They give discounts for loyal clients, and reap what they sow. Many live below poverty standards, yet people still think they are rolling in the money. I assure you that the only rolling I do is in my bed. But, as time progresses and skills improve, I plan to reap what I sow, and have some jingle in my pocket to show for it.

Having more with less

2012-01-23T06:11:00.000-08:00

It is a new year, people are talking about setting your goals, making your financial plan for your business. What is your plan? I plan to have more with less. Does that sound contradictory to you?
Is there really a way to have more with less? More what you may ask?

I plan to have more
money
artistic growth
personal growth

free time
enjoyment
health

Now, doesn't that sound like a good goal? But how does one have more with less? Here is my plan.

Sell the huge home and downsize to a tiny home. Build this 1,200 foot home myself, so I save more money and pocket more profit. Reduce my acreage from ten to five.

Grow my own food on the parcel of land, no need for ten acres because I'm no longer going to eat meat, so I don't need pasture to raise beef on. Again, saving money, and gaining health benefits from becoming a vegetarian and knowing that my food is organic.

I will gain artistic growth by building a studio and grooming salon, where I can work from home, giving me more time to create. This too creates a more positive cash flow with less. Less travel time, less money given back in percentages to the grooming salon and gallery, I become my own entity. So, I gain 40-55% of my income back.

Since I will be working at home, I can set my hours and make more money in less time, so that gives
me more time to purse other activities, like paddling down the Suwannee River, and taking photos.

Having more with less sounds pretty good to me? What do you think?

Be a dreamer, and make plans for dreams to come true. You have the power to change your life.

What makes me different from other artists?

2011-12-28T08:55:00.000-08:00

I once had an inquiry asking, why should I buy a pet portrait from you? Why are you different?
As we look at art history we can see that many great artists became famous by standing out in a crowd, coming up with a new idea, something different perhaps even weird. People are fascinated by new and different ways to express the world around them with art. I didn't get the sale, perhaps I'm not so different. How does one compare to others and say that they are different?

Once an artist told me perhaps it is because I don't think of my art as a job, that is why I'm different. But, for me art is a passion, it is part of my daily living, something that will never go away. I don't think of it as a job. I think of it as completion of my soul, a God given talent that comes fourth every minute of each day.

I create art to live, not to make a living, so maybe this is different? Yes, I need an income to survive, but I won't overprice my art to pay my bills. I will continue to seek alternative income to supplement my passion.

I price art for the masses, not for certain classes of people. The prices are refective of my skill level and number of hours it takes me to create. There is no false pretense that my work takes so very long to create that I have to raise prices. I lowered prices in 2011 due to the poor economy and gave
away more art than I can count. Does this make me different?

My sales are based on social networking, and showing my work in progress. I get to know my clients and they get to know me. I share daily, not just my art, but my soul - my personal being. Does this make me different?

When I paint a pet, I feel its energy, that love of animals guides my hand and eyes from my heart, I paint with the rhythm of my soul. Does this make me different?

I explore all mediums and include other services such as sewing and grooming for pets. Does this make me different?

To answer that inquiry, I told the client that I painted from my heart, and charged a reasonable price, and that my goal was that the painting would reflect the soul of the pet in the eyes. - I didn't get the sale, maybe she was looking for something much more different that what I had to offer. For, all I offer is my love of animals, my passion for art, my ability to communicate with the photo to render a cherished portrait.

cha - cha- cha changes

2011-12-15T19:41:00.000-08:00

changes David Bowie video

Happy Holidays - hope if you have had changes they have been positive.

I became a full time artist about nine months ago. And I found out that your previous year can not predict the future or present year. I did paint, and gained thousands on followers on my Facebook page. But, I did learn that one must adapt to changes. The economy is so bad in many places that I lowered my fees. I kept busy, but not enough to pay bills so I sought out supplemental income. Yet, with my management background finding a part time or lower paid job was almost impossible. I went to grooming school for my love of animals, and loved it, yet still not enough to land a job. Yes, fill in jobs, but making 40.00 a month was still not enough.

So as David Bowie says, time might change me, but I can't change time. After nine months I was running out of money and time. I prayed for help, and prayers were answered. I found two jobs in one week, so now I am working seven days a week and doing my art. For, art is in my soul and I will never quit. I love animals and will never stop grooming, but it may be a slower start than anticipated.

I know that I am always telling you how to achieve or set your goals for yourself and your business. But, I too have to let you know that sometimes your goals will not be met. But, that is not reason to give up. It may be just time to make a change. Sometimes there has to be plan B. I will continue to set goals and never let these changes set me back from the things that are most dear to me. My family, pets, and art are the most important. No matter what changes I make to adapt to life's pressures to make a sustainable income will not make me change my values and goals.

Gearing up for Holiday Sales!

2011-11-16T12:24:00.000-08:00

Gosh, did you know that even Oprah likes hand painted ornaments? It was one of her top favorite gift pics for this year. See her pics here. http://www.oprah.com/gift/Christmas-Ornaments?editors_pick_id=34314
Darn it, I should of thought about sending all my celebrity friends custom ornaments! LOL

This is my second year painting these ornaments and I have a variety styles, from flat, porcelain, round, hearts and more. What a wonderful keepsake to get a custom painted holiday ornament for your tree or display case. I'm running a special on the last hearts for only 23.00 each - sure beats the prices I've seen this year. In fact I've dropped all of my prices due to the economy. I can't see charging my friend's more when some don't have a job right now. See my ornaments here: Custom Pet Portrait Ornaments

And I've even set up my sewing machine! I'm offering the bandanna of the month club - for a 2.00 savings per bandanna with 3 free after the purchase of twelve. The are slip over the collar, reversible, washable bandannas. Made to order based on your dog's collar size and sex. Just added Holiday fabric .Check them out here: custom made pet bandannas

Next will be canine boutique clothes.

Happy Holidays to you and your family. May you have time to create something special this season.

Pet Bandana of the Month Club! Join now

2011-10-25T04:28:00.000-07:00

I've completed pet grooming school, ordered up fabric and ribbon, and spent all day yesterday sewing my first over the collar bandana collection.

I chose black- red and white for the first collection since I have a black, and a white dog, the colors appealed to me. This collection will be available via my FB page and at the new grooming salon.

So, perhaps I've come up with a little cottage industry to supplement my income, or just a fun additional hobby to add with my pet portraits.

The bandanas are made of two selections of fabrics sewn right sides together, then turned out and top stitched for a reversible, washable stylish accessory for your pet.

Club members will answer questions about their pet so each month they will receive a custom made bandana based on the answers to the questions. They will have the extra discount of free shipping, and once 12 bandanas have been purchased they will receive a bonus of three free! Think of how fun it will be to get your surprise monthly package for your beloved pet. Add 2.00 shipping per package for non club members.

Size Small - Measures 8 1/2" wide 5 1/2 inches down - fits 5 to 10" collar. (My Mini Schnauzers wear this size) $ 5.50

Size Medium - Measures 10 1/4 inch wide 7 1/4 " down, fits 11 - 16" collar $6.50

Size Large - Measured 12 inches wide 8 1/2 inches down, fits 17-21" collar $7.50

XL for the really large chested dogs measures 14 1/4 inch wide, and 10 1/2 inches long, fits 22" and above collar. $8.50

Sign up here: contact for your special offer and list of questions

A Butcher a Baker, a Candlestick Maker?

2011-10-20T04:32:00.000-07:00

Or is it an Artist, a Groomer, a Photographer? Yes, goals can be set and dreams can come true.
Please don't ever say no to your heart.

After almost twenty five years of being a manager, my heart was no longer in it. I was burned out stressed out and disenchanted with the medical profession. I had no song in my heart and depression and anxiety set in.

Hubby told me to start painting again two years ago. And I took his advise. This new hobby soon became a business, and the passion for art and animals grew. I worked daily creating pet portraits and occasionally some flowers. My anxiety and depression were eased by the process. I had focus. I was making people happy and helping animals. I was making some money, and donating much to causes. Life was good, my fan page grew larger than I had ever dreamed. I was sharing my passion, art and photography with the world. Making people happy along with myself. Each day with a new painting or photo to share. Creating smiles, mending hearts. I knew this was filling a void and I wanted more.

I told my husband I needed to help animals even more, I wanted to go to grooming school. Yet, I had left that management job to pursue my art and heal my soul. So, money was no longer jingling in my pocket. But, by a small miracle I was able to go to grooming school. There I learned that not only did I love every dog that I came in contact with, that they too could sense my kindness. They were calm, and let me groom them and love them. Each pet would get a hug a kind touch and a little encouragement. I'd tell them all after they were completed the groom they were show dogs. Yes, I know they couldn't understand that, but still who doesn't love a complement. The Pace Academy of Dog grooming promised each student that there were job opportunities and my instructor found me a job placement along with the others.

So, my journey has not ended. I'm about to start a new one, helping Rhonda from Lucky Dog and Spa & Boutique embark on her new business in Pace FL. There she will create a luxury retail and grooming spa. I will be able to keep on loving pets, perfecting my skills as a groomer. I will display some art, paint a mural and photograph pets. We may do creative grooming too. Why not? I'm a creative type, from canvas to pet, so much can be accomplished if your goals and heart meet in the middle.

Fall is in the Air, and my plans are everywhere!

2011-09-25T16:56:00.000-07:00

So, after going through several names for grooming, I decided on Grooming and Beyond

Pet Spa and Studio. Just a few more weeks and I'll be a certified pet groomer. I love every minute of it.

Hubby thinks he can build me my own studio if our home sells, at our next location. But, for now, I still need to make money. In the grooming business, you don't usually get paid per hour, you get paid a percentage of the work you do. I landed a job on the weekend as a bather, but when I got there they decided not to let me bathe, but to groom one dog, to see my work. So, I groomed one dog, drove 70 miles hung out for a few hrs and made 13.00. Well, that just isn't going to help me get that $1,000 grooming table and clipper vac machine! Ha, setting up my own shop will take about $20,000 to build and furnish w/equipment and tub.

So, what is a girl to do? Start my business w/what I've got! A girl can make money if she wants to. So, I advertised in all the local classified papers, and on Facebook. Grooming, home visits. I have a fold up table, and a box full of clippers, and such and a good car. So, hopefully, I can start to build a client base and get 100% of the groom with less travel. Then start saving for the Spa. The goal is to have a grooming area, art studio and photography studio in one building, work 3 days a week at grooming and the rest for my art. Grooming is very demanding work on the body. But, I'm building strength each day, and no matter how hard it is, I enjoy it so much more than pushing papers. Yes, I know there will be plenty of paperwork for my business, but at least it will be mine and the paperwork will be more rewarding. Keeping good records is essential. Gosh, why did I sell that Quick Books program! - Oh well, I can get another one. I have plenty of basic accounting skills from college and jobs I've had over the past many years.

Creative Blessings

2011-09-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

I feel so blessed. I left my job about 6 months ago to pursue my artistic talents and dreams. I thought for sure I could land a part time job no problem. Boy, was I wrong, I searched and searched, applied for every job that I could find. But, nothing. My bills were stacking up, my husband was scared. Pet portraits sales were slow. But, I knew in my heart that this is what I needed to do. I wanted to be healthy and happy.

My love of dogs is so strong, I wanted to do more, just painting them wasn't enough. I needed to see them, be with them bond with them. So, turning a negative financial situation around, I applied for Federal assistance for job training. After five months the application was accepted. Off to dog grooming school I went. I have been at it for two weeks. And I can tell you that this time I spend grooming dogs has been the most rewarding work I have ever done. I went to college for Business Management and have had several high profile administrative jobs for hospitals but none gave me the satisfaction that working with animals does.

My goal is to add a grooming / art studio to my next home. Offering quality grooming, photography pet portraits and of course my art. Watercolor and acrylic paintings and pet portraits. I intend to live the rest of my life helping animals and doing the things I love, not working for some corporation.

This journey has come so far, yet I feel like is is just about to begin. I'm so excited!

Thank you for following my journey with me. I do dream big. There is no harm in being a dreamer. Close your eyes and dream, see what you can come up with. You will not be disappointed if you follow your dream.

Finding "Your" Market

2011-08-26T15:35:00.000-07:00

Steve from Artist pay check summed it up. Each artist has to find his or her "market".
The sale of art has nothing to do with the economy or the market. It is all about each artist reaching out and seeking his or her market.

Some pet portrait artists paint every hair, some paint with zest and flair, I tend to throw my marbles everywhere. Exploring different styles and surfaces to paint on.

Why do I do this? Well, I'm not an artist that wants to be famous for one unique style. I have a diverse clientele. Some may want a watercolor and an acrylic, maybe even graphite or pen and ink. So I give them options. My business is Art Expressions By Pam. My goal is to create expressions of happiness for me, and the pet lover by sharing my different styles based on their requests. So, you can say my niche is in expressions.

So, if you have not found your market with the internet, or your local gallery, perhaps you need to show them a few more offerings and be persistent. For the art collector wants to know that you are here to stay, no mater what the style is of the day . There is a market for you and for me, the world of buyers is huge, now go find your market!

Who's Starving?

2011-08-12T11:37:00.000-07:00

So, as I progress, and read about being a successful artist, there are so many rules.

Don't let them know you are starving,
act starving and they will make sure you starve.
Dress the part
Charge according to your skill
People think if it is high prices there was more effort or skill or more value, keep your prices in line with success.
Act successful and success will follow

Gosh, I thought art was about expression. About the love of creating. I've done that whole corporate thing for years, and frankly I'm a bit turned off with the fake people I've met in the corporate world.

So, if I want to paint naked, have no food and drop my prices - Well, I don't really care. I don't fit in
with the social norm of being a successful artist. But, I am not starving, I'm filled with compassion for
animals, for people, and I do what I can to help. I will do what it takes to paint every day until I can no longer grasp a brush, and that brings me richness that money can't buy.

So before you put on your makeup, your mark up, and become a success, first define what that means to you,--- to your soul. To me it means - being who I am, and expressing it with photography, paint and laughter, not with a vision of who I am supposed to be defined by someone other than myself.

Just saying - live - love - laugh - life is short. Enjoy.

Hold On To Your Dreams

2011-08-11T03:32:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite songs.

Several months ago, I had a dream to move forward in a more creative way. I left a high paying job to explore my artistic side. It hasn't been easy, for summer is slow for my art sales, and money was so tight. I wasn't sure how I could hold on. I was searching for part time jobs to fill the gap. But, after over 20 years of management experience, finding an entry level job was impossible.

I wasn't about to give up and go back to a job that I hated. I had lived a stressful life for long enough. I knew I could do more. I still painted every day, to improve my skills and to keep my Facebook page active. For no one wants to purchase art from an artist who isn't creating new work. My page grew in numbers month after month, and I painted and showed and found other places that would take my art to sell for me. Yet, I knew that after painting for less than two years I could not even come close to making
the $40,000 per year that I was making. Hell, I was losing money. Yet, I still had that dream. I have always wanted to be self employed. And I am still determined to hold on.

I applied for Vocational Rehabilitation to change career paths. I needed to be creative. After four months, they approved my application and I will be going to dog grooming school. I went to cosmetology school as a young woman, and have been cutting hair and grooming my dogs ever since. My connection with animals is so strong, and my creative abilities are so natural. I was cutting my own hair since the age of fourteen.

So, listen to my song, and don't give up. For if you continue to pursue your dream, it can happen.
It is happening for me.

Gone Local - Crestview Florida - Fort Walton Beach FL

2011-08-02T10:20:00.000-07:00

Things are looking pretty good for my ornaments and art work at the new shop in Fort Walton Beach called Fiddly Bits and Tea. They sold one of my paintings before the grand opening and are taking orders for the beach theme glass ornaments.

Tomorrow, I'll be dropping in at the bakery in Crestview. The name of the business is Not Just Cakes.
Located on 290 North Main Steet in Crestivew. They rotate out a few artists and the next spot is going to be available shortly. I will let them take a look at my swan, hibiscus and banana leaves. I think they would be a good fit for the cafe.

I'm proud to help my local shops dress up the walls with afordable local art.

Still very excited about the Charity book too. I have received so much support and some fantastic photos of positive pit bulls. After my meetings in the morning, I will be working on another lovely pit. This time in color pencil.

you can see some of my art prints here - Offereing cards and prints of some of my favorite photography.
My Art Web Page - prints- cards sold here

Art - is where the heart is.

I'll Share on FB, will you?

2011-07-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

So many professionals have left Facebook because photos are easily downloaded, and shared. There is fear of art being stolen, and used for profit. So, they leave, delete the albums and go elsewhere. But, FB still holds the information in their database. Anything you put in or on the internet can be used for your good or against you in a court of law. So, be careful what you post, write, share.

That said, FB is designed to be a social network, so they make it easy to download and share. Am I going to leave? Heck no. One must measure the outcome vs the benefits. My photos that I upload are low resolution, and I allow people on FB and Flicker creative common license. They can use my photos for screen savers, to create art from and to share. Why would I be okay with this? Because I create and share because it makes me happy and makes others happy. Do I think my stuff has no value? No, I think my photos and paintings are priceless. There is no monetary value you can measure for appreciation, beauty or happiness.

Can people steal my photos? Perhaps, but the quality printed would be substandard, and it isn't like my prints are selling like crazy. Do, I make prints available? Yes, but mostly for exposure, so that more people can see my art.

Do I want to be able to make a living on my artistic abilities? You betch ya. Will I? Perhaps not. Yet, if there was no FB, there would be no journey. I would not of sold any art, would not of made people smile. The potential social media provides is for opportunities is tremendous. Creating art and sharing my journey is therapy, for without purpose I may not have the desire to succeed. I create because it comes from my soul, bubbling forth and I can not stop it. This is what being an artist means to me. No, I may not make a living from it, but it keeps me among the living.

So, if you have something to share and sell; think, do I need this platform or not? Is it worth the risk? Can facebook or random people actually download my photography and make $$$$$ with them? Is my privacy of my work worth the denial of social networking, because I already have a large enough audience and abundant sales?

Goals, do we always meet them?

2011-07-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm quite the goal setter. Without goals I have no direction, nor motivation to achieve something new. But, as I continue my artistic journey, do I meet all my goals?

No, I don't always meet all of my goals. My goal was to be a full time artist. Yes, I have been painting every day for quite some time. So, yes, I can say I'm a full time artist, but I did not make my projected goals for income. So, I had to adjust and seek employment.

Did I make my goal of working out each day and losing 30 lbs. Nope, I still spent too much time painting, for that is my real passion.

I have a goal of being able to build my next home and be debt free. Will I meet this goal? Perhaps, but I have to sell this home first.

Why do I continue to set goals if I don't always meet my old goals? I keep setting goals because I need to have a challenge to look forward to. And if I fail, it is okay, for without failure there can be no success. Without sorrow, there can be no joy. Life is about experiences, some good, some bad. With each goal or experience we learn and grow so that we can continue to move forward.

So, don't be afraid to set your goals high, for if we shoot for the moon we may land somewhere up high. And if you don't meet your goals, don't give up. Adjust or try a new approach. For all things worth wild are worth working towards.

What are some of your goals?

New Products and new Relationships

2011-07-12T04:20:00.000-07:00

During the summer the pet portrait business slows down for me. People are out on vacation spending their money on fun. But that doesn't mean it is time for me to slow down. Oh, no - my mind is always thinking of the next niche, next opportunity to promote and sell my work. And, it is time for me to build up some products for my Etsy page.
Painted Gifts Etsy Shop by Pam Utton

I have had three exciting things happen so far this summer.

I have some photographs in another Collaborative book from Bradford Wheler
this is the second book of his that I have participated in.
Horse Sayings Artist list

I send him some of my funny pictures. I like to put the camera on the ground and look up at the horse with the lens.

A new shop opened up in Fort Walton Beach, FL, called Fiddly Bits and Tea. They had a call to
artists for some art to sell on a commission basis. So, I loaded up my car and brought several paintings thinking she may want a couple. I was very excited when she told me that she wanted all of them, and to keep painting, that the shop would take all the art I could provide. I have an eclectic mix of watercolor and acrylic paintings, from flowers, to rock stars and carousel horses. Now, I'm painting FL theme ornaments to add to her shop along with my glass photo tiles of my art.
fiddly bits and tea

3 1/2 hand painted glass disks by Pam Utton

I have also been researching how to paint on fabric. I have a medium that I can add to my paint and can now offer painted fabric. The next step is to get out my sewing machine and make pillow shams so that I can provide custom portraits that are washable, all the client will have to do is slip the cover over a pillow. This way, they don't have to worry about the pillow wearing out, and they can wash the cover. It has been a while since I sewed. Yes, quite a while. I used to make my clothes and make quilts, so making a sham should be quite easy. Just have to remember how to thread the needle!

And while going textile, I'm in communication with one of my Facebook friends Vera regarding adding
some of my art to HP needlepoint designs. I've ordered some catalogs too so that I can order some canvas to paint on for commission pet portraits for my clients.
needlepoint designs by Vera


8x10 Acrylic painting by Pam Utton

And the last new thing on my list is: a call out to artists for Pit Bull art to add to a new charity book. I have a few interested and some art has been submitted to me, but not enough for a book yet. The Art 4 Causes page on FB is about artists who want to help others with a % of sales or donations of art. We made a book for bulldog charity and it is still selling. So, since pits, are my second favorite breed, I wanted to make a book of them next.

8x10 Watercolor Pit Bull by Pam Utton

So you see, if you have a business and if there is a particular time of year where sales slow down a bit, don't relax too much, for this is the perfect opportunity to make new products, build inventory, and meet new friends to build collaborative relationships with.

Enjoy the rest of your summer. Have fun, make friends and be creative. For you never know where the next opportunity is for you and your business.

Vision Letter

2011-06-14T16:34:00.000-07:00

Now, I've been in the corporate world for over twenty years, and yes I've written vision statements. At one point in time I remember each organization had a vision statement. Something short and to the point. I even painted a corporate logo with the vision statement for our office.

But, I had never written a vision letter to myself to keep and read each day. I always thought things happen for a reason, and decided that this was all I could do is let it happen and deal with it. But, perhaps we can control our destiny with positive affirmations. I've always tried to be positive, but maybe just maybe I could increase my likelihood of success with a better vision, written down and reviewed on a daily basis.
My coach Rebecca and mentor for my new business selling and sharing the business opportunity with Life's Abundance products told me to write a letter and read it each day. Sounds so powerful. Of course she gave me examples of how the owners of the company did just that and were able to see their dreams/visions manifest. See the products here for Holistic Pet products

I joked with my FB fans that I had visioned myself as a full time artist and in 12 months my goal came true, here I am at home painting every day, selling pet portraits and exploring different subjects styles and sizes. But, I forgot the main ingredient! I forgot to add a steady source of income large enough to continue on with my dream. Well, don't get me wrong, I won't ever give up my dream, but I do need to supplement my income with a job other than just my art.

That is where Life's Abundance came to play. Heck yes, I told Rebecca count me in, I want to offer quality products and discounts to my rescue friends. But, in order to sell and make enough income, I have to set a firm vision - write my letter. Keep the eye on the prize. For we all can get pumped up, excited and have a can do attitude but, we can just as quickly get distracted and lose that loving feeling.

So, in the days to come, I will be thinking about my vision. I will include things like where I live, what my paintings are selling for, what galleries they are in, how many people I have in my down line for Life's Abundance, and how financially secure I am for my stick to it and make my vision come true.

Are you self employed? Do you have a vision letter for yourself? For, the time you takes to write and read your vision letter for your five or ten year goal; it might serve you better than any business plan you ever wrote. For this is more than a plan, this is a letter of you living your vision. A letter for your future and the success it holds for yourself and your business.

Enthusiasm is the cornerstone of my business

2011-06-02T11:45:00.000-07:00

Are you stuck in a rut? Do you no longer have the desire to go to work? I know how you feel. I have worked for other people all my life and I was a good employee. But, no matter what job I had, I never filled that need. The need to be my own boss, in charge of my future. One where I could help people and help animals along with doing things that I enjoyed.

So many of us have dreams but we are afraid to make our dreams come true. Negative thinking and doubts creep in and we get cold feet. We still dream but it always just a dream.

"Winners never quite, and quitters never win"

"If you don't believe in yourself, no one else will"

Sure, I know - it takes money to make money, and that is true, but there are so many things you can do for just a little investment. If you have the time and the enthusiasm, you can make those dreams come true.

I wanted to paint and sell pet portraits, yes it cost me much more money than I had expected. But, not all at once. I kept my full time job, and every time I sold a painting I purchased supplies. I wanted to be prepared for orders since I live in the country and there are no art supply stores. I would order, paper, then paints, ornaments, canvas, each time I made some money I would invest in in my business. Twelve months later I had two closets full of supplies and $5,000 spent. But, it didn't hurt my finances. I still had my job. Now that I had been on Facebook for a year, published in several books and some magazines and spotlighted in multiple blogs - I was ready!

I dove in - quit that job where I lacked satisfaction. I wasn't helping enough people. Sure, making my boss money, but not helping in a way I knew I could help others.

Today, I am super excited and bubbling over with enthusiasm. I have joined the Life's Abundance team as an independent sales rep. Here I will be able to offer great products at a fantastic price point for Breeders, Kennels and Rescues. Holistic Pet Products Here- learn more , and I'll be able to purchase quality food for my pets, and help my friends decide if this might be something they want to try. So many of my FB friends are out of work. This cost me less than $300.00 to become and executive rep. and I received samples and products that exceed that value. Also, the company has so many support systems and training to include bi-monthly training from the Veterinarian. That is priceless. I feel like I'm going to vet tech school. I am just amazed with the product and support.

I connected with another friend on FB to be a sales associate for Lou's Doggie Boutique. Received my manual and samples today. Great hoodies, quality product and very maketable - This cost me nothing but my dedication to help her achieve her sales goals. Doggie Boutique on Amazon here

People who read my blog and watch my posts on my watercolor page My Art Page tell me I am such an inspiration to them. I am upbeat friendly and personable. And of course I'm full of enthusiasm. How can I let my fans down? I get comments all them time, " you brighten my day" you make me smile" I even had one " you are my drug, and I mean that in a good way"

So, I've joined teams that give me satisfaction, I paint and give back to rescues, Life's Abundance has a foundation and they give back to rescues, and Lou's Doggie Boutique gives back to rescues. So together we are happy that we can help ourselves and help animals and other people grow their business.

Life is good - reach for the stars - don't let people tell you - "you can't" because if you are enthusiastic
" YOU CAN"

Multiple Business Lines - when your streams need refreshing

2011-05-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

I've discussed having multiple streams of income, before. How I have my paintings, prints, web pages and how they all link back to one another for easy management and to get more exposure. But, what if you have doe all the search engine optimization you can think of, all the link backs and all your streams hit a dry spell?

We are having a serious drought here in North West Florida, water restrictions, and high unemployment. Art sales are typically slower for me in the summer, due to people saving money for vacations.

How is your craft or art business doing this year? Mine is under projections, so it is time to turn on the faucet and add more revenue to the stream.

I've decided to add more product lines. This is where the beauty of social networking can come into play for you. I've networked with so many other small business owners that when I explained that I needed more income and would be willing to help them with sales, they were ready to listen.

I'm a natural sales person, being very outgoing and very upbeat and quite funny. I have found three businesses that are willing to work with me. I've signed on with two of them so far.

I will now be marketing dog fashions for Lou's Doggie Boutique, offering wholesale to pet stores and retail for my sales. Purchase Doggie Boutique Items Here
I'll tell you more once I see the samples. I'll probably market here and on FB, and once I have some extra cash flow, add a new web site with a shopping cart.

Then I signed up with Life's Abundance - Holistic pet products and more.
Life's Abundance

I'll also be doing some contract work demonstrating products in a local pet store.

So, when your streams are running low, time to brainstorm, find new ways to make your business grow.

Spring is in Bloom, so let's paint flowers!

2011-05-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

Is it possible to become a known artist for pets and flowers? I don't see why not. Being an artist is about following your passion. I've always loved animals and plants. I've been taking flower pictures since I owned my first Kodak camera at the age of eight.

If you live in a cold climate or can't grow you own flowers to gain inspiration from, don't fret. For there are always flowers closer to you than you might think. What you say? Show me you say? Well, what about your local grocery store! Yes, indeed, they have beautiful flowers! Every time I go grocery shopping I bring my camera!

My local Art Society Fort Walton Beach Arts and Design Society has a call to artists in June for
art works inspired by Georgia O'Keeffe O'keeffe museum Most people who don't even paint or draw or collect art have heard of her.
call to artists

So, sifting through my photographs, I came up with several that cropped nice to a 5x7. As I paint them I upload them to my Fine Art America web page. Thinking that these paintings will look great for cards.
My Fine Art America Web Site

Fine Art America is a great resource for people looking to sell art. I upload photographs and my artwork there. People can order prints, canvas, frames, cards and originals. FAA does all the work, they send me a check once a month as products sell. If you have not tried FAA - you might want to check into it. I have a banner on my Blog. It is well worth the $30.00 a year for the exposure.

Now, yes, what was I here for, to show you flowers! I'll be painting flowers every day this week. I've done three 5x7's so far. They actually take quite a while. Todays project took four hours.

Big DISCOUNTS for Big Canvas

2011-05-17T11:30:00.000-07:00

So, it is still May and I didn't get any orders for large paintings so that I could donate that $100.00 as offered to rescue of choice. But, my quest is still to go big. I didn't land that big job, so I continue to paint daily.

18x24 work in progress will sell for $300.00 when completed

I've moved up from the tiny paintings on marbles and pebbles that were so fun. I sold several, but $20.00 sales is not really going big. I made the Happy Tails Saloon painting, that included a cat and six dogs, that was a pretty darn big project. Prints are for sale at my Etsy shop for only $20.00.

Painted Gifts Etsy Shop

As an artist the first difficult thing to find is your audience and clients. The next most important thing is to find the right pricing structure. So, after much research and looking at the artists who are selling larger portraits on a consistent basis, I had to review my larger canvas prices. Smaller canvases can be more detailed and tiny brushes can be used to create fur, but on the larger canvas the size of the brush increases and the wow factor increases but it doesn't take four times longer than the smaller sizes. So, as an effort to keep going big, I have created big discounts for my clients on the larger sizes. This keeps my price point at or below some of the other pet portrait artists. I feel confident that my skills are at par with many of the artists I follow on Facebook. And I feel fortunate that I can not only paint many subjects, that I can paint from 1" and up. Drawing skills helps when it comes to creating portraits of varied sizes. I don't use a projector, so I have to be able to draw before I paint.

The price was dropped the 16x20 from $320.00 to $225.00 and on the 18x24 from $450.00 down to $300.00 the carousel is that size. These are great sizes to make a room statement and w/the acrylic you can hang as is, not frame and glass expense. (shipping additional)

Will still always offer watercolor too, but no larger than 16x20.

Affordable Art Prints are Here!

2011-05-14T06:32:00.000-07:00

As I continue to paint almost daily, more subjects are being painted, from elephants to flowers and dogs with hats! My goal is to always offer affordable art to people who love art but can't afford the high end market. So, as my skills and prices edge up a bit, this is keeping a few from being able to afford my art. I am now loading up my Etsy shop "PaintedGifts" with more affordable art to include prints for only $20.00

My Etsy Shop
Bulldog Snore print
Happy Tails Saloon print

My goal it to continue to offer quality pet portraits by commission. In my free time I'll work on larger canvases. This will give me an opportunity to sell more styles and subjects with my print offerings.

So, check in once in a while, you never know what I'll paint next, but I'll tell you the next one is going to be a carousel horse.

Happy Tails Saloon - The making of a game room painting

2011-05-10T14:06:00.000-07:00

My fan base on Facebook was asked to upload photos of dogs wearing hats. Within the first day I had some fantastic photos of all kinds of dogs wearing some pretty interesting hats. The idea was to make a really fun painting that would be popular enough to sell prints from, and to get fan participation.
visit my on FB here Pam's Watercolor Pet Portraits

My first idea was to give prints to the the owners of the dogs I chose to paint and raffle off the original painting, but found out that Paypal will not allow purchase of tickets for raffles, and my account was suspended. I guess I better read the fine print from know on!

For May I want to go big with donations to rescues and have made this my second go big event.
Since I was not able to raffle the painting I've listed on Ebay, with a 25% donation going to Alaqua Animal Refuge upon sale.visit Alaqua Refuge here

See my Ebay listing here Happy Tails Saloon

This painting took a week and one half to complete. I'm a fast painter and acrylic dries fast.
Commissions always welcome.

Here is my work in progress.

Going BIG for MAY Special Rescue donations on 16x20 commissions

2011-05-02T07:50:00.000-07:00

I love the saying "Go big or Go Home!" - and sometimes a 10% donation just isn't really large enough to help those animals in need. So MAY 2011 - I'm having a really BIG donation event.

Here is the scoop. Order a 16x20 Pet Portrait this month and I will donate $100.00 back to the rescue of your choice. My realistic styles for that size start at $320.00 per one pet. I paint the entire animal for no additional fees, so that part is up to you, just a nice face to shoulder portrait or the entire body. I can add people more pets or complex backgrounds for additional fees. I try to keep the add'l fees quite reasonable for you. The acrylic ones are on a narrow gallery wrapped canvas so that you have the option to hang with or without a frame. All that is needed to pop into a frame is some offset clips that can be purchased at any hardware store.

So, if you have been waiting for the right time for that really big portrait, now is the time! This is more money than I've ever donated for one painting.

It has been a while since I've given back - so I wanted to boost my good karma. : ) I'm also donating a 8x10 bulldog painting to Buddies Thru Bullies, Inc for auction - and a pet pebble to one other bulldog auction for May.

Here are some examples of my work.
Contact info
Email me here.. 50% deposit required

16x20 acrylic

8x10 Watercolor

11x14 Acrylic - still wet in photo

11x14 arylic

1 inch glass portrait

Adding fitness and weight loss to the journey

2011-04-26T15:29:00.000-07:00

As you know, I have been painting daily or almost every day for a year and one half. I have marketed at my computer sharing my link - posting my paintings for months on end. Painted more pet portraits than I can count and made a lot of people including myself very happy with my paintings. But, with everything there can be negative things that come from lack of balance. I've been on such a mission to become a known pet portrait artists, that I've let my health slide.

My left thumb hurts to grip a pencil, could be from painting so much, I don't know. My back hurts for months on end, and lifting anything over 20lbs seems to be a struggle. If you knew me, you would say, how is this possible? You have helped your husband build two homes have lifted more heavy things than any woman, you are such a work horse. But, I have lost all that muscle tone by sitting at my job 8hrs a day, driving 2hrs a day, and then painting for another 4hrs a day. OUCH!

So, now that I'm unemployed, and there is not a huge demand for pet portraits in the summer, here is my chance to turn my flab into fab! I have taken before pictures, ordered up a set of DVD's called Turbofire and dusted off the elliptical trainer. Weighed in at 183 lbs at 5 foot 7 inches - 50 years old soon to be 51. But life doesn't end at 50. I need to take control.

So, on my FB page I post pictures of the day, works in progress, and I'll now add my work in progress in my quest to lose 30lbs. I have always believed in sharing, so why not share this. Hopefully, by sharing I'll motivate myself and others to do what they want to do for themselves. Women are such givers, we tend to neglect ourselves.

If you have neglected yourself, join me in my quest for fitness, do something good for you!

Chest 42--arm 12 1/2--waist 34 1/2-- hips 42-- thigh 23-- calf 16 1/2
May 10th, can now do 40 minutes on the elliptical, back getting better, no weight loss or measurement loss yet.