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Have it Your Way...


 I love watching custom car reality shows.  I like watching the team pull various talents together, I like the resourcefulness, and I like to watch an idea become reality.  But, I really, really, like the look into what it's like to pull thoughts from a client's mind, to shape those thoughts with hints of what they enjoy, to fuse everything with what will actually work, and, hopefully, create something fantastic.  This is really what custom is supposed to be about - adventure.  Like most adventures you embark on with a stranger, the first custom project with a new client or artist is exciting, full of possibilities and hidden expectations.


Clients have come to me with an idea for an engagement ring, a pendant, earrings, brooch or something innovative and new.  No matter the item, the conversations we have about musical tastes, favourite people, most memorable travel spots, and dreams for the future are what give me the information I need to create something beautiful and personal.  Usually, it sounds like a nice chat, nothing to do with jewellery, but I am hard at work collecting evidence for a style profile.


Once we are in general agreement about a concept, and I have an idea of the preferred budget, it's time to lay out some sketches for approval.  These are like mapped out suggestions for where we should go, and what we should do.  The thing to remember here, is that the budget and preferred timeline are like mileage.  You can go clear across Canada with enough time and money, but if it needs to be done quickly and you only have so much gas, you may have to adjust your plans to a really fun day trip.


When the design is set and the deposit has been paid (sometimes before the sketches, depending), it's time to relax.  I mean it, relax!  Especially if you are the client.  Designers/Makers may check in if an issue pops up, or an opportunity to improve the piece, but generally, this is a waiting game until the piece get its finishing touches.


Eventually, we get to the big reveal - the breathtaking view.  It's important to be honest.  Hopefully, you are honestly blown away, and cannot wait to tell the story of your wonderful journey to a beautiful piece.  That is the goal of any custom goldsmith anywhere.


What would you like to have made?








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