Glassblowing Studio

         

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Interview with Jasmine Rodriguez, owner of the Glassworks Studio in Asheville, North Carolina.

1. Could you tell us a little about yourself and how you got into glassblowing?

I was born and raised in Asheville, and after finishing college, I stumbled upon a glassblowing workshop and became completely enchanted with the craft. From there, I started taking classes and honing my skills until I eventually decided to open my own studio.

2. What obstacles have you had to overcome as a small business owner?

Oh, there have been plenty! One of the biggest challenges we faced was simply getting the word out about our studio and attracting new clientele. We had to be creative and proactive in our marketing efforts, which included social media, word-of-mouth, and even hosting glassblowing event nights to draw in new customers.

3. How have you expanded your business since opening the studio?

We started off small, with just a few classes and a small showroom of our glass creations. But over time, we've expanded not only our selection of glass pieces but also the types of classes and workshops we offer. And recently, we've taken our business online by launching a Shopify store, which has really helped us reach customers all over the US.

4. How has Shopify helped your business grow?

Shopify has been a game changer for us. Being able to sell our glass pieces online has opened up a whole new marketplace for us, and we've been thrilled to see the positive response from customers from all over the country. It's also allowed us to streamline our sales and inventory management, which has made running the business much more efficient.

5. What sets your glass pieces apart from others on the market?

Each piece we create is completely unique and handmade with the utmost care and attention to detail. We're also constantly experimenting with new techniques and designs to keep things fresh and exciting.

6. Are there any upcoming projects or events you'd like to share with our readers?

We're always planning new workshops and events, so be sure to follow us on social media to stay updated on everything we have going on! And we're currently working on some new collaborations with local artists and designers, so keep an eye out for those as well.

7. What advice would you give to someone looking to start their own creative business?

Don't be afraid to take risks and trust your vision. It takes a lot of hard work and persistence, but if you're passionate about what you're doing and willing to put in the effort, anything is possible. Also, don't be afraid to ask for help and seek out guidance from those who have been in the industry longer than you have. Collaboration and community are key!

         

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