Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Emily Brown. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Emily, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
The key is to getting others to listen to you by creating a story that is relatable to everyone. My story in detail may not relate to anyone else in the room, but they can relate to having a passion, having a purpose, discovering what they’re truly gifted at, learning to struggle, learning best practices, etc. Everyone’s life is built up around the same basis of questions and obstacles, but it’s what you do with them that helps you stand out and connect with others.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I create beautiful artwork for decor purposes completely crafted out of leather! This artwork is not what you would typically see out of leather artists like western styled tooling, but it is chic and modern and makes a statement. I have been working with leather since I was 13 years old and I love the history behind the leather textile. Leather is so maluable and it’s fun to do something that no one else has seen before, a niche in the art community one could say. My work is heavily inspired by mid century modern design and I typiclly try to incorporate architectural elements into my work to create movement and balance.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Sales experience, Motivation not related to money, and a Uniqueness.
First, In my opinion, a solid base of prior sales experience or sales knowledge is key! I have years of sales and account management experience under my belt so I am comfortable asking for a sale and negotiating. Many artists are relatively shy when it comes to being out there, but that typically hurts them in the end.
Secondly, you cannot be motivated solely by money! Money comes and goes, and growing a business can be a lot of no money at the beginning. If this is your main motivation, you will be disappointed.
Thirdly and lastly, you must be unique! Sure, it could also be based on timing and if someone had never seen a product before, but true longevity comes from brands that differentiate themselves from competitors!
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely!
I typically partner with other leather crafters in the accessory or furniture business and buy/trade for scrapes. I also recently finished my first leather lampshade and am in the process of learning some type of CAD software. I’m interested in partnering with Interior Designers, Architects, Graphic individuals who can help with this process with best practices. I’d like to also collaborate with some lighting engineers or designers as I haven’t found the best websites for lighting hardware and believe I need some custom work done!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.eebrownleatherworks.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/eebrownleatherworks
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/eebrownleatherworks
- Other: TikTok @eebrownleatherworks
Image Credits
Hannah Kroeker, Kenzie Maroney
