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Crafty Divas and Entrepreneurial Empresses
June 2004's Diva
Anita Ghatak
of www.indiosyncrasy.com
Indiosyncrasy was named out of the founder's love for her Indian culture. Using the principles found in Indian fashion and design of ornate patterns combined with vibrant colours, Anita strives to create pieces that maintain the traditional elements of the west with a flavourful infusion of the east. Her vision is that women from all parts of the globe--exceptional women with extraordinary appreciation for the fanciful and exotic--will be encouraged to add at least one Indian-inspired accessory to their wardrobe.
The basis for this work is to offer jewelry with a unique twist of character. The different collections are named for behaviors or traits that make women one-of-a-kind. Anita hopes that her jewelry will combine her passion for India with her strong sense of individuality.
Add something different, something unusual, something with Indiosyncrasies. Celebrate your own individual sense of style and all that sets you apart from the rest.
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The Gallery
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The Interview
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The Basic Lowdown:
Girlposse.com: Who are you?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Anita Ghatak, jewelry designer
Girlposse.com: Where are you located?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
In midtown Manhattan…New York, NY.
Girlposse.com: What is your creation / business?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Indiosyncrasy, specializing in handmade beaded jewelry. The artistic vision is to provide Indian-inspired jewelry and accessories to the American market.
Girlposse.com: Where can people buy your stuff?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Online at www.indiosyncrasy.com. Items are also available at different shows and fairs throughout the year.
Girlposse.com: Tell us something about yourself - your personality:
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
: I do love jewelry, but being a woman I'm of course obligated to also love clothes, shoes, bags, and other fun accessories. Shopping in general is a must. Nothing would bring me more happiness than to shop and be creative all in one job. As such, what else could be better than to have my own shop…buy, make AND sell!? I would love to have a funky boutique shop that features not only my own jewelry but also other Indian-inspired items, like ornate clothing and fashion accessories, rich luxurious fabrics, and decorative housewares. I would love to be able to include all these things in one store.
The Nitty Gritty:
Girlposse.com: How long have you been doing this?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
The business started in 2002, but making jewelry and being crafty has been a lifelong passion.
Girlposse.com: Beginning a business is a big step. How did this become a "business" vs. just a "hobby""?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
For years, I wore my own creations, but was not vocal about the fact that I made my own jewelry. That changed one day when a friend mentioned that she had been shopping at a high-end boutique where she admired a very expensive necklace. The price tag had too many zeros behind it but she desperately wanted it. I offered to make her a similar one and we worked on designing a close replica. Suddenly I found myself with customers who were offering me money to make more…within weeks a business was born.
Girlposse.com: Did you have previous business experience - or was the business end new to you?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
I have run another business but in a completely different area, outside the realm of creativity and arts. This business experience has been far more rewarding and satisfying, as it combines several activities in one. These are all things that I adore--shopping, creating, educating, meeting new people, spreading Indian culture, and making others happy.
Girlposse.com: Are there any resources you would recommend to future Entrepreneurial Empresses? (books, websites, etc.)
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
When you are finally equipped with a basic game plan as to what you want to pursue, the best strategy is to go online. The internet is now the best resource for gathering information. You can utilize it to find out about purchasing supplies, participate in shows, advertise, meet other artists, obtain forms, research business practices, and so on. It's been a huge help during this process and is critical for people who are new to the business.
Girlposse.com: What was (is) your biggest obstacle in selling what you create?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Judging your own worth and having the confidence to know that people will want to buy your creations can initially be a problem. Sometimes I find myself still struggling with it, but the praise and compliments from customers, friends, and family are always a big help and very appreciated.
Girlposse.com: Your jewelry is absolutely divine. Do you find it difficult coming up
with original ideas?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
I find a lot of inspiration in Indian fashion and design. In fact, I named the company Indiosyncrasy because India is my true passion and all my creative energy originates there. I love the ornate designs and rich colours.
Not every piece in the collection has obvious Indian influence, but the creation of the jewelry is really based on a fusion-the aim is to incorporate those designs and ideas into practical everyday jewelry. Some of the pieces are very ornate and some are streamlined and simple, to cater to variations in tastes and styles. Each piece has a little personality, a little indiosyncrasy. Women are all unique and so should be the jewelry that they wear.
Girlposse.com: Have you ever designed a piece that you fell in love with and just couldn't sell?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Definitely, it happens a lot. I make two--one for me and one to sell!
Girlposse.com: Are there any plans to expand your product line?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Yes, I am introducing a ready-to-wear collection that incorporates Indian inspired designs including chandelier earrings, matching necklace/earring sets, hair accessories, and also a collection of handmade evening bags.
Girlposse.com: What keeps you going on a bad day?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
My husband is my biggest supporter and always encourages my creative talents, even if it means sitting beside me all day in a school cafeteria or at a park in the hot sun so that I can sell jewelry. My mother is also a wonderful help, as my #1 spokeswoman and customer.
Girlposse.com: Where are some of your favorite places to shop?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
As long as it entails a good bargain, I'm not fussy.
Girlposse.com: What was the best piece of advice you've been given?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Give it a try.
Girlposse.com: What advice would you give to a future Crafty Diva?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
Research! Don't be impulsive. Find ways to obtain supplies at affordable prices so that you can begin your venture with the least amount of capital necessary and find ways to smartly invest the money you have saved. You could use it for website production, advertising, or vendor fees for shows.
Start small and host a few intimate shows at your home, your office, or a friend's house. This will help to get the word out.
Get professional looking business cards made, whether they are handmade, homemade, or otherwise so that you can be vocal about your new venture.
If possible, wear your creations…it's the best publicity.
Girlposse.com: Are they any other Crafty Divas or Entrepreneurial Empresses we should know
about?
Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy:
If you ever start a male counterpart to girlposse.com or are interested in featuring a male of the month, visit www.ethnochic.com for really affordable handmade totes, bags, t-shirts, tanks, baby clothes--very hip and funky stuff. It's definitely worth checking out his site. He's a real gem of a guy who deserves a lot of success.
~June 2004
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Your Chance to Win!
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This month Anita Ghatak of Indiosyncrasy is giving you a chance to win! Visit our Contests area for details on how to enter to win these beautiful earrings. Good luck!
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Are you a Crafty Diva and Entrepreneurial Empress? Or do you know one that should be featured in a future Girlposse.com issue? If so, visit our Crafty Diva Info Page for the details.
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