People frequently ask me for my No. 1 small-business tip, but who can say if they’ll be faced with the situations I’ve faced? The lesson that was the hardest for me to learn might be something other people never encounter. But since y’all want to know, I’m going to answer with a Pandora’s box of…
Words of Wisdom
Get Smart (About Custom Work)
In yesterday’s post on my Freud cufflinks, I mentioned that a client who orders custom jewelry from me will get a lower price if I wind up adding the design to my line. I promised a long explanation of that and here it is. Remember my January post about manufacturing costs and how larger quantities…
When Kids Ask Those Awkward Questions
If your child asks, “If drugs are so bad for me, why did you do them when you were a teenager?” I suggest you answer, “Because I wasn’t sure they led to stupid children till now.” WendyB: Answering idiotic questions with brutal honesty since forever. UPDATED: I didn’t include the Rachel Leigh Cook anti-drug ad…
Honestly! I Like White Lies.
In a recent article in the New York Times, etiquette expert Letitia Baldridge said of white lies, “I never would have gotten through life without them.” She’s consistent. Twenty years ago, she said, “A white lie is permissible for kindness’ sake.” Fleetwood Mac agrees, as do I. “Tell me lies. Tell me sweet little lies.”…
Unasked-For Advice
To the person who came to my blog by searching for “cheapskate > doesn’t want to buy engagement ring”: Don’t marry him. Ring © Wendy Brandes Photography by SquareMoose In general, I advise against marriage if a potential spouse inspires you to Google things such as “cheapskate,” “liar,” or “goddamned motherfucking asshole.”
Snipe, Dammit!
My peeps, some of you are driving me crazy with your complaints about losing eBay auctions at “the last second.” If you are serious about winning anything, you must snipe. A snipe is an automated, last-second bid. The people who are beating you out are most likely using sniping services (which eBay finds perfectly “legal”)….
Helpful Hints for Owners of Precious Items
I can’t remember which blog originally tipped me off to the Prada Fairy Bag controversy, but thanks! The ink on the bags can bleed if it gets wet. Prada apparently didn’t know that when they started selling the bags. Now they know, thanks to customer complaints, and hopefully salespeople are warning new customers. There is…
Don’t Get Taken to the Cleaners
Most gold jewelry can be easily cleaned at home with a soft toothbrush and warm soapy water. Or, if you are lazy like me, there are solutions that you can purchase. Never use harsh detergents or bleach. You can gently rub the piece with a soft, dry cloth too. You do not need to buy…