We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalie Frazier-Jackson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Natalie, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
In the crafting industry it is common to hear that you should specialize in a very small number of product types. Some even say that you should focus on one specific product ( ex. tshirts) While this can definitely be a successful business philosophy for many, I believe that it is a great idea to explore several different crafting skillsets and once mastered, add them to your repertoire of products and services.
When I started my business, I started making custom gemstone beaded bracelets which led to me making necklaces. Over time, my interest in expanding my skillset led to me to learn how to solder jewelry. My talent for making custom jewelry then led me to teaching others how to do it. My eye for beautiful gemstones catapulted me into becoming a gemstone beads supplier. And after all of that, I now host amazing events for jewelry artisans. provide coaching/mentoring to small business owners and offer other crafting supplies for those who want to start a business making sublimation products and glitter.
It is okay to explore various creative outlets. Some of them will remain as hobbies and that is okay but it is also a great idea to expand your business by offering a variety of product types. and services.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
It is my vision for The Crafting District to become a one-stop-shop for crafters. What has me the most excited is that we are quickly into just that. For artisans who specialize in beaded jewelry we currently offer the highest quality gemstone beads, seed beads and jewelry making supplies. For those who work with other types of crafts, we provide sublimation paper and sublimation blanks. Our sublimation inks are currently in production and will be available soon. For crafters who specialize in glitter tumblers we provide the most beautiful colors and sizes of glitter. Not to mention, we teach classes to show people how to do all of these crafts as well as how to use the Cricut cutting machine. In the coming months, we will also be including even more speciality crafting products. It is such an exciting time for us!
This road has certainly not been free of obstacles. I have faced many of them, especially as a woman in the male-dominated gemstone beads business. My current challenges are related to scaling my business and getting additional exposure so that I can span my national and global reach in the market. One of the key ways that I am overcoming these challenges in to pushing forward and not giving up. Also, I am consulting with my marketing expert and putting strategies in place.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Over the course of a week in this amazing city, I would be sure to take her to Papasito’s Cantina and Intermezzo’s for dessert and hot chocolate. Eventually we would make our way to Houstons and Mary Mac’s Tea Room. On a leisurely day we can take a drive along Peachtree so sight-see and take in the city. And you cannot come to this city that has such a historical legacy without visiting the home of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to start by shouting out my amazing husband, Monzell, or as my crafting community likes to call him… Mr. Bead Boss. Monzel has become more and more supportive of this entrepreneurial rollercoaster ride. I consult with him about many of my business decisions and he is really instrumental in the day to day operations of the business. Next, I would like to shout out Nya Anderson my marketing, branding, CRM consultant. Nya has definitely given me sound advice on how to improve my marketing as my company has grown over this past year. I would also like to shout out Tanya Bradwell, a fellow crafter and business owner. Tanya has been instrumental in me being able to plan out and have amazing events for artisans and crafters. Lastly, I have to shout out my supporters. Over the past few years, my community has grown quite a bit. My business would not be where it is was not for my loyal customers and supports. I truly appreciate all of the support.
Website: www.thecraftingdistrict.com
Instagram: instagram.com/thecraftingdistrict
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thecraftingdistrict
Other: Email: hello@thecraftingdistrict.com