Why buy handmade? What's the difference between jewellery and tiaras that have been mass-produced and those which are handmade?

Don't get me wrong, there are many beautifultiaras and pieces of jewellery in the market place which have been mass-produced in factories.  Just because something has been mass-produced does not mean that it is worse than something which has been made by hand.

Some of the most popular tiara companies design their tiaras in-house and then have their pieces produced in the United States.  They're not cheap alternatives to handmade items and their tiaras are extremely sought after.

So what sets handmade items apart from the items made in factories?

First things first...

1. Buying handmade does not mean that you should settle for something which has been cobbled together.  Most artisans (like myself), who make their items by hand, usually spend hours perfecting their techniques, ensuring that every item is completed to a very high standard.  Each item is usually lovingly crafted, as people like myself are interested in offering the best product to our customers. 

2. Buying handmade also means that every item made is slightly different.  Without the use of machines which cut metals to a specific pattern, handmade items are almost always made to order, and because they are made by hand, every item is unique.  This means that no two items will ever be the same, so every customer can be sure that they are the only person wearing the item.

3. Following on from number 2, as handmade items are not mass-produced, they don't appear in shops all over the country or the world.  They are usually stocked in a few boutiques across the country, which means it is less likely that you will ever see anyone else wearing your tiara.

4. Having your tiara or jewellery handmade means that you can customise the pieces to suit your exact requirements.  So if you see a tiara or comb you would like, but it is only pictured in green and you would like it in pink or purple to match your bridesmaids, it is possible for these customisations to be made.

5.  Handmade tiaras and jewellery are often designed by the person making them, which means that if you like that person's work but would like something they don't appear to have, they can work with you to design the pieces to suit your individual requirements.  This means that your bridal jewellery or headdress is truly unique to you.

6. Handmade pieces don't have to be any more expensive than mass-produced tiaras.  Some mass-produced tiaras are incredibly cheap, but the problem is that they look cheap too.  My items have been priced to cover the costs of making them plus a profit, but I have worked hard to keep my prices reasonable and competitive.  I can also offer something to suit every budget, so that even if you have to mind your pennies, I can offer you something which will outshine any mass-produced item.

And finally, I believe that items that have been made by hand are special, as they have been made by someone who has used their imagination and special skills to create their piece.  Bridal jewellery is often seen as heirloom jewellery, to be passed down to future generations.  In a world where everything is mass-produced for huge consumption, buying something unique and handmade allows you to dare to be different.

Are you different? If you are, buy handmade and support talented artisans who put time, effort and love into making beautiful items especially for you.