We’re a full month into 2026, but I’m still taking the time to breathe it in. Rather than rushing into the new year, my team and I have been visualizing what we want the next 11 months to look like. There is a lot of great momentum and creativity we’re carrying forward, and definitely a few things we want to leave behind in 2025.
Here are the Kristen Baird Jewelry 2026 Ins and Outs!
Out: Wishing I had a brick-and-morter storefront
In: Treating Gallery 209 as my storefront!
I’m so proud to be a member of this quirky co-op gallery that has been in operation for 50 years! You can find the widest collection of my work right on River Street. Honestly, I couldn’t pick a better location if I had my choice of the whole city.
Out: Trying to be Amazon Prime
In: Curating a sustainable and intuitive website
For years, I’ve been trying to offer as many gemstone options and variations as possible on my website. But with fluctuating precious metals prices and constantly changing availability, keeping my site accurate and up-to-date has become another full-time job. Now, I’m simplifying the site and encouraging more people to reach out individually for customizations. It works much better!
Out: Overbooking myself
In: Private Parties
I love doing festivals and trunk shows, but doing three back-to-back shows this year was exhausting. The honest truth is, not all events are equally fruitful for my business. This year, I’m going to be more discerning about shows to protect my time (and sanity). On the other hand, I’m going to put a lot of time and energy into private parties. Reach out if you’d like to host one!
Out: Not seeing my team in person
In: Meeting IRL!
Did you know that the KBJ team is spread all across the country? While I love having Abby with me in the studio every day, my marketing team is remote. I meet with them so often on Zoom that it feels like we spend lots of time together. This year, I want to get the whole team together in person. Not sure how it will happen yet, but it’s on the vision board!
Out: Tarnished and damaged jewelry
In: Everyone using a Speedbright!
This one is a little niche, I admit, but I’ve been getting so many questions from people about how to clean their jewelry boxes full of tarnished jewelry, and this really is the best tool for the job. Everyone should have one. (And no, they are not a sponsor!)
Out: Comparing myself to others
In: Doing things the KBJ Way!
After over a decade in business, I know what works and what doesn’t for KBJ. When I focus on custom, in-person, sentimental, and personal, we thrive. In 2026, we’re tuning out the noise and doing what we love. It’s going to be a great year!
