As a Houston-based silversmith and jewelry designer, one of the most common questions I get is: Do you sell at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo?
And the answer is: No, I do not. Given that it’s one of the largest and most iconic events in Texas, it might seem like a natural fit. But the truth is, as much as I love the rodeo, there are several reasons why it doesn’t make sense for my business—at least not right now.
The Financial and Logistical Challenges
Selling at the rodeo is a huge commitment, not just in time but in finances. The booth fees alone are significant, and beyond that, there’s the cost of building displays, backdrops, and showcases that meet the event’s high standards, which would cost thousands of dollars—and that’s before creating any jewelry to put in them. For a show of this scale, I would need hundreds of pieces of handcrafted jewelry,—a massive undertaking in materials, costs, and time required to create them. To build enough inventory would require months of full-time work solely focused on this one event — something that isn’t sustainable for a handcrafted jewelry business focused on quality and artistry.
The Realities of a One-Woman Show
I am incredibly proud of the fact that I design, create, and manage every aspect of my business myself. But being a one-woman show also means making strategic decisions about where to invest my time, energy, and resources.
The Houston Rodeo is a 20-day event, requiring vendors to man their booths for 12 hours a day. And as fiercely independent as I am (and maybe a little stubborn), running a booth solo for that many hours, for that many days, simply isn't feasible. I mean, a girl needs to use the ladies room once in a while. Therefore, just to man the booth, I would need to hire a team—something I’m not yet in a position to do yet.
Staying True to My Brand
At Lisa Marie Studios, my mission is to inspire self-expression and celebrate individuality through one-of-a-kind and small-batch jewelry. Every piece I create is crafted with care, intention, and uniqueness in mind.
In order to prepare for such a large event, I would likely need to shift toward creating larger batches of the same designs, offering multiple versions of what should be bespoke pieces. While this wouldn’t be mass production in the traditional sense, it would still take away from the exclusivity and personal artistry that define my work. That’s not a compromise I’m willing to make.
In time, as I gradually build inventory, develop new designs, and invest in more unique turquoise, perhaps I would be able to create enough pieces for such a large scale event.
I Still Celebrate the Rodeo—In My Own Way
Even though I don't have a booth at the Houston Rodeo, I’m still deeply involved with the event. I volunteer on a committee and proudly showcase my jewelry every night through the outfits I wear, typically inspired by that night's performance.
Additionally, I’ve been focusing on pop-up events as a way to connect with customers in a more intimate setting. While some of the pop-ups I had hoped to work out this year did not come together, as is often the case when you are a small brand reaching out to larger companies, I’m excited to be participating in events in Galveston during rodeo season. If you’re on the island and looking to get rodeo-ready, be sure to stop by!
Of course, you can always shop online or reach out if you’d like to organize a private shopping event for a group.
Will I Ever Sell at the Rodeo?
Never say never! I absolutely believe that rodeo attendees would love a fresh take on turquoise jewelry with modern designs and an edgy elegance. When the time is right—when I have a larger team, more resources, and the ability to scale my inventory without sacrificing my values—I’d love to be part of such an iconic event.
Until then, I’ll keep growing my brand in a way that stays true to what Lisa Marie Studios stands for: authenticity, artistry, and individuality.
Thank you to everyone who has supported my journey so far. I can’t wait to see where it leads next!
