Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda Lockrow, Founder of Amanda K Lockrow Jewelry, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I create jewelry designed to connect to the wearer's soul journey that can be worn and loved every day. I use responsibly sourced stones and love the story every piece holds. My customers come from around the world but are often choosing a piece for a gift to celebrate a special occasion, mark a milestone, for extra support through grief or a challenging time, and so much more.
Tell us about yourself
I took my first metalsmithing class at Syracuse University after my welding professor recommended it to me in 2001, and I haven't looked back since. I've worked in the jewelry industry for almost 20 years now, after graduating college with my BFA in metals. I've taken workshops and apprenticed to continue to learn and grow. I love creating, and that keeps me motivated to keep working on my business. I also love connecting with my clients over the meaning a piece takes on for them. The stories that some of my pieces have been a part of truly touch my heart and keep me going through the ups and downs.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think right now, my biggest accomplishment is still being in business. Nothing could have prepared me for these past 3 years, and not giving up and closing permanently feels like my biggest accomplishment today.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I think all the different hats you have to wear as a small business owner are the hardest thing. I started my business with such naivete. I had no idea what it took to run a business, and I just wanted to make wearable art back then. I had to learn so much along the way. It might have been a lot different if youtube, business podcasts, and online classes had existed when I started.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start. Things are never going to be perfect, and they're going to change anyway, so jump in.
- Find a mentor or community for support. I'm so grateful for my mentors and community, and I would have given up long ago without them.
- Find your voice. You might not need a traditional business plan these days, but finding a niche and your voice can really help you make decisions as things pop up.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://amandaklockrow.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandaklockrow/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaklockrow/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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