Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Monica Zamora, Owner of Balaam Design, located in Saint Petersburg, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I design and manufacture a contemporary jewelry line with asymmetrical shapes and innovative finishes and textures, each piece interlocks with other pieces to create a unique look. Balaam Jewelry is 100% handcrafted in fine sterling silver by a talented team of skilled artisans in Taxco, Mexico. Our office is based in Saint Petersburg, Florida, where in addition to the collection, I handmade as well a limited edition of one-of-a-kind pieces.
Our customers are high-end boutiques, gift shops, jewelry stores, museums, and online stores. Fans of our jewelry include fashion-forward women with a sense of style and elegance.
Tell us about yourself
I love expressing myself through creativity in the fashion world. I love fashion! When I have an idea, I love to sketch it out on paper and then try to figure out how it can be made. That is how I started Balaam. I was born and grew up in Mexico. When I went to Taxco, for the first time, a city world-renowned for its silver production, I was awe-inspired and started down a path of jewelry design. The feeling of being able to create something beautiful from an idea is truly an amazing feeling. To see women flock to my designs and to see them wearing and loving my work is all the validation I need to keep me inspired to design new and unusual jewelry.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My business has allowed me to give back to the people of Mexico. My designs and production allow skilled artisans to practice their craft and provide for their families. I feel this may be the biggest accomplishment because it not only creates meaning for me but also supports my workers and their families, who are very important to me and are like family.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Each day has its challenges, and owning a small business is a constant struggle. Resources are always limited. There is never enough money or time to get everything you want to accomplish. Fortunately, I have always had the determination to work out the problems and keep at them.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Have a vision, purpose, and goals of what you what to achieve for your business in the future. Look for people you can learn from, ask a lot of questions, try to learn from other business owners' mistakes, and don't give up.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://balaambmz.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/balaamjewelry
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balaambmz/
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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