Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Gayane Avetisyan, founder of Gayane Avetisyan Contemporary Enamel Jewelry, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I own and manage a jewelry business in Montreal where I make limited edition and exclusive enamel pieces. My customers are not concentrated on one platform but across the number of stores and galleries where my pieces are shown, as well as those who find me through my website. I find that my customers usually first buy my pieces for themselves to wear but will often return to purchase these items as gifts as well.

Tell us about yourself

I am a visual artist, having worked with ceramics, printmaking, and oil painting since I was young. Approximately ten years ago, while traveling, I was introduced to cloisonne enameling, an art form with which I instantly fell in love. I started creating works for myself, but then, with my friend's encouragement, I started to sell my pieces. I first started selling by word of mouth, and eventually, I started to attend exhibitions and fairs; today, I sell through stores, galleries, and my own website.

I am very passionate about my work and enjoy the creative process of making unique pieces. I am gratified when I sell my pieces when I see that someone wants to buy one of my pieces to wear – which I consider a very personal choice.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say that my biggest accomplishment is having galleries that I admired before I started creating my pieces showcase my works. I am, at heart, an artist. As a result, one of my biggest challenges and accomplishments has been to slowly master the business side, from contracts to purchasing to marketing.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

For me, it is a mindset. I started off thinking that my works would sell themselves. Now, I see that marketing, whether on social media or other channels, is necessary to reach my potential clientele.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. As a sole entrepreneur starting up, carefully separate your business and personal costs so that you can get an accurate picture of the financial health of your business.
  2. Try to differentiate yourself from competitors to establish your own niche in the market.
  3. Ensure quality at every stage of your work.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Cookies to everyone. But, seriously, if you are going to start a business, launch one doing something you love with passion.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.gayaneavetisyan.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GayaneAvetisyanEnamels
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gayane35/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.