Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elaine Kim Smith, founder and creative director of Lover's Tempo, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
At Lover's Tempo, we design beautiful, delightful jewelry that makes every day feel a little romantic. We get deeply curious about how we can bring joy to our community. We ask ourselves: will people's eyes light up when they see this, wear this, and hold it in their hands? It may seem deep for a small jewelry company, but we know that amazing things can happen when you feel your finest.
Tell us about yourself
I started Lover's Tempo as a creative outlet - I love making beautiful things with my hands. It's so satisfying to take an idea and turn it into something real. I'm motivated by my curiosity to learn. Having a small business allows me to explore different things every day. In one day, I'll be learning about digital marketing, new jewelry production techniques, and sales strategy all in one day!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is bringing together a great team of people who share the same values. It's so satisfying to come into work and see everyone working together for the same goals!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, it's balancing work and life. I love what I do, and sometimes I feel like it's hard to walk away. I feel responsible for the team and also for the business itself. I always say that Lover's Tempo was my first baby!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
I would say start now. When I started Lover's Tempo, I wanted things to be "perfect" before putting it out there in the world. I was my toughest critic, and it stopped me from starting things sooner and learning sooner. Having a small business is a long journey, and the sooner it starts, the sooner you'll grow and learn. It's really about the process. In the past, I would create these false finish lines, and I always thought, once I get to "here," I'll feel like I've done it! The truth is that line just keeps getting further, so now I've settled into enjoying the journey.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://loverstempo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loverstempo
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loverstempo/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lovers-tempo/
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.