Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jessica Rausch, Founder of Jstar Jewelry Designs, located in Colorado Springs, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Jstar Jewelry Designs is primarily a jewelry collection featuring affordable gemstone and wire jewelry. Most of my customers are women from 25-45, but I'll make jewelry for anyone who wants to wear it!
Tell us about yourself
I started Jstar Jewelry Designs in 2012 because I saw a need for handmade gemstone jewelry that wasn't a luxury purchase. Friends and co-workers saw the jewelry I was making for myself and kept asking to buy it, so I turned my hobby into a side hustle. I started selling my jewelry through the boutique I worked in, which led to me connecting with a sales rep who started selling my jewelry to boutiques all over the Rocky Mountains.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm really proud of having grown my hobby into a big enough business that I'm able to run my business full-time. I have a spacious studio that serves as both a production space and a small retail shop, and I'm able to support myself and a part-time assistant.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Owning a business, especially a handmade product-based business, is a lot to keep track of. Keeping track of all the things you need to know and do requires organization, but figuring out how to organize the specific needs for you/your business can be a real struggle!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your "why." running a business is often super challenging, but if you think about WHY you started, it will be easier to persevere.
- Read (or listen to the audiobook of) Profit First by Mike Michalowicz. Learn your finances, or hire someone to help you with them.
- Your time is precious. You can't possibly do everything, so figure out what you can get help with and get it ASAP. Better tools, upgraded software, or working with freelancers can save you tons of time so that you can do whatever it is that only you can do for your business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://jstarjewelrydesigns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JstarJewelryDesigns
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jstarjewelrydesigns/
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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