Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kim Smiley, CEO of Kim Smiley Inc., located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

I create handmade lace jewelry, employing newcomers to sew it by hand in Toronto. I also run a nonprofit and foundation to promote empathy in public and private life. My customers are people of all ages and backgrounds, but I tend to attract people who are interested in improving the world.

Tell us about yourself

I’m an artist and social entrepreneur. My work as a fashion designer evolved from my experimentation as a mixed media painter. I am motivated by empathy. A desire to add more beauty and kindness to the world has always fuelled my passions. Providing meaningful employment opportunities for women and artists for a Living Wage continues to be a huge inspiration and blessing.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Opening a flagship store in midtown Toronto and surviving a global pandemic that forced us to close our doors two weeks after opening. We harnessed creativity and collaborative partnerships to not only survive but thrive.

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

Walking the tightrope of being a mother and entrepreneur, trying to give 100% of your heart and soul to both.

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

  1. Never give up.
  2. Block out the naysayers.
  3. Set goals and have patience.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Pace wins the race.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.kimsmiley.com/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/SapphoByKimSmiley
https://www.facebook.com/TheEmpathyEffect/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimsmiley/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SapphoByKim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimsmiley13/

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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