Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry and accessories but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kariette Fleming, Owner of Mikari Designs LLC., located in Green Bay, WI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is designing and making handmade jewelry, decor, and gifts. My customers are anyone who appreciates and loves unique handmade items.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been creative. As a little girl, I designed my own clothing and even handbags, and my mom who is a seamstress brought my creations to life. She sewed and still sews a lot as a second job and loves it. My mom nurtured my creativity, always seeking my input and allowing me to help her. In 2019 I created a plan to start sharing my creativity with the public. I started out making just bracelets and necklaces. I then expanded by adding additional jewelry such as earrings, decor items, and other small gifts as planned. My motivation comes from a lot of different places. Sometimes I just want to see a completed design, someone showing interest in my creations, family and friends checking in and seeing how things are going, or even just some of the small creative groups I am in. Most of my motivation, however, just comes from being disciplined to complete the goals and plans I set for myself.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was being discovered and being invited to be featured on Local 5 Live. This allowed my business to have some visibility.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of my most challenging things was deciding where to spend my tiny budget for more visibility, whether it was marketing or a craft fair.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Always remember why you started and why you do what you do.
- Be willing to try or consider new ways of doing things.
- Don't be discouraged or stop because of bad reviews or criticism.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://mikaridesigns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mikaridesign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikaridesigns/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikaridesigns
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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