Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kellie Mogg, Co-Founder of Salty Sisters Designs, located in Tulsa, OK, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Salty Sisters Designs is a women-owned jewelry company that creates unique pieces using ethically sourced cured fish skin. Each unique piece of sustainable jewelry comes on a card stock with the species of fish and responsible contributing fisherfolk listed. We are passionate about sustainability, supporting a local economy, and empowering women in a male-dominated space. Our customers value the natural beauty of our jewelry and appreciate our commitment to responsible fishing practices. They are often outdoor enthusiasts and appreciate the story behind each piece and the recognition of the fisherfolk involved. Sustainability, community, and empowerment are at the core of our business.
Tell us about yourself
My love for the outdoors and passion for responsible stewardship of our environment has always been a driving force in my life. Growing up fishing with my family and my experiences living in coastal towns like Alaska have given me a deep appreciation for the importance of knowing where your fish comes from.
Together with my sister and co-founder, Krystal Sentz, we began working on Salty Sisters Designs with the goal of creating something beautiful and unique using a unique material that would otherwise go to waste. We saw an opportunity to promote responsible fishing and mindful consumerism through the creation of a business using cured fish skin.
What motivates me each day is the opportunity to start conversations about responsible fishing and making responsible food choices in an accessible way through our brand. I am also inspired by our customers, who share our passion for sustainability and appreciate the beauty and story behind each piece of jewelry we create.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Our brand is very proud to have a conservation message woven into our unique and beautiful jewelry. However, our greatest accomplishment is the community of anglers and outdoorswomen that we have built. Last year, we welcomed Elizabeth Baker as a sales representative based in Anchorage. Elizabeth is an adventurous individual, and her spirit is now contributing to the evolution of Salty Sisters. We also collaborate with Nicole, also known as @thatsaltyblonde_ on Instagram, who is a lobster fisherwoman who shares educational content about the lobster industry and fishing in her local area. We just get to work with really cool people in so many ways.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Juggling multiple responsibilities can be challenging. Krystal and I are fortunate to have complementary skills, which is helpful, but despite our best efforts, there always seems to be something to do, and at times it can feel like there is not enough time in the day to get everything done.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Give yourself a financial safety net before diving too deep into starting a business. If it has to be a side hustle for a while, that's great too. Just be ready to set boundaries about what you can actually deliver.
- Define your why. Look up: Start With 'Why,' a TED Talk by Simon Sinek.
- Find ways to make work easier for future you. Build systems and seek out efficiency tools.
Bonus tip: have fun :)
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.saltysistersdesigns.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaltySistersDesigns1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saltysistersdesigns/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelliemogg/
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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