Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tonya Cross, owner, and founder of Accented Glory, located in Salisbury, NC.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I’m an accessory designer whose specialty is natural hair accessory and Afrocentric jewelry designs! My primary creative muse is cowrie shells. These shells have African roots and portray a message of respect, honor, and inspiration. My customer is those who enjoy accessorizing with seashell designs!
Tell us about yourself
I’ve been wearing my hair natural (chemically unaltered) since 2001 and creating things by hand since childhood. I noticed that hair accessories in the retail setting was not “natural hair friendly” and catered to young girls. I was inspired to fill a gap and create accessory designs for adult women with fabrics and materials that would not dry out or damage natural hair. My love for handcrafting hair accessory designs later expanded into jewelry making.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is having my designs featured as Esty Finds on Essence, Martha Stewart Shop, and Refinery29! It has been a honor to be highlighted by these major media outlets.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balancing my 9-5 (Day Job), marriage, and entrepreneurship! Overtime I’ve incorporated processes and systems that help keep me from feeling overwhelmed.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
1. Done is better than perfect. Too high expectations of ourselves can heed our progress, which prevents us from getting anything done. So, the next time you're at the crossroads of perfection show yourself some grace and choose done!
2. Self-care is not selfish, but a necessity for self-preservation. Take time out to rest, restore, and replenish.
3. Ask for help. No one knows everything about everything. It’s okay to seek guidance and assistance. Having help will definitely save you time and energy!
Anything else you'd like to share?
I give back by sharing weekly marketing advice and tips with my online community of fellow creative women entrepreneurs. My hopes is that by sharing my experiences of building a brand, they can avoid or overcome obstacles as they strive for business success!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.accentedglory.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accentedglory/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyacross/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AccentedGlory
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AccentedGlory
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.
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