Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cory Kowalchuk, owner of Westshore Jewelry, located in Victoria, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Westshore Jewelry is Victoria’s premier destination for Quality Vintage Jewelry. We are a full-service Jewelry store servicing repairs, design, and formal appraisals. Our customers are our neighbors and friends. We bring value and style to the industry with a wide selection of Silver and Good Jewelry, Watches, and investable Precious Metal products.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up on Vancouver Island, and this is our home. It’s an honor to be able to serve our community members and organizations. In an increasingly difficult economic situation, people need to feel their best. We provide quality jewelry at a better price so our guests and pamper themselves and the ones they care for.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
As a business owner providing staff with an above-average working wage speaks to our responsibilities as business leaders. Supporting our community, whether it is a clothing or food drive, donating to the Royal Canadian Legion, or adopting a local family for Christmas. My biggest accomplishment is being able to be a part of a solution.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Turning off the phone and taking time for our mental, emotional, and physical selves is important. Balancing on a teeter-totter in a snowstorm takes effort and planning.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Number one is to know your customers and know your product or service. Two, it’s important to find a way to stand out from the cacophony of a noisy marketplace. Why should they choose you? “It takes a village….” Seek out your peers in the industry and build your network. One day you will need them, and if you are great, they will need you too.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.westshoregoldandsilver.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/westshoregoldandsilverlangford/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/westshoregoldandsilvervictoria/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/westshoregold
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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