The biggest thing I have learned this year is not to give up! Like many small businesses, 2020 has been full of challenges. I signed and locked in my lease only weeks before I had heard of COVID-19. The store was fitted out and we opened in May, in a tourism focused town that people couldn’t travel too. We adapted our business plan and really got involved with locals and the community. The South Coast is very community focused and local support has blown us away. After 6 months of trade, I am totally grateful for the challenges we were thrown and feel that the business is stronger as a result.
I would like to say that opening the business was my single proudest moment. In truth, I feel it every single day. When I step in the door, I am the proudest I’ve ever been. Every minor detail of the business is known to me inside and out. Every challenge, bit of hard work and accomplishment flashes before me and I’m extremely proud to be where I am right now.
A couple of months ago, a local gentleman rang the store asking if I would sell him some branded jewellery packaging. His wife loved the store and our creations and dreamed of getting a piece of jewellery. He planned to play a prank by giving her a ring from a gumball machine in one of our boxes. I don’t know too many ladies that would get that joke…lol. I know I wouldn’t.
As a gemologist, I have a love for all gemstones. In particular, coloured gems are my passion and above all I love tourmaline. It comes from several different places around the world and in nearly any imaginable colour, untreated. One of my biggest strengths is my eye for finding amazing gemstones that have unrivalled colour, cut and clarity. My mum would probably tell you my biggest weakness is buying too many of these gems.
Besides all the amazing people I get to meet, the most inspiring thing is their faces when I present them with their new piece of jewellery. No two pieces are alike and I still get excited, with them, even after countless creations.
There are so many things I love about running my own business. Flexibility and being able to organise my productive time is one big reason. Having three kids, a home and a business to run I don’t have time to waste. Being my own boss allows me to make every minute count when I need it to.
At Sara Handmade Jewellery we design and create stunning bespoke jewellery and heirloom pieces that can be passed down for generations. From custom handmade engagement rings to remodelling sentimental jewellery you’ve inherited but don’t wear. Our creations help our clients remember life’s special moments.
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