Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in accessories but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Liora Agronov-Moss, Owner of AMLiora Designs, located in Vancouver, BC, CA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

The name of my business is AMLiora Designs. I create unique floral keepsakes cast resin inspired by the beautiful nature of British Columbia. I make jewelry, hair accessories, trinket dishes, decor pieces, night lights, and more using real flowers and leaves.

My customers are nature lovers that want to remember a moment in time, a place, a trip, or an experience. My designs tell a unique story; each piece speaks to different people differently. For example, my favourite flowers to work with are Forget-Me-Nots that I grow on my patio. A lot of people have a specific memory or feeling that is tied to this flower. Some people lost a loved one, and this flower symbolizes their memory. Some younger people remember the Forget-Me-Not as their grandma's favourite flower and get it for her or her memory. Many people have personal connections to nature that they don't think about until they look at my products, and I can see their eyes light up. At every market, at least once, I get tears in my eyes from customers sharing their stories.

Tell us about yourself

I am an Industrial Designer and graduated from Emily Carr in May 2019, just before the pandemic started. I got my first job out of university, and in March 2020, just like many others, I lost it. It was a blessing in disguise. It pushed me to fill my day with making, making anything. I had a lot of art supplies left from my degree, including the resin. I saw videos online of people making jewelry with resin and decided to get a basic kit of molds and bezels from Amazon to learn something new. After making a few pieces, I started gifting necklaces to my friends. One of them, Lisa, convinced me to start a business. She would not take no for an answer. Within a few weeks, I had an Instagram running and created a website. I had a lot of help from the local community. I got a chance to sell my products in person at a local cafe, KAHVE. A local maker, small-business coach, and founder of an online market, Anahita Shahrvini, reached out to me to join her market.. and it went from there. I got a lot of love and support from friends and customers. People liked my story and motivated me to continue. Two years later, the constant love and support of my family, community, customers, and other makers keeps me going. I honestly love what I do!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

After about two years of building my business, I had the opportunity to work with the same cafe, KAHVE, which gave me my first retail opportunity. The amazing owners, Justine and John, offered me their whole retail space rent-free to build a small collective of local makers. I was so excited that they trusted me to run it, and within three weeks, I started KAHVE Gallery (@kahve_gallery). I had the opportunity to give back to other local makers by providing them with a rent-free and low-commission retail opportunity. I am so happy to have the opportunity to work with so many talented makers, run special events, and provide help to makers that are just starting their businesses.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I am more of a creative person, so everything to do with administrative tasks, website maintenance, and legal and financial stuff is harder for me. It is also difficult sometimes to be the business, and the business is me. It affects my business directly if I am away, sick, or just want some time off. Because of social media, there is also an expectation from small business owners to be available 24/7. I find that a bit difficult as well.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Do your market research in person. Step away from your computer, and go to where you see your customers being/shopping/living. See what else is out there and who your competition is.
  2. Find your community of makers/business owners. Honestly, I couldn't have done it without the amazing people I've met at markets, meet-ups, online workshops, and stores. Don't be shy to ask questions- makers love talking about their work.
  3. Sometimes, we all need guidance, and it is never too early to get help. Starting a business costs money and coaching or guidance is a great investment. Of course, it doesn't work for everyone, but it is worth a try. Having a coach to talk to about my crazy business ideas was a huge help. When you are the only person running a business, it gets lonely, and it is amazing if you have someone to talk to that understands you.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

During market seasons (summer and Christmas), it is best to purchase through Instagram by reaching out to me, as I am too busy to update my website.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.amliora.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amlioradesigns
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amliora_designs/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/am-liora/

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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