Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bonnie Jennifer, founder, and president of Bonnie Jennifer Jewelry, located in Brooklyn, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My namesake brand, Bonnie Jennifer, is dedicated to creating jewelry with meaning from the mind, body, and soul. My famous beaded collection is handmade with love in NYC, but I also specialize in creating personalized pieces and custom designs from fashion jewelry to fine gold. As a former social worker, it was important for me to incorporate giving back into my business wherever I could, so I branded #purposewithpurchase. My developmentally disabled sister is a huge inspiration behind the charitable aspect of my company. I often collaborate with different charities and can donate up to 20% of sales from these partnerships. I believe in the power of storytelling to do good and to bring PURPOSE to all aspects of our lives.
Our customers are women who like to spend money to help others for the greater good. The women pride themselves on giving back to the community and often are repeat customers. Some of our customers are new and purchase online. They tend to want to wear our classic gold ball collection, which can be worn from day to night. The demographics range from older millennials to older baby boomers.
Tell us about yourself
I was inspired by my mother, who was an avid collector of rare books, china, and jewelry. Both my maternal and paternal side of my family had their own business. My father, in particular, was a 2nd generation entrepreneur, and I always wanted to carry on the business. He retired in 2001, and it bothered me that nobody had taken over, so I decided to start my own company. In addition, I realized I was only going to succeed if I worked for myself. Entrepreneurship allows me to have peace, freedom, and independence.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Staying in Business. No joke. I wanted to give up many times because there are many challenges you have to go through. I didn't have a mentor and figured out everything on my own as I went along. I recently have decided to invest in my business, which will potentially open up many new doors.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Being able to balance work/life. Taking time to balance yourself is crucial for your mind, body, and soul. Also, retaining staff and making sure that you are getting sales every day. My goal is to get big enough so I can eventually be able to focus on my favorite part of my business which is creativity.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Start slow. ( slow and steady wins the race).
- Take risks. Trial and error are very important, and you won't know if you don't try.
- Hire slowly and Fire quickly ( I once read this and thought it was right on point) very important to surround yourself with staff who have the same vision and passion.
- Find your own niche and be you! Don't do something because it is trendy.. do it for the passion.
- "If you wait for perfect, you are hiding" ( quote by Seth Godin). Don't wait. There will never be perfect, so put it out there.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
You are never too old to start. So start!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://bonniejennifer.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonniejennifer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bonniejenniferjewelry/
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.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.
