Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Simons, co-owner of Carats To Karat, located in Nipomo, CA, USA.

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

Carats To Karat is a true Mom n' Pop Shop, owned by husband and wife team in Nipomo, Ca. We cater to anyone who needs jewelry services. We have two jewelers on staff that have been creating and repairing for over 45 years each! We also have two full-time watchmakers on staff that can repair Rolex's to Timex's. We offer skills and equipment most retail jewelers can not offer. We may be small, but we are mighty!

Tell us about yourself

As I said, my husband has been a jeweler for 45+ years. When we moved to California back in 2011, we opened our shop in Nipomo because there was a need in this small community. As for motivation, we are motivated by the people that walk into our store every day. Customers range from basic repair needs to engagement ring manufacturing. The joy in repairing family heirlooms and creating family heirlooms for future generations is some of the most rewarding work we have ever had. Jewelry is not a necessity, but it can be one of the most expensive items you purchase in your life. It not only holds a monetary value but, more importantly, an emotional one.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Providing a service that people appreciate and refer others to. Word of mouth is the crux of our business; it will make or break you. Our policy is pretty simple, treat others how you would like to be treated. We have been in business here since 2012, and even though the pandemic, we were busy because our community made sure we stayed open.

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

For me, it has been the learning curve of financial stability. This industry is cyclical; there are dead months where people are on vacation and are not around - so not coming in to have work done can cause a drain on the pocketbook. Being prepared to face those months by saving when you have blowout months, such as holiday times, can benefit you. As well as diversify your type of work. I sell over-the-counter buys on eBay as well as small creations we make year-round to supplement our income.

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

  1. Support the community you are in, and they will support you.
  2. Know your budget and stick to it.
  3. Find a niche that is just you and promote the heck out of it through word of mouth and an inexpensive freebie to give away with the first visit.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Believe in yourself, and others will believe in you.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.caratstokarat.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caratstokarat
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/c.to.k/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MARYSIM80775008
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-simons-427a1a110/

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.