Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Cathy and Dan Cortez, Owners of Cluxe Jewelry, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

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

Cluxe offers both curated and handmade jewelry pieces, which are carefully prepared in our home-based Calgary office. All materials used are guaranteed nickel-free and lead-free with carefully sourced findings such as glass crystals, colored opals, faux druzy, leather, pearls, and even wood chips. The sensitivity of most ears is also taken into consideration; hence, all earrings are either made with 925 sterling silver or surgical steel posts. Cluxe pieces are created for diverse customers. Our past clients range from teens to moms, grandmoms, and even celebrity performers. You can expect that our accessories are elegant enough to wear on your special day and so versatile that you can wear them every day after (without breaking the bank😉).

Tell us about yourself

Cluxe /‘klahks/ is founded by a husband and wife tandem, Dan and Cathy Cortez, in September 2019. The name was coined from the words “classic” and “luxe,” which aptly describes the entire collection. We are fond of jewelry but of different types- Dan is into fine jewelry, whereas Cathy is into aesthetic jewelry. Bridging the gap between quality, design, and affordability gave birth to the brand. With only a few hundred dollars as a start-up, we took the leap and began creating our first handmade earrings as well as a handful of curated pieces. The brand is built based on the premise that a piece of jewelry should be versatile yet unique, modest in price yet elegant in design, and one that instantly adds confidence to the wearer.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Our biggest accomplishment as business owners is to actually have the courage to start and flourish in the midst of the pandemic. We are both employed full-time, but we always find ways to further enhance the business and never stop dreaming big for the brand, even if we are only taking baby steps at a time.

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

Fueling your creativity and striving to be consistent are the most challenging parts of being a business owner. No matter how much you love what you're doing, motivation won't be there every single day. It is something that you have to commit to do every day, and it entails discipline.

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

  1. Just start. Don't wait until you are ready because you will never be 100%. Growing a business takes time, and you just need the courage to begin NOW.
  2. If you are planning to start a business in order to avoid an 8-5 job, this isn't for you. That is a common misconception. Because running a business could actually take 24/7. Don't treat it as an escape
    rather treat it as something you'd love to do every day, all day.
  3. Take a breather as many times as you need. Whenever you get tired, just take a step back but do not give up. Your business will flourish even more if you know how to balance your time and take care of yourself.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Ask a woman what she likes. If she answers with “anything,” get her a piece of jewelry. Trust us; you’ll never go wrong with a piece of sparkle.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/cluxecreations/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cluxe
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cluxeofficial/

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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