Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Yoan Gehant-Vidoni, co-founder of Ecksand, located in Montreal, QC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
From the beginning, we knew what the purpose of Ecksand would be: to make the high-end jewelry experience approachable and sustainable. When we say this to our friends or customers, they often ask: "well, how do you even do that?" It's simple; we handcraft with the purpose of making lifetime-wear designs even more affordable, sustainable, and personal. Being a part of our customers' special moments is what the Ecksand team lives for, and never at the cost of the environment.
Tell us about yourself
I was passionate about jewelry and about offering something that would differentiate us from the rest of the industry. In our opinion, there was a discrepancy between price and quality. In addition, the effect the industry had on the environment and the lack of transparency was something we (Erica and I) wanted to help change. We wanted to create a fine jewelry brand that was sustainable and ethical, all the while offering the highest quality at the best prices. However, it was also crucial that Ecksand be environmentally cautious by reusing and recycling materials to decrease the amount of waste. As my wife says, "purchasing high-quality items that will last is the most sustainable choice you can make. A well-made item means one less thing in the landfill". Knowing that we're actively a part of the environmental movement and being a part of our clients' happiest moments is what motivates my wife and me every single day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
How we stayed true to who we are throughout the business's growth. It's easy to get lost when being faced with all the struggles of running a business. We've expanded and grown since we started ten years ago. As our collections and our product offering grew, we felt that being wary of our ecological footprint was crucial. That is why our Ecksand jewels are made with 100% recycled gold and conflict-free diamonds and gemstones. We felt the process itself was also important, which is why we offer the option of ethically mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds and do everything in-house from our low-emission Canadian atelier. Essentially, we're proud that we created something elegant, beautiful, and timeless with both the planet and people in mind. As a father, I wanted Ecksand jewels to be cherished for a lifetime and even passed down from generation to generation. I think we've succeeded at doing so, and I'd have to say it's my biggest accomplishment as a business owner thus far.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Trusting your instinct and sticking to your business plan no matter what.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The top tips I would give to someone looking to start, run and grow a business today would be to be passionate about your niche, do a lot of research and don't be afraid to make mistakes. It's an infinite process, be ready for a never-ending roller coaster ride.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ecksand.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ecksand/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecksand/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ecksand
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecksand/
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.
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