Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jeff Fulkerson, Founder of Fulkerson Art, located in Chattanooga, TN, USA.

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

I'm a metalsmith and lapidary artist. I like creating jewelry that you won't find at the mall. My art is for everyone who likes jewelry.

Tell us about yourself

I started silversmithing at 16 because I wanted a silver and turquoise cuff & couldn't afford one, so I got a book and made my own. I find inspiration all around in the ordinary and the extraordinary. I'm motivated by teaching others, coming up with new ideas, and figuring out how to translate the vision into reality.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say that my biggest accomplishment is that I still love to sit down on my bench and make stuff!

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

Deadlines. I don't do many custom orders anymore because I want to make what I want to make when I want to make it, with no one looking over my shoulder and asking if I'm done yet.

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

  1. Count the costs. How much capital do you need to sustain yourself until your business can support you?
  2. If you love your business, you probably won't take holidays like everyone else, and you'll love Mondays because you get to go to work!
  3. Tough it out when it gets rough; otherwise, you'll say, "you want fries with that?"

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://artistjefffulkerson.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artistjefffulkerson/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artist_jeff_fulkerson/

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.