Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fine arts and jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elizabeth Cook, owner of Handworks Gallery, located in Saint John, NB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a gallery featuring Atlantic Canadian fine art, fine craft, and fine jewelry. Our clients range from art collectors to the art curious. Representing over 100 artists, we always have a little something for everyone.
Tell us about yourself
I have been surrounded by art from a very young age, and I've also been brought up to find a way to actualize a business from what inspires me. From starting an education in Fine Art to commercial photography to business management... finding my place in gallery ownership was a very natural progression. To support independent artists is an absolute privilege, and I am honored to represent the work of so many wonderful creators. A former employer of mine once said, "Our job is to help people fall in love with a piece of art." And I have never forgotten those words. I love what I do, and I look forward to coming into the gallery each day, excited by the thought of finding the perfect home for one of the pieces waiting in the gallery.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is also very humbling. Making it through a very trying time by the grace of local support in order to have the gallery see 30 years in business this year. The gallery has had a number of very loving owners. While I've only owned it for four years, I'm so grateful that we've been able to continue supporting our artists no matter what.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Truthfully? Getting my local competitors to believe that I want to support them too! I genuinely believe that the more we work together, the more people will come to the region to shop and explore. No one wants to come into town for one gallery. There is a saying that competition breeds good business, but I don't fully agree with that. I think complementary business breeds good business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
If we are speaking about a business that's the same size as what we do here at the gallery, these are my tips:
- Enlist a good bookkeeper and accountant. Be selective and make sure to get reviews, preferably from people who will have a similar structure in business.
- Pay your staff a good wage. You get what you pay for! I'm so proud of my team, and I know they are happy and feel taken care of.
- Act with integrity. No matter what happens, if you have to get back up again, you'll have a good name to support yourself at the end of the day.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
When others offer advice, listen (maybe write it down too). You might not use everything, but perspective is so valuable. Develop open communications with your suppliers, make sure to have clear expectations, so no one is left feeling misunderstood. Lastly, if a client/customer is having a bad day, don't take it personally. I have to remind myself of this sometimes because we want everyone to leave here feeling better than when they came in. That's not always the case, and often it's got nothing to do with us. Just remember that.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://handworks.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HandworksGallery/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handworksgallerysj/
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.
