Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewellery but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tony, owner and head goldsmith of Independent Goldsmith, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.

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

We are a family-owned and operated jewellery store that has been open since 2010. We consider Independent Goldsmith a one-stop-shop for all your jewellery needs, whether you're looking to buy ready-to-wear jewellery, wanting to get something custom made, or looking to have a repair done. The store is run by myself and my wife, Vicky. Our two children also work at the store too along with a two family friends.

Tell us about yourself

I've been a goldsmith for almost 40 years now. I was about 15 years old when the craft of a goldsmith piqued my interest. There was a goldsmith in the small town of Vietnam that I used to live in. Every time I walked by, I couldn't help but just stare and observe. It was so interesting to see the details and precision needed to do this type of work. I really wanted to learn how to become a goldsmith, but I'm not from a wealthy family, and we couldn't afford to pay anyone to teach me. Luckily, we did find a goldsmith who was willing to teach me, and in exchange, I would do housework, chores, and errands for his household. Ever since then, I've been focusing on my craft as a goldsmith.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Personally, my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is being able to hire an additional member to join our family team. Even though our entire team is still relatively small - it feels like a huge win to me. It was one of those "wow, look at us now" moments. I couldn't be more proud of myself and my wife for all the hard work we've been through.

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

Since English isn't my first language, one of the hardest things was to prove to customers that my level of speaking English is not a reflection of my level as a goldsmith. It's definitely tough because a lot of people doubted me or believed I couldn't do things just because my English was a little broken or my English had an accent. I remember in my early years of being a business owner when I had clients booking a time to come in to discuss getting custom jewellery done. I would spend the nights before writing it out and practicing certain things I needed to say certain phrases or words.

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

  1. Network - reach out to someone who is already doing what you're doing. People are always willing to help; you just need to ask for it. It's important because these people have gone through experiences that you'll potentially and most likely go through, so listen to what they have to say.
  2. Passion - be passionate about what you do. It sounds cliche, but if you truly love what you do, it won't feel like work.
  3. Perseverance & resilience - starting a business is not easy, and success does not come fast. There will be times when it feels tough, difficult, and you want to give up - don't. Your hard work WILL pay off. I remember in our early years as business owners; there were times when we only made $10/day. It was tough - we had bills to pay, rent, supplies, a family to feed, etc. You just need to keep pushing and know it'll be better.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.independentgoldsmith.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/independentgoldsmith/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/independentgoldsmith/

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.