Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in accessories but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa Scala, Owner of Lisa Scala Jewelry, located in Georgetown, MA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Hi, my name is Lisa Scala. I am an intuitive jewelry designer and metalsmith whose pieces are designed to honor our whole being. My handcrafted jewelry emphasizes harmony and balance through gemstones, metalwork, and crystals. I Infused my pieces with spiritual meaning and a connection to nature; each piece becomes your own, instilling you with healing power and positive energy. Nature and spirituality inform everything I do. The shape of a leaf, the cut of a stone, or a particular gemstone's healing power spark my imagination and drive my creative process.
When meeting with customers, I enjoy learning about each person's spiritual path and what they might find helpful. I'm able to guide them in selecting jewelry that reflects their individual style, inspiration, and inherent strengths. Seeing a customer connect with one of my pieces is such a great feeling. I would love to meet you and connect!
Tell us about yourself
Designed with Soulful Intention! That's my motto, and it's what creating jewelry has always meant to me.
I have been designing and metalsmithing for over 30 years, taking pride in incorporating healing and spirituality into all my work. My designs are inspired by the subtle beauty all around us and our strength within. I believe that every woman is a goddess and should be treated as such. On a personal level, I am influenced and motivated by chakras, the seasons, and the phases of the moon.
My journey began when I was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child. I found solace in art, which, amid my challenges, made sense to me. Colors and designs swirled in my mind, dancing off the paper and out of the gemstones. When I came to realize that not everyone can see the world as I do, I saw that dyslexia was actually my creative superpower! I dove into all things art—sculpture, painting, jewelry, metalsmithing, design—and earned a degree in jewelry and metalsmithing at Maine College of Art. My confidence grew, and the possibilities unfolded.
Today I am a successful businesswoman with my own gallery in Georgetown, Massachusetts. I've received awards from arts organizations and had my jewelry featured at high-end galleries across the US. I also run an apprenticeship program for aspiring jewelers. I own my dyslexia and make it work for me.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is that I still absolutely love what I do and that I am able to pass this knowledge on to my apprentice. This is a great way to stay fresh in your field and to keep learning yourself.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I would say that balancing my personal life and my business life can be a challenge. It's hard to shut it off, especially since I get so excited about new designs and ideas!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Follow your passion.
- Small steps.
- Remember self-care!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Making jewelry is an expression of my whole self. My designs come subconsciously, as in a dream. I can often see the finished product before I've even started. Other times, I find a compelling gemstone and design around it.
I use an old-school approach, drawing my designs with pencil and paper, noting the metals, gemstones, sizing, and possible design variations. Some of my ideas expand into themed collections, while others become one-of-a-kind pieces.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://lisascala.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisascalajewelry
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisa_scala_jewelry/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisascala/
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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