Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dalia Lash, director of Mark Lash, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.

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

MARK LASH is a Canadian-owned independent jewelry store specializing in engagement rings, wedding bands, diamonds, and custom designs with a fabulous selection of fine and lifestyle jewelry. MARK LASH  prides itself on its attention to detail, quality workmanship, and personalized service. Staying on top of current trends allows our curated selection to always stay current, relevant, and stylish. Our customers range from couples who are getting engaged, clients celebrating birthdays, milestones, attending events, or other precious moments, and those who simply love jewelry! We also have many clients who want to redesign existing jewelry or heirlooms into new, updated pieces for more frequent wear. Our lifestyle collection of jewelry is perfect for everyday living and creating a more fashionable up to date look. MARK LASH also offers ear piercing…introducing our customers to the brand at an early age!

Tell us about yourself

I am a third-generation jeweler and grew up learning about the industry first-hand. I have always loved fashion and believe that jewelry elevates and adds the finishing touch to any outfit. I love to keep on top of trends and pride myself on always having the latest available in store. I am a diamond specialist and gemologist and particularly enjoy assisting customers with custom design; it is incredibly rewarding to collaborate with customers and to see their vision and designs come to life. I also love styling my clients—whether it be for a special event and needing the “right” pieces to compliment an outfit or creating an everyday collection that suits their individual lifestyle and needs.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

We have been in business for over 30 years, and that, in itself, is a testament to the hard work and commitment that we have invested into our business and the relationships we have forged with our clients, who continue to choose MARK LASH as their jeweler. Long-standing customers and community referrals prove that we are trusted and respected by our clients and within the industry. I am also proud of the fact that I have been nominated two years in a row for the RBC Canadian Entrepreneur award,  “Women of Influence.”

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

Running a business is a 24/7 job. It is often challenging to balance work and personal life. Being able to adapt and pivot when faced with challenges—big or small— and rise to the occasion to continue to give our customers the best possible experience. There is so much behind the scenes planning, hard work, and day-to-day minutiae that goes into running a successful business so staying organized, focused, and disciplined is key to success.

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

  1. Be prepared to give 100% at all times and surround yourself with a dedicated, responsible team who are passionate and share your goals for success.
  2. Be a role model for your staff by approaching every day with a positive attitude, professionalism, and a desire to drive the business forward.
  3. Build trustworthy relationships and connections with your clients; with social media and online shopping, people still appreciate the human interaction and the attention to detail that comes with personalized service.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://marklash.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkLashJewelry
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marklashjewelry/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mark-lash/

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.