Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Courtney Sutton, Founder of Northern Revival Co., located in Cobourg, ON, Canada.

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

Northern Revival Co is a one-woman business that focuses on creating beautiful, lightweight polymer clay jewelry and accessories for special occasions, gifts for friends and family, or neutrals for everyday wear. I consider every customer as a part of the Northern Revival community every time they choose to shop through all of our social avenues for either themselves or as special gifts for loved ones. Anyone who wants to elevate their outfit or is looking for a custom item will be sure to find something with us.

Tell us about yourself

Northern Revival co was actually founded way back in 2018, but in November of 2021, I did a complete re-brand. What started as a small side business in woodworking-making furniture and home decor has turned into a passionate love affair with molding clay into beautiful pieces of jewelry. I’ve always craved a creative outlet that allows me to make physical things and connect with others. This venture was a combination of a random purchase of clay and the inspiration from a supportive group that gave me the confidence to start anew.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

As a small business owner, I think that just starting was my biggest accomplishment. Yes, it requires start-up costs and materials, but it also requires you to get out of your comfort zone, somewhere I was very much stuck in. Luckily, I’ve also met so many other fantastic business owners who support and encourage me, and that in itself is something I’m proud of.

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

I think most business owners would agree that the hardest things that come with business ownership are time management and maybe self-doubt. As someone who works full-time and also owns a small business, it is sometimes difficult to maintain a healthy balance. You have to find the pockets of time here and there, especially when you’re the sole person maintaining your business. In most cases, you are the designer, the creator, the packager, shipper, photographer, marketer, etc. With the expansion of businesses on social media, it is difficult to both find the time to make content and also get it out there for people to see. Any business owner will tell you that doubt has crossed their minds, but it’s something you push through when you are passionate about it.

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

  1. You will never feel ready to start, but that’s where you begin. Don’t compare that beginning to someone else’s years of practice.
  2. Don’t be afraid to reach out to other businesses and connect. A lot of small businesses (whether they’re in your niche or not) can offer pieces of advice or resources that will help you run or grow your business, and having those supportive connections is a valuable thing itself.
  3. Show up as you. People appreciate authenticity. It’s how you grow a community of returning customers and attract a supportive client base.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Creating Northern Revival Co has been my biggest accomplishment. I’m so grateful that I’ve been able to connect with so many people because I took that leap to start. I hope to continue to learn and grow as a small business owner and am grateful I had this opportunity to share part of my journey with you!

Where can people find you and your business?

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

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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