Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Barry Nicholls, owner of Paradise Jewelry, located in Naples, FL, USA.

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

We make people happy. We custom design jewelry especially for them. We also repair and refurbish their wounded jewelry. Our customers are all the people who are emotionally invested in the beauty of fine jewelry.

Tell us about yourself

My childhood fascination for gems blossomed into buying, collecting, and selling them in later years. That evolved into making the gems into beautiful and unusual wearable art.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Surviving 33 years in a very tough environment while earning the respect of my brother and sister jewelers.

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

Having to let someone go when they need to find a proper slot somewhere else.

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

  1. Always be honing your skills. Treat your competitors as a brotherhood, not enemies.
  2. Help anyone you can.
  3. Always answer the phone, return phone calls, and keep promises.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Take joy in what you do, and share that enthusiasm with everyone.

Where can people find you and your business?

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paradisejewelrystore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paradisejewelry_naples/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-nicholls-9ab68012/

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.