Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewellery but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Eleni Inglis, founder of Shop LILY DAWN, located in Mission, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Handmade Gemstone Jewelry. All pieces are made with peace, love, and intention. My customers are primarily women who are looking for pieces to help guide them on their healing and spiritual journey.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Eleni. I’ve worked in the retail industry for nearly 20 years and have always enjoyed it, especially connecting with customers. I always loved making jewelry as a young girl. When our daughter was born in 2018, my husband and I decided going back to work wasn’t going to work for our family; this is when Shop LILY DAWN was created. I’m inspired by my Nana, Lily, and my dear friend Dawn. My Nana was always dressed elegantly in her silk blouses, beautiful jewelry, and pink lipstick, even up until the very end. This is where the softer pieces in my work are derived from. While Dawn inspires more of my edgier, funky pieces. Dawn always pushed me to follow and pursue my passion, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Then there is our sweet four-year-old daughter, Natalie, who keeps me on my toes and motivates me daily. I want her to see and learn that by working hard at pursuing your dreams, you can live a beautiful, happy, and fulfilled life.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm proud that I haven't given up. Starting your own business is scary; there is constantly something new to learn. Along with the business side of things, I also immersed myself in the world of Healing with Crystals. When I first started using Gemstones in my work, I had no idea the journey I was in for. Through incorporating them into my jewelry and wearing/using them daily, my business journey led me straight into my healing/spiritual journey, which I am so incredibly grateful for. I've struggled with anxiety most of my life, as well as fibromyalgia. The practices I've learned to help manage my symptoms will stick with me for the rest of my life, and for that, I am also extremely proud of.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Balancing my time and finding a happy medium between family/work/friends/self-care.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don’t wait for “the perfect time” to start. It will never come. Just do it.
- Immerse yourself in learning everything you can in the areas where you’re uncertain, i.e., building a website, marketing, social media, photography… the list goes on. YouTube has been a great source for me. Another great way to learn is to ask someone who is already doing it. There is a great community of entrepreneurs in the Fraser Valley; my only experience with asking questions has been positive. We like to help and lift each other up as much as possible.
- There will be many mistakes along the way; give yourself grace, learn from them, move on and celebrate all the little wins in between.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://shoplilydawn.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shoplilydawn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoplilydawn/
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.
