Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melisa Estrada, founder of The Wayfaring Latina, located in Dallas, TX, USA.

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

The Wayfaring Latina is a handmade jewelry business that seeks to encourage endless exploration. It is for the earring wearer who loves travel, has endless curiosity, and needs a bold piece to add to her wardrobe. Earrings bring me so much confidence, and I hope that my pieces make my customers feel the same.

Tell us about yourself

I am a multidimensional Latina, and my mind is always racing. I have always felt the need to create something with my hands, but I never felt like I had found the right medium. At the peak of the pandemic, I got really eager. I tried so many hobbies until I finally landed on jewelry making. I instantly fell in love. My customers motivate me every day. My business has allowed me to meet so many women around the globe that encourage me every day.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment would have to be the consistency and hard work in general that I have put into growing my business. I started with 200ish followers on Instagram and sales from friends and family (which I am and always will be eternally grateful for) to around 16k followers and a flow of sales from people I have never personally met. There is something about that that hits different as a business owner.

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

I think the hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is knowing that there will be ups and downs and that you may have to weather them alone. Everyone tells you that, but you don't recognize it until you are there, and sometimes it can be kind of lonely to deal with it on your own. During those lows, I like to write down and remind myself of the highs. There are so many good things that come from my business!

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

  1. You're going to have to step out of your comfort zone - in so many ways. I knew from the beginning that I was going to have to show up and show face for my brand, but I did not realize the extent. Over time, I became more comfortable with it and now have new skills to show for.
  2. It is a marathon, not a sprint. You need to show up even when it doesn't feel like anything is happening. You will see people everywhere "blowing up," but the truth is they also started somewhere. It may seem like things happen quickly for everyone, but that isn't realistic.
  3. Always remember that it is your business. You get to run it how you want and for who you want. You won't be everyone's cup of tea, and that is okay! The right people will find you!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Running a business of any kind is such an amazing endeavor for those that want to feel complete autonomy for something. It will also push you to embrace the power of community and meet some pretty amazing people. It is a lot of hard work, but one of the most empowering and educational experiences.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://thewayfaringlatina.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewayfaringlatina/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/wayfaringlatina

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.