interview

I first came across with Elizabeth’s jewelry shop on etsy, Oia Jules through Hapa Time blog. I’ve collaborated with Jessica of Hapa Time and am a regular visitor of her blog. When I saw her wear this gold chunky chain bracelet with a natural stone, I had to click the link to see more.. After spending a few minutes on the site, I ended up buying this bracelet which I have worn almost daily since its arrival! Elizabeth and I chatted via etsy convo and she was kind enough to answer my questions about owning a small business. I hope you’ll enjoy the interview:)

Image via Oia Jule Facebook Page

1. Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I started my career as a graphic designer in New York CIty after attending art school at Pratt Institute. After a few years I moved out west to Los Angeles and continued my career as an Art Director working in the music, fashion and entertainment industries. I decided a year ago that I wanted to pursue my passion, creating my own jewelry line, as a full time profession.
I’m a super huge music enthusiast, lover of all things creative and tiny bunnies.
Also, I’m a mommy to the cutest, funniest 6 year old boy in the universe ; )

Photo via Cheetah is New Black

2. What’s the story behind Oia Jules? How did you get started?

I actually started the business with a friend from art school 2 years ago. She had just got back from a vacation in Greece and was inspired by some of the street vendors making necklaces there. Oia is in Santorini, which is where the name comes from. We started off making necklaces and selling them at craft fairs. Eventually the designs became more sophisticated and I opened the Etsy shop.

3. What is your typical work day in your shop?

Right now my shop is my home office. I usually get up, check emails, make a to-do list for the day. After breakfast with my son, I get start by fulfilling orders. I work while he is in school and then take a break when I pick him up. I usually start up again after dinner and continue working into the night.

Photo via Song of Style

4. Is this your full-time profession? If not, do you plan on becoming a full-time in the future? What steps do you plan on becoming a full-time?

Yes, I have been fortunate enough to turn this into my full time job. I love the schedule flexibility it offers.

5. What’s the best part and worst part about running a small business?

The best part is, well really the 2 best parts–schedule flexibilty and hearing feedback from a satisfied customer. It makes me incredibly happy to see pictures of customers wearing their pieces and seeing how they style them. It’s very rewarding to hear that someone loves something you’ve created.

The worst part is when an order gets lost in the mail!

6. What is your advice to a small business owners in a creative field?

Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t succeed. Take risks and pursue your passion.

Top left via Devon Rachel, top right and bottom via Hapa Time

7. What’s next? Any exciting plans coming up?

Right now I have teamed up with the new site called Style/Stalk. Its a sale site where fashion/style influencers pick their favorite brands to work with and offer pieces at special prices. I was lucky enough to be picked by Alicia, of Cheetah is the New Black blog. I love working with fashion bloggers! I’m also starting to branch out into retail. I’ve got about 5 retail stores around the US that carry Oia Jules and I am hoping to increase that number this year!