One of the things I love most about my work is the opportunity to help women jewelry designers thrive. I say women because of the over 3,000 active customers at Nina Designs, at least 90% are women. I am also willing to bet that a majority of our clients are Moms. Designing jewelry is a wonderful way for women to work while maintaining the flexibility necessary to raise a family. When my oldest daughter was small, I had an office in my living room. As she grew up, I built an addition to the house and eventually moved into a commercial space. As my own boss, I had the flexibility to pace my business expansion to the needs of my family. And because beads are small, I could work at home for a long time before I needed a bigger space. All over the country, women are having similar experiences. So Moms, what do you love most about your jewelry business?
Nina's Home Office 1996
Nina Takes a Break 1996
You’re spot on, Nina! One of the things that I love most about my jewelry business is that it gives me the opportunity to be at home with my daughter…something that was a strain when I attempted to keep a full-time office job. She is already a big fan of Nina Designs. Whenever she gets into my supply box, she starts picking up every piece and saying “I like this. I like this. I like this…”
Comment by Aurora Palesca — September 15, 2009 @ 8:39 am
That is definitely one of the perks! One of my daughter’s first words was “beads” and at 18 months she already loves to “help” me in my studio. She loves trying on jewelry, counting beads, going to shows, and every time she sees a necklace calls it “Mama’s”. It’s a challenging business, but I can’t imagine a better way for her to grow up and learn the value of creativity, dedication, and teamwork.
Comment by Meredith — September 17, 2009 @ 1:17 pm
You are an inspiration! I am an aethetician by training and have been “beading” for over 5 years for the pure joy of it. Recently I was told that I would probably have to make a choice between jewelry designing or facials. Guess what I have chosen? I am now making jewelry at home where my son and 2 dogs love having access me. I enjoy therapy every day. Whoo ha!
Comment by Leslie hunstad — September 17, 2009 @ 5:01 pm