Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dain Kim. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Dain, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?

If I were to start over today, there are several things I would definitely do differently to streamline my path to where I am now, and to do it with less time and capital.

Firstly, I would emphasize the importance of identifying or searching for one’s passion early on. Thinking about what you truly love doing from a young age brings clarity in life’s path and this clarity allows for more focused and purposeful career trajectory.

Next, I would stress the significance of maintaining a consistent aesthetic and honing in on one’s strength. A strong, cohesive portfolio not only showcases your capabilities but is also likely to attract the companies that you aspire to work for or collaborate with. This strategic approach can also help greatly when starting your own brand portfolio. Receiving comments from friends, family and mentors are always helpful, but in the end, no one knows more about your works and where your passion lies more than yourself.

The last thing I would do differently is to realize the value of acquiring the necessary tools. Earning relevant certificates is also helpful not just because it’s great thing to add on your resume but also setting specific studies goals to obtain the certificates serves as a powerful motivator to learn and develop essential skills.

By combining and utilizing these strategies I believe one can navigate their career path more efficiently and with fewer struggles and financial resources, ultimately achieving their goals in a more streamlined manner.

Dain, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Absolutely, I’m a young professional jewelry designer Dain Kim. Originally from South Korea, I’ve been in the Unites States for almost six years now, driven by my passion for studying and creating jewelry.

My specialty mostly lies in creating fashion jewelry, and in the past 6 years of my professional career I’ve had the privilege to work for companies that design jewelry for renowned brands such as Coach, Ana Luisa, Urban Outfitters, Disney, Steve Madden and Betsey Johnson.

What sets my work apart is the fusion of inclusivity, modernity with a touch of punk inspired playfulness with contemporary edge. For my personal designs I strive to craft designs that resonate with diverse audience, offering pieces that could be customized to wear in many different ways. Offering customers the jewelry that not only complements their style but also evokes a sense of self-expression.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being a jewelry designer is witnessing my creations coming to life from a mere sketch to a tangible piece of beautiful jewelry. There is an incredible sense of fulfillment and joy in knowing that my designs would adorn someone in their moments of special events or self-expression.

Seeing my jewelry featured on the brand’s website or retail sites are also another special experience you get when you are a jewelry designer. When you see someone picking the jewelry you designed up from Macy’s or seeing it on the neck of the stranger you meet on subway is a exquisitely gratifying confirmation that you are doing your job right.

The connection between my creative process and the impact it has on the individuals is what truly fuels my passion for what I do.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?

The biggest challenge non-creatives might have in understanding my creative journey is the skepticism, which was particularly evident with some of the family members in the beginning of my career.

Initially, they were apprehensive, concerned that pursuing a creative path might not provide stable income for financial security. It took time for me to convince and prove them the fulfillment and gratification I derive from doing what I love far outweighs the monetary considerations.

Also, it took time for them to realize excelling in one’s craft would eventually lead to stable income. However, the most important thing is the intrinsic rewards and sense of purpose that truly makes the journey there worthwhile. I hope this insight becomes valuable for others who may be navigating through the struggle of convincing conventional family members in having similar conversations about choosing a creative path.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.dainkim.com/
• Instagram: @dainkim1026
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/da-in-kim/