We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Zarena Rigby. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Zarena below.

Zarena, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I discovered the art of jewelry-making, silversmithing, and working with fire when I was a high school sophomore. Being an artist in various forms throughout my life has always given me a sense of purpose, even in moments devoid of any specific goal. Growing up in a small rural town did limit my opportunities to further develop my creative skills, causing me to set aside my passion until after I entered adulthood.

It was only when I found a job shaping stones and crafting jewelry for a shop on Main St in Moab, which no longer exists, that I truly realized my love for creating jewelry and working with stones. As someone deeply connected to the earth, I find a sense grounding in this form of expression. A couple years later, in 2016, I explored my creativity through making soaps and beard oils, aiming to specialize in body essentials. However, I never felt the same sense of grounding and fulfillment as I did when I was working with metal and stones.

When the pandemic hit, I felt the need to reestablish that sense of grounding in my life.. So in seeking that same feeling of grounding and purpose; something that required my focus and time, I turned back to jewelry-making. Encouraged by the support of my friends, I began crafting and selling themed collections that resonated with others. It was then that I decided to pursue jewelry-making professionally, despite the challenges along the way. While I may not yet feel completely satisfied with my professional journey, I am grateful to have found a path that brings me joy and purpose.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Oh, I think I may have already went into this detail in the previous question. #overkill. Sorry! Please let me know if I actually did miss the mark here. Thank you.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I am currently experiencing a shift in my business where I became too focused on creating and selling products that would appeal to others rather than being true to myself and enjoying the process. Taking a step back, I now have a fresh perspective that prioritizes self-expression and creating art for myself rather than solely focusing on others’ preferences and profitability.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

The books, videos, and resources are all valuable, but to be honest, the biggest impact on my management and entrepreneurial thinking has come from connecting with communities, small towns, farmers markets, and fellow small business owners. It’s those personal interactions, sharing advice, and lifting each other up that have truly shaped my philosophy. The warmth, knowledge, and inspiration found in these connections have been the most influential sources for me.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Instagram.com/moonlit.bandit

Image Credits
Myself, Zarena Rigby