Today we’d like to introduce you to Shannon Koszyk
Hi Shannon, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began making jewelry when I was about 7 years old, it was a long process from where I started to where I am now. I have always loved making jewelry. In the beginning it was more of a creative exploration, I wasn’t planning on it becoming a business. Jewelry was my hobby, it was meditative, and it was more my therapy, I love working with my hands and so over the years I took classes to learn more. I always worked within the design industry in one avenue or another but I was more on the sales side which I did because I was good at it but I hated it. I was working with interior designers when they began asking me where I got the jewelry I was wearing and that’s where it all started. It was a happy accident that it became my full-time occupation.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The ups and downs come with the territory. The biggest obstacle I would say is having people copy my work and make it out of inferior materials for half the price. I know they say that is the greatest form of flattery but when it’s your work it’s not flattering, and it hurts your business and reputation. I’ve had this happen so many times and then people say, “oh do you know who your work looks like?” It’s so aggravating. I’ve learned over the years not to compare myself and just keep moving. You can’t let them get you down or it kills your sense of freedom which is imperative to all creatives.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I would say what sets me apart is that I make everything from beginning to end including the hardware, meaning the clasps and chains. I hand carve every piece in wax and then make a wax mold. There are a handful of pieces that aren’t molded and are made entirely by hand every time. I am known for weighty, chunky pieces, I love a simple statement, and I love a good juxtaposition. I make sure each piece is made to last and that each piece is perfectly imperfect. My work is inspired by history, and I love an underdog. I love to work with icons that resonate with people and help them feel stronger and more protected. What I’m the proudest of is still being here, it’s hard to be a small business but I love what I do and I am so grateful to still be here doing it.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I have never had a mentor; I just sort of figured it out as I went, and I think that’s what most artists / entrepreneurs would say. Mentors are a nice idea, but I think that no one else has your answers, you must figure it out by trial and error. Every time I listen to advice, no matter how good it sounds at the time I soon regret it. Trust your instincts, they won’t lie to you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shannonkoszyk.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonjkoszyk/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannonkoszykcollection/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5ezeMe-2jCWr4sLSBxRQsQ
Image Credits
I took all of the photos