Today we’re excited to be connecting with Joy again. We’re excited to feature one of their products in our gift guide – learn more below and we encourage you to use your gift budget to support small businesses & creatives whenever possible.

Joy, we loved learning your story, but I think our audience is going to appreciate learning about the product side of your story as well. So, maybe you can help bring everyone up to speed?
I was performing in a show at House of Blues New Orleans and the emcee was wearing a bright red suit and tie. I felt like his outfit was missing a finishing touch of sparkle, so I offered to rhinestone his tie. After years as a stage performer and making dozens of my own costumes, I’ve acquired a substantial collection of top quality crystal rhinestones. He loved the tie, it looked fantastic on stage, and I felt really proud of my work. It was over a year later when I was staring at my Caboodle (yes, a real Caboodle) of rhinestones, when I decided to make a few rhinestone ties and bring them to sell at a show, just to see if there was more interest. After selling a few, I decided to make more and list them on Etsy. So far the response has been great! People have been ordering custom ties to wear in their own shows, give as gifts, raffle in fundraisers, for corporate events, high school band concerts, sporting events, and school events, weddings, and more. I’m now making neckties, bowties, bowties for pets, gloves, hair scrunchies, bags, and other apparel. And the rhinestones I use aren’t the inexpensive plastic stones you see in craft stores. I only use the highest quality crystal stones available, so my products have more sparkle than most of what you see out there. I’ve never been someone who enjoys crafting, but this has been a really enjoyable, creative hobby for me. I love seeing people wearing my products!

Who is this product for and who is it probably not a good fit for?
My rhinestone ties are gender neutral, but are traditionally a more masculine item. It’s not just women who like to dress up and like to sparkle. I’ve really enjoyed seeing the diversity of males who are drawn to my products, from teens to seniors. I don’t think there’s a whole lot out there for them in the sparkle category. My products are intentionally made for all people and now even pets, too! My pet bowties are popular for family photos and when pets attend special occasions, like weddings and celebrations. The products I make are a luxury item and not intended for every day use. Treat yourself or someone you love!

If you had to boil your product or brand down to one core message – what would that message be?
Life’s too short to be dull when you can sparkle!

Do you have any advice for folks who are just starting out?
It’s ok to start slowly, if you need to and if you can with what you’re doing. There may be benefits to investing a lot of time and money up front, but you can also be successful starting small. Test some ideas by utilize your existing network of friends and family. Request feedback and ask for their support in promoting your product. Begin with a small foundation that you can build on and shape over time. At a minimum, research potential competitors so you know what’s out there and how to differentiate yourself. Check your business name against available domain names and social media handles so you can acquire those or make changes if needed. You don’t need to know it all to get started.

Image Credits
PhotoPersuasion Joyful Accessories