We were lucky to catch up with Amya Bourgeois recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Amya , thanks for joining us today. Can you share an important lesson you learned in a prior job that’s helped you in your career afterwards?

Before launching my own business and mustering the bravery to follow a creative path, I worked as a security guard. It wasn’t elegant, but it covered the expenses. My shifts were lengthy—frequently at night, remaining in one position or making slow rounds in vacant structures. It was the sort of position that allowed plenty of time for reflection.

Initially, I detested that aspect—the silence, the anticipation. I craved thrill, action, something that made me feel as though I was creating something. However, with time, I came to understand that the tedium was, in fact, imparting an essential lesson: the skill to watch and foresee.

As a security guard, you develop the ability to understand people. You observe little details—how a person holds themselves, the slight changes in posture, the atmosphere of an environment. You begin to foresee issues before they occur. It’s not merely about responding; it’s about understanding the broader context and anticipating possible threats.

I wasn’t aware then, but that ability would prove essential when I turned into an entrepreneur. Managing a business—particularly a creative one such as jewelry—demands that same level of awareness. You need to foresee trends, comprehend your customers before they realize their desires, and identify chances where others fail to see.

A particular moment remained in my memory. While on one shift, I was employed in a luxury retail store after closing time. I observed the store manager methodically reorganizing the jewelry displays—not haphazardly, but intentionally. He was crafting a rhythm, highlighting specific elements, narrating a tale through the arrangement of the items.

It dawned on me. The minor details—the presentation of an item, the atmosphere of a space—can determine the success or failure of a sale. Eventually, when I launched my own jewelry business, I utilized that lesson. I ensured my products weren’t merely available but were showcased in a manner that resonated with individuals. The manner in which I created my website, how I prepared orders, and even how I interacted with customers—all stemmed from that profound awareness of perception and experience that I unwittingly gained as a security guard.

The most significant lesson? Everything has its purpose. Even a position that seemed like a cul-de-sac back then was getting me ready for something better. It instilled in me patience, awareness, and the capability to remain proactive—abilities that now assist me in maneuvering through the uncertain realm of entrepreneurship.

At times, the teachings that influence us the most arise from the locations we least anticipate.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I began my journey in an entirely different environment—as a security guard, enduring long hours and feeling as though I was trapped. However, even in that position, I gained important insights into observation, patience, and attention to detail—traits that currently influence my jewelry design and business strategies.

My jewelry brand goes beyond mere accessories; it embodies storytelling, artistry, and designing pieces that genuinely connect with individuals. I emphasize presentation and experience, guaranteeing that each item appears unique from the instant a customer first notices it until they wear it. Whether it’s a standout item for a special event or a daily adornment that holds personal significance, I desire my jewelry to resonate as an extension of its wearer.

What distinguishes my brand is the purposefulness in every design. I don’t merely adhere to trends—I predict them. I explore how individuals relate to jewelry, the emotions it evokes in them, and I create designs based on that understanding. From the packaging to how I engage with customers, I consider every detail to craft an unforgettable experience.

I’m proudest of the decision I made to follow this passion with courage. It hasn’t always been simple, but constructing something from scratch, crafting items that individuals cherish, and witnessing my creations integrate into someone’s life—that’s what makes everything worthwhile.

For those encountering my brand for the first time, I want you to understand that my jewelry is crafted with intention and passion. It’s not merely a company—it represents my path, my enthusiasm, and my conviction that each item narrates a tale.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Launching my jewelry business was quite challenging. One of the hardest times occurred early when I put my money into my first major collection. I had invested months in designing, selecting materials, and refining every aspect. I was convinced it would be sold out. However, when I initiated it… virtually nothing occurred. A handful of minor sales came in, but far from what I had anticipated.

I felt like I had lost. Uncertainty? Could this dream actually be achievable? However, rather than giving up, I paused and evaluated what had gone awry. I acknowledged my error: I had concentrated excessively on the product and hadn’t created sufficient awareness. People required more than just a glimpse of my jewelry; they sought a reason to engage with it.

Therefore, I changed direction. I focused more on storytelling, illustrating the significance of my designs, interacting more with my audience, and improving my marketing strategy. Gradually, momentum increased. The identical collection that hardly sold upon release began attracting interest, and gradually, it completely sold out.

That experience imparted an important lesson: failure is not the finish line—it serves as feedback. Resilience is not about avoiding failure; it’s about adapting, learning, and moving ahead. Had I surrendered, I wouldn’t be in my current position, managing a flourishing business that genuinely engages with individuals.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

To genuinely support artists and creatives, society must view creativity not merely as a luxury, but as an essential need—since it influences culture, fosters innovation, and enhances lives. Here’s how we can create a flourishing creative environment:

Emphasize Arts Education – Educational institutions must allocate resources to creative initiatives equally to STEM areas. Creativity drives innovation and problem-solving across all sectors.

Finance & Assist Small Creators – Increased grants, sponsorships, and accessible funding options can aid independent artists and small enterprises in maintaining their operations.

Promote Just Compensation for Creatives – Frequently, artists are asked to create for visibility. Society needs to acknowledge that creative endeavors constitute labor—and ought to be rewarded suitably.

Establish Additional Public Platforms – There should be increased opportunities (both physical and online) for artists to present their creations, including markets, galleries, social media promotions, and highlighted chances.

Cultivate a Culture of Gratitude – Supporting artists goes beyond financial contributions; it involves active participation. Promoting, endorsing, and supporting artistic efforts contributes to the development of lasting careers.

In the end, a flourishing creative ecosystem begins with valuing and investing in creativity—not merely as amusement, but as an essential element of societal development and identity.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thebourgeoischic.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/amyanbourgeois
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amya.bourgeois?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/heyyitsmemya?s=21
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@amyabourgeois?si=Cp2mY3i_7tgzZnWw
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/PvHjyxsYzvNEVbj9A
• Other: https://linktr.ee/Amyabourgeois