We were lucky to catch up with Brooke Turpin recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Brooke thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?
My journey has included executive positions at well-known brands including Giorgio Armani, Barneys New York, and Variety. These experiences weren’t just about climbing the career ladder; they were invaluable lessons that shaped who I am today. Yet, the higher you climb in the corporate world, the sharper the elbows become. It’s less about teamwork and more about guarding your turf. The fast-paced environment was exhilarating, but the constant politics? Not my cup of tea. I realized that mastering office politics wasn’t the skill I wanted to focus on. Starting my own business has allowed me to create the kind of environment I’ve always wanted to work in and set my own pace. It’s a decision I’ll never look back on.
But transitioning from the security of a large organization to the uncertainties of entrepreneurship? That’s a whole different ball game. Suddenly, I found myself wearing multiple hats—from sales to marketing to manufacturing—all at once. It’s a balancing act that can be overwhelming at times. And going from a well-known brand to an unknown startup? Let’s just say it’s been a humbling experience. Building brand awareness from scratch takes time, patience, and a lot of grit.
There are days when it feels like I’m trudging through mud, each step heavier than the last. But the thought of returning to the corporate grind? Not even a blip on my radar. The distance I’ve traveled and the vision I’m chasing keep me moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My passion for fine jewelry blossomed during my time as a PR executive at Barneys New York. Part of my role involved promoting the exquisite brands exclusive to Barneys, which were truly the epitome of excellence in the industry. They served as a constant wellspring of inspiration for me, deepening my appreciation for fine jewelry, impeccable craftsmanship, and outstanding design. Through my tenure there, I cultivated a discerning eye and a unique perspective that now drives my pursuit to create heirloom-worthy pieces of wearable art. While sales and marketing have always been in my wheelhouse, venturing into the realms of manufacturing, supply chain, and gemology was a whole new adventure. Obtaining my gemology degree became imperative, and it has enriched my understanding and appreciation of the intricate world of gemstones.
At INSPOCCO, we offer our customers a selection of one-of-a-kind fine jewelry pieces inspired by some of the world’s most renowned collections, all at prices significantly below those of big-name jewelry brands. How do we do it? By forging direct relationships with talented local artisans, sourcing gemstones from reputable suppliers worldwide, and collaborating closely with manufacturers, we bypass the middlemen and the hefty markups typically associated with the industry. The result? Unique designs that are truly treasures, difficult to find elsewhere in the world. We sincerely hope you’ll cherish them as much as we do!
Nothing brings me more joy than assisting clients in curating their personal jewelry collections. Whether it’s creating a timeless, unforgettable look from scratch or complementing existing pieces, I thrive on the opportunity to help clients express their unique style through jewelry. I’m here to guide you every step of the way as you build your own jewelry wardrobe, ensuring each piece is as special and meaningful as the next. Appointments are available in our West Hollywood Studio or by video. Book a consultation at Inspocco.com
How did you build your audience on social media?
As I continue to grow my presence on Instagram @chiefgemhunter, I’ve found I enjoy connecting with a community that shares my passion. Being naturally drawn to personal connections, I’ve made it a point to focus on nurturing my personal feed rather than chasing after trends or brand affiliations. Sharing moments of inspiration and genuine experiences has become the heart of my content strategy.
I’ve come to realize that it isn’t just about numbers—it’s about building authentic relationships and sparking meaningful connections. Each follower is part of the adventure!
While the path to growing a loyal following organically isn’t easy, I’ve learned to embrace the journey with open arms. Every like, comment, and shared moment is motivating!
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I’m lucky to receive plenty of referrals from friends and family. My husband, an Investment Banker, has also connected me with many of his clients who’ve become mine. People really value working with someone they trust, especially in an industry where honesty isn’t always guaranteed. In the fine jewelry business, it’s all too common to overpay unnecessarily. That’s where I come in—I love helping husbands find the perfect piece and taking the stress out of gift-giving. Making them look good and ensuring a hassle-free experience is what I’m all about!
Contact Info:
- Website: Inspocco.com
- Instagram: @chiefgemhunter
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bcturpin/