Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chemi Choates. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Chemi thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
My first step is to research. I want to learn how it operates, the materials needed and so forth. To speed up the learning process, I watch tons of diy videos. From the product development team to the brand ambassadors. They are always great references for starter projects. I also like to see the tips and tricks of the everyday user as well. Also, don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
The biggest obstacle for me is creating my own marketing materials. Yes, I can save some money but is very time consuming. There so many designs to choose from and it can be overwhelming at first but you have to stick to 1 main logo so the public knows exactly who you are.
As a business owner, you will always need marketing and advertising materials. Especially holiday seasons.
Chemi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I started in the jewelry business because of my love of shiny things. I’ve always had a few pieces of jewelry given to me by my mom and grandmother. My mom always gave me a watch for Christmas and my grandmother gave me the nugget style rings. As time passed, I’ve owned classic initial, nugget and the infamous mood rings lol. I’ve also had Herring bone necklace straight from the flea market lol. Yes, 90s kid here! Fast forward to 2016, I created Chemi Couturier & Co. I created Shambala necklaces and braclets, rosaries and custom sports fan wear for men women and kids. That also included custom clothing and shoes.
As I revamped in 2020, I created Bél Charms. I focused more on charms and bracelets. The. Nova Custom Line began in 2022. This collection has custom nameplates, pictures and even engagement/bridal pieces. I have custom pieces for everyone, including babies. The metals are all hypoallergenic and nickel free pieces.
I want everyone to be able to afford the luxuries they desire, starting with jewelry.
How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
One word SUPPORT. Support doesn’t mean spend money but word of mouth can go very far. In today’s climate, a share or like can go very far. Social media has brought the world to the palm of your hand, you gotta find your target audience and produce quality products. I definitely see an upswing with big brands parterning with smaller brands. Smaller brands have a bigger voice now and can steer customers with one post. Right now, all you have to do is show up and be consistent with quality work.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect for me is showing my young men you don’t have to go to college for a degree, developing a skill or trade can help you start your own entrepreneurship journey. I’ve always express to them to be their own person. I will support them and advise but never control their narrative. My oldest has already started his Art journey, Art by Ted and I look forward to what my youngest decides. This is my biggest reward.
Contact Info:
- Website: Belcharms.com
- Instagram: Instagram.com/belcharms
- Facebook: Facebook.com/belcharmsatl