We were lucky to catch up with KRISTA SENA recently and have shared our conversation below.

KRISTA, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today One of the most important things we can do as business owners is ensure that our customers feel appreciated. What’s something you’ve done or seen a business owner do to help a customer feel valued?

The best thing I can do to show my clients that I appreciate them it to be there for them during the purchase as well as after the purchase or inquiry of any of our products. I absolutely love meeting my clients in person at our space in Mojave Flea in Palm Springs, CA , at Pop up/trunk show events and even during any of our Instagram “lives”. To see the joy on their faces as they speak about the jewelry, the meaning behind it, the reason they bought it for themselves or a gift…It truly is the whole reason why Hand Meets Sky exists. I hope to bring an experience to our clients with every purchase. From taking time to thoughtfully select the one of a kind jewelry collections we carry both online and in Palm Springs, CA to our candles and even our Home Collection. For example, one of our best clients resides in Palm Springs and he has a deep love of Turquoise and what HMS stands for. Through time and care, we have developed a relationship with him and on his anniversary, his partner reached out to us to help him purchase a one of a kind bracelet. The fact that he knew we could contribute to that special day meant so much to me. I truly believe that these are not just clients. These are relationships that develop over time and with great trust and nurturing. I want to provide something special and timeless. My hope is that my customers feel they are part of that.

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?

As a Fifth Generation New Mexican, I have the honor and privilege of partnering with numerous trusted Native American Artists (mostly Female). Each piece is hand crafted in traditional designs with genuine stones and sterling silver. Every jewelry item offered is trusted, authentic and most pieces are one of a kind. I believe in creating and curating elegant collectibles that will be treasured and passed on for lifetimes. Don’t get me wrong, I could never do any of this without the tremendous help and support from my husband and parents who do so much behind the scenes.

Up until a year ago, Hand Meets Sky was based in Sunny San Diego, CA. Living there was wonderful. We have a close community of friends, business partnerships and creatives there. However, New Mexico was always “home”.

My Husband and I made the decision to move back to my motherland, New Mexico. As we evolve as a brand and shop, being in New Mexico connects us to the place that inspired it all.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I think one major pivot for me was a couple of years ago. Originally, the concept was just turquoise jewlery. I became known for my vintage collections. Many customers would buy several pieces and come back consistently. I realized that there was a connection. Even customers that purchased just one piece, seemed to have a want to experience the Brand beyond just jewlery. I realized that what I was presenting was my lifestyle. I made the decision to pivot and not just soley focus on turquoise jewelry. I launched a Home collection on our website with pieces that I would want in my own home. I started to also collaborate with dear friends and others that I found extremely talented and shared some of my same visions. My passion and degree in Interior design that I had always kept seperate, now seemed to intergrate perfectly. This was a revelation to me as I began to see what my Brand can become. Taking all my visions and inspirations, not just Turquoise, and creating a true Lifestyle.

We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.

I keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty by being present. I personally write a handwritten note with every online purchase. So many of my clients are purchasing a timeless one of kind peice that they will treasure and have with them a very long time. I understand the importance and meaning behind this and I want them to know and feel that I have a personal connection to providing that expeirecne. Since music is a huge part of my lifestyle, I love creating Playlists to share on instagram and our email newsletters for seasons, events, holidays, basically any excuse. Music can be so upligfting, powerful and personal. It reminds us of times spent with loved ones and special moments. I never want them to feel they are shopping a store or buying from a company. I want them to know the Brand is me and I am here to support them and hopefully connect them to something truly special.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.handmeetssky.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/handmeetssky/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Handmeetssky
• Other: Tik Tok: @handmeetssky12

Image Credits
All photo images are by Chenoa Sedillo except the photo with the 2 necklaces – that one is by Roberto Espinosa. Thank you for crediting both photographers.