We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kristen Powelson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kristen below.

Hi Kristen, thanks for joining us today. One of the things we most admire about small businesses is their ability to diverge from the corporate/industry standard. Is there something that you or your brand do that differs from the industry standard? We’d love to hear about it as well as any stories you might have that illustrate how or why this difference matters.

There’s no question that someone could find a beaded watchband online with Amazon for cheaper. Small businesses, especially those hand making their final product, can’t compete with the Amazon’s of the world–nor should they! I know the materials, time and dedication that goes into each and every one of my products. My goal is to provide my customers with a unique and quality hand made product that they CAN’T get from Amazon. I also care about the packaging, presentation and experience my customers receive when they shop local with my shop.

Kristen, 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?

Hi, I’m Kristen! Owner of Jim & Ro Co. I’m a wife, mom and full-time HR professional. I also have a passion for crafting and DIY projects. I began hand making beaded Apple Watch bands in 2022 after becoming frustrated with finding a versatile band I could dress up OR down. Silicone could not be the only option! I fell in love with beading, sourcing natural gemstones and a variety of color schemes to go with my everyday outfits. I was actually never a jewelry or watch wearer, so the irony of my new obsession is actually pretty bizarre! I quickly realized that I might be on to something and decided to start making these beautiful bands as a side business. I named my shop Jim & Ro which is after my grandparents. They were my biggest cheerleaders in life and I know they would be so proud to see what I’ve created and become today.

Jim & Ro Co. specializes in handmade beaded Apple Watch bands, but we can take custom orders for different smart watches too! Most of our bands feature natural gemstones and are guaranteed unique.

We’d really appreciate if you could talk to us about how you figured out the manufacturing process.

Yes! All of our watch bands and bracelets are handmade by me. I started hand making beaded Apply Watch bands after becoming increasingly frustrated with the lack of feminine options for my Apply Watch. Wearing a silicone band with a dress? No way! There had to be a better option. I initially ordered a couple off Amazon for starts, I took note of the adapter types, beads used, and length of the bands to accommodate an Apple Watch. I also went to YouTube, where I learned proper techniques for beading and tying secure knots. It was A LOT of trial and error at first dialing in the sizing just right. Over time, I got quicker and more consistent with the use of beading needles and measuring each strand exact.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Local markets for sure! These events not only bring my largest volume of new clients, it gives interested buyers a chance to try bands on and look at our vast collection which is not featured in its entirety online. Even if they don’t buy that day, they will almost always grab a card for future reference.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jimroco.com
• Instagram: @jimandroco

Image Credits
@injoyphotography