We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Meghan Gonoude a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Meghan, thanks for joining us today. Parents can play a significant role in affecting how our lives and careers turn out – and so we think it’s important to look back and have conversations about what our parents did that affected us positive (or negatively) so that we can learn from the billions of experiences in each generation. What’s something you feel your parents did right that impacted you positively.

I owe so much to my parents, especially when it comes to how I run my small business! Both of my parents worked in Customer Service, and throughout my life, I remember their stories about their jobs and experiences at work! I used to love seeing what a day in my dad’s work life was like when the company he worked for had “Take Your Daughter to Work Day”! I learned so much from them in terms of how to talk to people, and how to assist customers with any questions, concerns, or problems! My mom loves joining me for any in-person markets I am a part of. She loves talking with my customers and helping me out. She’s my biggest cheerleader and supporter! Unfortunately, my dad passed away in 2015, but I know he’d be right next to mom cheering me on and helping me if he could be!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I’ve always loved creating. My mom has tons of “Mystical Meghan Originals” that she loves showing off. I’ve been making her jewelry since I was about 3! My grandmother got me little jewelry craft kits when I was growing up, and we used to have so much fun designing and making jewelry together! Jewelry has always been an important part of my life. Back in 2019, I got into buying healing crystals, and I remember staring at a piece of labradorite and thinking “how cool would it be to wear this?!” I bought some wire, watched some videos on wire wrapping, and got to work! Over time, I created a unique style of labradorite pendants that I call my “Enchanted Forest” pendants. They have Czech glass flower beads woven into the designs.
I found wire wrapping so relaxing, and wanted to learn how to make other types of jewelry! I watched tons of videos and practiced a few different things, and now I make sun catchers, bracelets, earrings, hair clips, bookmarks, keychains, and even wine charms! I’m having so much fun with this and I’m learning so much. I love it! I try to make sure that I have something for everyone! I do a lot of custom orders, and try to really create exactly what my customers want. I take a lot of time to get each piece just right!
My pride and joy is my “Enchanted Forest” pendants. They started it all, and they will always have a special place in my heart. They’re just so different, and have a wonderful vintage and whimsical vibe to them. So many customers that have gotten one have messaged me to tell me how many compliments they’ve gotten, and that is what really makes my day. I love creating eye-catching pieces that encourage kindness and compliments!

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

When I began this journey, I focused a lot of my energy to online sales. I really took off with selling during the pandemic, so in person markets weren’t an option. I opened up an Etsy shop, and I did pretty well for a new business! I participated in crystal groups and created my own group, but it wasn’t until I began doing in-person events that my business really took off. I was so hesitant to do in-person events because I’m very shy and introverted. My friend Jen encouraged me to try them out, and joined me for my first one. I had such a good time, met so many people, and did so well. It was eye-opening! Now, I love doing my markets and pop ups. I love talking with people about what they like and helping them find the perfect piece for them, or for a gift. The in-person events have been a game-changer! I have a lot of loyal customers now!

Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?

I use social media a lot, and encourage customers to follow me on Instagram. I always make sure to tell my customers that I can customize anything, and will work with them to create exactly what they need! I have one customer who loves Angels because they have a very special meaning for her. She has purchased about 15-20 custom Angel sun catchers from me, and always tells her friends and family about my small business. Keeping in touch with your customers and working with them is so important for small businesses. We love our customers, and it’s so important to make sure they know that!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.mysticalmeghan.com
• Instagram: @mysticalmeghan
• Facebook: Jewelry By Mystical Meghan
• Other: TikTok: @megg0o