We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Nataly Aponte a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Nataly, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today f you needed to find a key partner or facility – how did you find them, what was the process of striking a deal like and what would you do differently knowing what you know now?
My business spans vintage clothing, curated interiors, and handcrafted jewelry, and I’ve learned just how crucial it is to work with the right vendors. A solid reliable partner can enhance your vision, while a poor choice can compromise your reputation and drain your resources.
When I moved from New York to Los Angeles, I felt lost in the jewelry district. In NYC, I had a strong network of contacts, but here, I had to explore the area independently, rebuilding my connections from the ground up.
Eventually, I received an order from a brand I admired. Eager to fulfill it, I handed my molds to a production house that claimed they could meet the deadline, despite not having established a trusting relationship with this vendor. As the delivery date approached, I hurried downtown with anticipation, only to discover a complete disaster: the stones were scratched, the settings were dented, and the metal finishes were uneven. Panic set in as I realized I was facing a tight deadline.
With no time to address the issues with this vendor or find another I could trust, I quickly reached out to my network back in NYC. They graciously agreed to prioritize my order, but this meant incurring extra costs for overnight shipping and materials—all while being transparent with my client about the situation. In hindsight, I regret revealing the full extent of the issues, as it made me appear unestablished.
Ultimately, the pieces arrived late, and while I was tagged in a few social media posts, I never received a reorder. Looking back, I realize that I should have taken the time to find a reliable vendor before making any promises about delivery dates. This experience reinforced the vital importance of conducting thorough research, reviewing portfolios, and reading feedback before committing to a partnership. Trust is everything and just because the price is right doesn’t mean the outcome will be! You’ll end up paying in the long run.
Nataly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m an artist with a deep-rooted passion for expressing creativity through various mediums, including jewelry design, fashion, and interior styling. My journey into this industry began over 20 years ago when I started working as a Visual Merchandising Director for luxury brands in New York City. This role provided me with invaluable experience and exposure to the vibrant NYC fashion scene, which has profoundly influenced my artistic vision.
In addition to my professional role, I pursued a side hustle that involved reselling fashion and accessories on eBay. This venture allowed me to explore my creativity by designing my own jewelry and selling it at trunk shows. Over time, what started as a side project evolved into a full-fledged brand of my own.
I am most proud of the journey from a side hustle to a successful brand and the ability to create pieces that clients cherish and connect with on a personal level. What I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know is that my work is driven by a genuine passion for creativity and a commitment to delivering exceptional quality. Each project is a reflection of my dedication to celebrating individual style and enhancing the everyday lives of those I work with.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
An artist’s journey is often an inward exploration that manifests outwardly through creation. For many, including myself, it begins with an impulse, a drive to express something deep within that cannot remain confined. Each artist follows a unique path, shaped by personal experiences, inspirations, and the mediums they choose. In my case, the journey is fluid and multifaceted, encompassing jewelry, fashion, and interiors, all brought together under the concept of “Style Your Life.” The tools and forms of expression may change, but the essence remains the same—the urge to release creativity.
The journey evolves constantly, with each piece adding another layer to the artist’s voice. Whether through a piece of jewelry, a garment, or an interior space, every creation reflects my ever-deepening exploration of craft and vision.
Any thoughts, advice, or strategies you can share for fostering brand loyalty?
Building customer relationships is more than just making a sale; it’s about truly listening and remembering. For me, it’s not just about closing the deal and moving on—it’s about understanding the customer’s preferences, like their favorite colors and styles, and retaining that information for future interactions. These details help create a personalized experience that builds trust and loyalty over time.
The after-sale experience is just as important as the initial transaction. Being there for the client to resolve quality issues, handle repairs, or provide additional support is crucial. Doing what’s right, even if it means taking a small loss to meet the customer’s satisfaction, goes a long way in fostering lasting relationships. It’s about creating a bond that extends beyond the purchase, ensuring that clients feel valued and cared for throughout their journey with your brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://natalyaponte.com
- Instagram: designedbynatalyaponte
- Facebook: natalyaponte
Image Credits
F/8 Studios Long Beach, CA