Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nicole Cowan. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Nicole, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Naming anything – including a business – is so hard. Right? What’s the story behind how you came up with the name of your brand?

My business, Sweetellabella, is named after my daughter, Elizabeth. She’s been my inspiration since she was a baby, and her presence in my life has pushed me to strive for greatness. Sweetellabella represents not just a business, but also my commitment to being the best I can be, driven by the love and motivation I have for my daughter. She’s the reason I work hard and always aim to improve. With Sweetellabella, I aim to create something meaningful and valuable, just like the impact Elizabeth has had on my life.

Nicole, 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 create jewelry and other gifts inspired by the beauty of nature’s flora and fauna. My journey into this craft was sparked by my inability to settle on just one material or medium—I found myself drawn to a plethora of materials, including resin, antique silverware, antique dishes, and natural elements like pressed flowers. Additionally, my passion for photography also intertwines with my creations, adding another layer of depth to my work. What sets my pieces apart is the unique blend of materials I use, resulting in one-of-a-kind pieces. I also wholesale nature inspired makes from other small businesses to make it more of a boutique feeling that goes along with my handmade items.

As a military spouse who previously worked as a vet tech, I understand firsthand the challenges of finding stable employment amidst frequent relocations. This led me to entrepreneurship, providing me not only with career stability but also the flexibility to prioritize being at home with my daughter. The nature theme in my work isn’t just an aesthetic choice; it’s a reflection of my belief that nature is the ultimate muse for art. Its beauty captivates people effortlessly, making it a natural source of inspiration.

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

As a military spouse, I’ve faced many challenges, but one story that highlights my resilience is how I’ve navigated moving my business whenever my husband’s military duties require us to relocate. Each move can set me back for months, which can be tough financially. However, I refuse to let these setbacks stop me. Instead, I’ve gotten creative, seeking out opportunities like selling my products at places like the Painted Tree boutiques. These ventures allow me to continue selling even when I’m not physically present. These challenges have pushed me to think outside the box, and I’ve discovered new ways to keep my business thriving, despite the obstacles.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building an audience on social media has been a journey for me, and it’s important to know that it takes time, despite what some experts might say. It’s like a double-edged sword—social media can help you connect with people, but building a real following doesn’t happen overnight. I focused on building a community that trusts me by consistently showing up and sharing valuable content. However, I also learned the importance of taking breaks from social media. Burnout is real, and when you start to feel it, it shows in your work. So, it’s essential to take random breaks to recharge and come back stronger. My advice to those starting to build their social media presence is to be patient, stay consistent, and remember to take care of yourself along the way. And… not every social media guru knows what they are talking about, so take their advice with a grain of salt. What works from one brand does not always work for another. Doing the hard work to figure out what works best for my brand has taken time and I still do not have it figured out to be honest.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sweetellabella.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetellabella_crystals/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sweetellabellacrystals/
• Other: Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/SweetellabellaJewelry/ Biosite: https://bio.site/Sweetellabella Spouse-ly: https://spouse-ly.com/store/sweetellabella/

Image Credits
Nicole Cowan, Sweetellabella