We were lucky to catch up with Sara Collins recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Sara, thanks for joining us today. Alright, so you had your idea and then what happened? Can you walk us through the story of how you went from just an idea to executing on the idea
The journey of starting my small business was quite random, yet meant to be. When the pandemic first began in 2020, I turned my days of boredom in quarantine into productivity, learning a new skill and putting my creative mind to use. I’ve always been an artsy person, from painting on canvases with friends to crotchet projects, including bracelets. I used to make bracelets for all my friends in whatever colors they wanted, and that simple gesture of seeing people I love wear something I made them made my heart so happy; its simple, yet I knew they supported me. From there, I wanted to push my boundary and learn more skills in the jewelry field. I took to instagram and Pinterest to get inspiration. I stumbled upon wire wrapped jewelry – crystals that are worn by wire that are designed in unique ways. I quickly learned and accelerated in this area and I loved it – and craved to expand even more. This is where my metalsmith journey begins.
I watched a bunch of videos on YouTube to learn the basics of silver smithing, and bought some of the basic tings I needed to start and practice. Once I got the hang of it, boy did I spiral I began creating SO much – rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, you name it. I found myself with more jewelry the I could wear for myself, and opened up my Etsy shop, Simply Bean Jewelry.
As of now, I have created over 200 pieces of sterling silver and gold-filled jewelry, participate in numerous craft festivals to showcase my art and meet people in the community, and now I work full-time in a jewelers shop along with running my small business.
If you would have told me 2 years ago that this is how my life would be right now, I wouldn’t be able to believe it, but I am so grateful for every opportunity that has lead me here!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Sara Collins and I am the creator of Simply Bean Jewelry – simple, elegant handmade, sterling silver jewelry. And no, it is not made out of beans.
My closest friends have always called me Bean. I knew that I wanted that name to be a part of my business because it reflects who I am, and the support that I have received from my fiends and family. Simple jewelry pieces have always been my go-to favorites because they are perfect for everyday casual wear or pairing with your cocktail hour outfit.
I had an uncle who was a jack-of-all-trades kind of guy, and a jeweler was one of his trades. I wish I could have learned from him, but I know I get a lot of my creativity from him.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
I started learning my craft during my last semester of college, where I was a biology major. Clearly, these two fields are not related in any way, but realizing I had a greater passion for art than science was something that I wasn’t something I could let go of. I needed to put all of my effort in this business if I wanted to prove to myself that I made the right decision, and I definitely do not regret it!
What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?
Definitely in person sales – I love any chance I get to meet clientele in person! The very first craft festival I participated in, I was very nervous. but it ended up being the best decision I’ve ever made for myself and my business! Since the summer of 2021, I have participated in about 20 festivals and I’ve met such incredible people along the way, from customers to other small business owners and tonnsss of dogs.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/SimplyBeanJewelry
- Instagram: @SimplyBeanJewelry
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/simplybeanjewelry