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

Shirley , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.

I gave birth to Shirley’s Designs Handcrafted Jewelry after getting laid off from jobs that had either had major layoffs, bought out, or closed. I was disappointed and frustrated because these jobs had sold me a story, and I believe it.

After getting laid off back-to-back from several jobs and how each one had looked me in the eyes and promised me longevity, this hit deep with me. I gave these employers control over my family and my life. They decided at any point to make changes to my life. Basically, I saw when the organization changed my life with it. It was not fair, and I needed to do something about it.

I took matters into my own hands and continued my education at an Online University. I Studied for a Bachelor of Science in Business, concentration in Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship. Through this, I learned how to apply everything a small business needs to get up and running. I later applied for my seller’s permit and business license to make Shirley’s Designs Handcrafted Jewelry official.

Not only did I birth my business due to a lack of disappointment from employers, but I also birthed it because the entrepreneur and my craft were inside of me naturally. The gift that is a blessing is not to be sat on – I have always had a deep passion for fashion—why jewelry, you may ask? Jewelry is special; it’s not just gift-giving—it’s memorable – they are keepsakes for a lifetime. Jewelry expresses who we are—they are statement pieces. Every time we wear a piece of jewelry – we send a message. I knew my business could work – because of the consistent delivery of myself and the unique designs I offered. I deliver outstanding customer service because I treat individuals the way I want to be treated (my mother used to tell me that) – I make each of my customers feel like they are my only customers. I aim always to pay attention to their requests and deliver beyond their expectations. I build relationships, and they become family.

My designs are different – I have an eye that sees beyond what others see. It takes that individual to see and want to experience the expression of who they are. This is how my customers are drawn to Shirley’s Designs.

I guess I was solving a problem, but not within Shirley’s Designs—I will say there is a lack of genuine customer service today. I naturally gave that. What excites me is that I love waking up, making myself happy, and bringing smiles to others’ faces by being unapologetically me.

Shirley , 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?

I got into the industry passionately because of my love of fashion and was blessed with a natural gift from God. I am self-taught – I have never sketched a design to this day. I knew nothing about the Artisan Industry. All I knew was that I loved the look of natural gemstones, and I wanted to know more about them. I would go to Barnes and Noble to read the books because I couldn’t afford to buy them then. Later, I created pieces, fell deeper in love, and knew this was where I belonged. There is so much to learn about this industry. I can tell you that I like going to fair tradeshows to hand-pick my stones, and I can also share with you that there will always be someone ready to steal your designs, too.

My business has always been “me, myself, and I.” You know that saying—you can tell your family and friends about your goals and dreams, and no one believes in you but you! Well, this is so true! If you have a passion within and believe in yourself, you need to be your biggest cheerleader! I had found myself looking for family and friends to help support or cheer me along the way—I received no support nor a cheer. This made me go harder and harder no matter what came my way. Several times, I had to put my business on pause – yep, to help out the ones who didn’t cheer me on. Did it put a damper on my spirit; of course it did. But it did not stop me – did I want to call it quits – of course, many times. No matter what – deep down inside, I had that fire and vision of the possibility; this is what kept me from quitting on myself.
Discipline starts with myself. I learned that if you want to run a successful business, you must get your personal life in order. Because you are the Business! Can that be done? I had to ask myself that several times. Yes, it can be done. I have learned how to use time management in my personal life and business. It’s very important to have structure in both areas—because if you don’t, there will be no balance, and it will be a dog chasing its tail.

My craft resonates with a gift from God. I believe he gave me this gift so I can bless others. My products range from bracelets to necklaces, earrings, rings, and personalized engravings. I use a wide range of natural materials: Rose Quartz, Tiger’s Eye, Black Onyx, Jade, Rainbow Moonstone, and much more. I have added digital downloads of SVG Art, Font files, and Daily Journals to Shirley’s Designs—which will launch in May 2024. My services include personalized orders and repairs. I customize everything from bracelets to engraving dog tags or charms. My turnaround time is five to ten working business days. I created it for special occasions and bulk orders.

What sets Shirley’s Designs Handcrafted Jewelry – apart from the others? As mentioned previously, I deliver outstanding customer service and offer unique designs. You cannot purchase it anywhere else. I treat individuals how I want to be treated– I make each customer feel like my only customer, leaving them with an exceptional experience and wanting to return for more.

I am proud of myself for not giving up on me! I am continuing to build my brand through social media, continued knowledge, and education. The main thing I want potential clients and followers to know is that “You will always be heard and treated with respect.” Communication between both parties is very important, and your request will be delivered professionally.

How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?

I have a client’s email list. And connected to some on social media. So when I am getting ready for a Sale or a New Arrival – I set up a mass email for all clients a week before release and two days before. On social media platforms – I create reels, stories, and posts. I may tag one or two of my return customers ( only with permission)

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

Building your brand on social media platforms – I opened each account under my business and got familiar with the tools. I looked up accounts like mine and started following them – then I connected to personal accounts that were talking about jewelry. I was already connected to personal individuals, and when I posted, I asked if they could like or share. In addition – I followed top content creators who taught the latest prompts, hashtags and SEO Keywords for your brand. From there, I took it upon myself to navigate my brand by adding in live and videos, bringing my presence.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.shirleys-designs.com
• Instagram: http://instagram.com/shirleysdesigns
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shirleysdesignshandcraftedjewelry
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shirleymartinez10/
• Twitter: thttps://www.twitter.com/designsshirleys

Image Credits

Shirley Martinez