We recently connected with Tessa Blakney and have shared our conversation below.

Tessa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a business owner? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job?

I’m much happier as a business owner, but that doesn’t mean it’s all sunshine and rainbows every single day. I do have moments when I question what life would be like with a regular job- no risk, no late nights, no decisions to make. Whenever things feel overwhelming I remind myself that the grass is always greener where you water it- and then I get to watering! Reflecting on the last time I had that thought, It was a Monday afternoon, I was sitting in my studio- surrounded by tools, chains, and piles of unanswered emails. I was overwhelmed with handling outreach initiatives and preparing for an event that was later that night. My to-do list felt never-ending, and the pressure was starting to get to me.
As I sat there, I realized I hadn’t had a break in what felt like weeks. I started to ask myself, “Wouldn’t it be easier to just work for someone else again?” I imagined a set schedule and not having to juggle everything by myself. I’d owned a boutique before, and while it came with its own set of challenges, owning this jewelry business has brought a whole new level of responsibility. But as I sat with that thought, I started to remember why I opened my business in the first place. I realized that the moments when I questioned my business were the moments when I felt stuck and was losing the passion that initially drove me.
So, I closed my laptop, took a deep breath, and took a walk outside. I reminded myself why I started this journey. I wanted something different than the typical 9-to-5 grind. I wanted the freedom to create something of my own, something that would build my legacy. That meant accepting that every day is different, all while embracing the bad days and uncertainty. On the other hand- it also meant I got to call the shots, connect with people from around the world, and see my hard work turn into something gold.
Owning a business gives me a sense of fulfillment that no regular job ever could. So, I let go of that frustration, put on my favorite playlist, and got back to work. I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything.

Tessa, 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?

Silk N Honey Permanent Jewelry in Memphis offers a timeless way to showcase your unique style. We are a local gem that specializes in minimalist designs that celebrate connection and community, creating pieces that seamlessly blend with your everyday life. Whether you’re commemorating a cherished memory, celebrating a milestone, or simply seeking a meaningful piece to wear every day, Silk N Honey offers more than just jewelry, it’s an experience that brings people together. It’s perfect for mother-daughter bonding, best friend bracelets, or even couples looking for a special way to stay connected.

We use only high-quality materials to create pieces that are both durable and comfortable. Whether you’re drawn to 14k gold or sterling silver, you can trust that your jewelry will hold up beautifully over time. Our careful welding process ensures each piece fits just right and stays securely in place, so you can wear it every day without worry.

We take the time to understand your style and personality, ensuring that your piece is a true reflection of you. From the choice of metal to the design details, you can fully customize your jewelry to create the perfect fit. It’s an experience where your vision comes to life, making your piece as unique and special as the memories you’ll wear it with.

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

We proudly support local businesses, nonprofits, and the community, reflecting the creativity and heart of our city. When you choose Silk N Honey, you’re not just investing in a beautiful, high-quality piece of jewelry, you’re supporting a business that’s deeply rooted in Memphis and dedicated to giving back.

We stay connected with our customers through personal engagement. For example, we interact with our followers on Instagram, reaching out through direct messages and inviting them to our events. This personal touch helps to build a connection with our community. We also share our monthly pop-up schedules in advance, giving our followers plenty of time to plan and join us at our events.

To show our appreciation, we often offer discount codes and exclusive promotions, keeping our customers excited and loyal. Our partnerships with other cherished local businesses- ranging from popular bars and restaurants to premier spas- also help us foster a strong, supportive network. These collaborations not only introduce our brand to new audiences but also reinforce our commitment to Memphis as a whole.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale is all about creating a positive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated. A few key strategies that I believe are crucial are respecting their time, building personal connections, and celebrating their successes.

Acknowledging and respecting your team’s time is essential. Being mindful of their work-life balance, avoiding unnecessary overtime, and ensuring meetings are efficient and purposeful.

Going beyond work-level conversations and getting to know your team members on a personal level can create stronger bonds and trust. Take time to learn about their interests, hobbies, and goals

Recognizing their achievements, big or small, can go a long way in boosting morale. A simple “thank you,” celebrating milestones, or even a shout-out in team meetings can make people feel valued.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shopsilknhoney.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorDM2z7OdX7H0c5P_caAxEIMRsYWBkqQwLxf83TSd_UbuqBUZJs
• Instagram: @snhlinked
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/silknhoney