I used to love watching the world go by while riding in a car, when I was little. I used to wonder what each person I saw on the road was up to, where they were going and why, who they loved, what their lives were like. I would also, of course, wonder what my life would be like when I got big and drove around in a car.
I never knew my calling
I was never one of those people who knew what their calling was from day 1 (how I envied those people!). But I think I knew more then than I realized. I remember being about 10, doing the ride in my mom’s car to or from Mervyn’s or Sears or Gemco, when I suddenly had this vision of myself owning and operating a store. I wasn’t sure what kind of store but it was so real and felt so right and fulfilling that I remember that feeling to this day. I remember blurting out to my mom that someday I want to own a store! We talked a bit about it and went on our merry way.
I didn’t grow up and pursue ‘my dream’ from that day
I fell in love with computers and advertising and web design and electronic commerce. Being in Silicon Valley, I joined the high tech work force after college and worked my way up the ladder. It was fun. It was interesting. I learned a lot. I met my husband. Whew! I was living a pretty good dream! But I always knew there was something missing. I taught myself jewelry design and took a bunch of classes. This kept my creative side happy for a while.
After the birth of my 2nd cutie, I went through what a lot of new moms go through – how can I contribute to the household but still be a really good mom? What kind of work can I do that will make a difference in the world? How am I going to do anything with so little sleep?
My part-time status at my job was going away, so I decided to dive into the web design business I had started on the side. I loved computers and design so it seemed a perfect match for me. I had gotten trained and certified in web design at San Jose State and I had a few clients so it kept me busy and brought in a little money. Then along came blessing #3!
The spark
Along with him, my interest in jewelry design was renewed for the sole purpose of wearing some brag jewelry about my three cuties. At the time, there wasn’t much out there that was very cute, so of course I took matters into my own hands.
An obsession with jewelry, my kids and web design – guess what came next? I launched my hand stamped jewelry line and website and proceeded to work my patootie off while also committing to being the best mom I could be. That was ten years ago. Yes! We are celebrating our 10th year in business and guess what I recently decided was still missing? You guessed it – my storefront! So stay tuned as we embark on this next exciting chapter and work to bring our local customers someplace to go for a quick, personal and unique gift! I couldn’t be more excited!
Love the blog and your story. Can’t wait to see the storefront.