Each piece is designed and compiled by Naki and always made in limited editions, using the techniques developed over the years.
Below is a business profile on the business owner who was also an exhibitor at the 2inspire Ladies Day March 2013:
1/ Please tell us what is a typical business day for you?
Working at my workbench for a commissioned piece or building stock for
my website. Followed by updating my web content and follow up emails with
potential clients and booking events.
2/ What made you start the business and what steps did you take to start
operating as a business?
I went through a tough break up followed by a tragic loss, during that
time my eldest sister bought me a book on beading and suggested I did something
creative to help keep my mind busy and help heal myself through things. That
was almost 5 years ago. I went to hobby craft and taught myself how to bead and
made some earrings. Within 3 years I had launched a brand called Kizmet Jewellery
and was working on stalls and events and through word of mouth. I invested in a
Jewellery and Silversmithing and Manufacturing Diploma for 1 year (2011- 2012)
with Holts Academy. Once I completed that I organised my first professional
gallery showcase at Craft Central, (where I am a member) and had a selling
exhibition for 1 week. That was September 2012. It was an amazing experience
and validated that I was on the right track and progressing as an emerging
designer.
I just launched an online shop (6th February 2012) where my
work and products (all limited and exclusive) are available to buy online!! www.kizmet-designer-jewelry.com
3/ What would you say has been your greatest accomplishment in the
business world to date?
My first professional gallery showcase – it was probably one of the most
stressful events to pull together over 3 months, but, one of the most rewarding
in so many ways! It still makes me proud!
4/ What has been your biggest challenge in business so far?
My biggest challenge is being confident in knowing and believing the
value of my product and the worth. Price points are always a tricky subject!
5/What are your future plans for the business?
I would like to continue to grow my online presence. Source and locate a
small studio where I can work away from my spare room and consult with clients.
Work on building relationships with stockists and wholesalers interested in a
custom made, exclusive design service.
6/If you had to do it all over again, what would you do differently?
I have a day job in addition to my jewellery business… I need to start
dedicating all this positive energy towards Kizmet and less towards my
consulting business. (Yes I have two businesses!)
7/ What’s the best compliment you could receive in business?
Seeing people wearing my pieces with pride and joy!
8/ What advice would you give to somebody who wants to start a business
in your industry?
Be patient; build experience and technical skills to gain respect and
recognition. Know where you want to go with it and build on your strengths.
It’s a competitive industry, one built around trust and respect, but it’s a
small one and your reputation within it, is key. But, love the work you
do no matter what.
9/What or who inspires you in business and why?
I am particularly inspired by Greek Mythology
and universal / galactic influences whether that be through the zodiacs, folk
tales or poems. Anything that touches the soul and allows us to see our
existence with the universe or nature inspires me. Hence butterflies, twin
moons, The Muses, my heritage – it’s all connected in one way or another and
all that is reflected in all my pieces.
In terms of other designers, I have always
been inspired by Elisha Francis a young designer in the London circuit. She
works hard, gives back and has an amazing future ahead of her. I am also a particular fan of Simon Harrison
Ltd. I love his Frog Prince collection!
10/What is your favourite inspirational quote?
“Be the change that you wish to see in the
world” – Mahatma Ghandi
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