So as you all know I love to support local and started a segment where we could share, learn and inspire! It is so important to support local and share your findings with others.
During lock down, we are going to do a whole lot of these to highlight these businesses – many of which are taking HUGE strain during this time – and shed some awareness and love to all.
I found the amazingly cool Smitted Studio and had to share! Their jewellery is hand made locally here in South Africa and is unique and gorgeous! Please give them a follow on Instagram and Facebook – they would appreciate the love and support!
We chatted to the lovely Nadien, founder of Smitted Studio and she had this to say to us!
Tell us a little bit about your business.
I had been making jewellery for fun for quite some time, but after a lot of interest I have decided to make a business out of it! It is lovely to be able to bring joy to others through my passion.
We are an online business that specializes in silver, brass and copper organic jewellery. Each piece is hand-crafted and may differ slightly, which is what makes them unique and special. Many people ask me about how I came up with the name of my business? The name is a play on the word “smitten” and the Afrikaans word “smit” (ie Metalsmith / goudsmit).
What are the top 3 learnings you have had to find out the hard way since starting your own business?
– Many people won’t believe in you or support you until you actually start doing well. Ignore them and follow your dream!
– Give yourself enough time to complete hand-made pieces. This is a process that can not be rushed.
– Equipment can fail, and sometimes you have to make your own tools and hardware
Where do you see your business in 5 years? Once we have gotten over the effects of the lock down.
I see it branching out to the global market. I’d also want to create a range of fine jewellery and engagement pieces by then. The sky is the limit!
What is your advice to individuals out there wanting to start their own businesses but are too scared?
– Don’t think that you can’t or that you need loads of money to start. If you want to put your feelers out there, start your business as a side-hobby. Put your products out there and see what responses you get.
– Stay authentic! Stay you.
Tell us 2 things that are the BEST part about owning your own business and make it all worth while?
– Making your own decisions and being responsible for the entire creative process
– When happy customers tell me how thrilled they are about their items, and order more! This makes me very happy!
How has lock down affected you, your business and your team?
Lockdown is a positive story for me, it is during this time that I started to really spend more time in production and putting things out there for sale.
It’s worth noting that Ecommerce in South Africa grew exponentially since March. Because of that, local people were starting to support local- and online business more. I am extremely thankful for all the support received during this time – the moment E-commerce opened up we had items ready to ship!
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