The article was shared on July 4, 2022 by Team Subkit. See the full interview below or at the Go Solo Website
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in jewelry but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brigitte Hollinger, owner and designer of Brigitte Regula Jewelry, located in Media, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My company is Brigitte Regula Jewelry. It was founded on the concept of bridging the gap between fast fashion and high-end jewelry. I wanted to create something that had an element of fun but was wearable for any occasion and with a substantial feel. That’s why we work using high-quality metals of gold, sterling silver, gold vermeil, and only natural pearls and stone. We believe each piece should have a touch of luxury.
Our jewelry is truly designed for the woman of today. As she goes from work to home life to out in the evening, our pieces are meant to travel effortlessly with her. My goal is to make jewelry that stands alongside a woman’s elegance.
Tell us about yourself
For as long as I can remember, jewelry has always been a passion. As a young girl growing up in Zurich, I remember marveling at the store cases and shop windows. When I grew older, I pursued that passion with a four-year apprenticeship. There I learned about every aspect of the jewelry industry.
To be successful in sales, I quickly recognized a need for more languages and took up French and English. This opened the door to working at the incredible company Cartier. It was an unbelievable experience that opened my eyes to a whole new world of luxury and high-end jewelry. After many years with Cartier, I went on to my next chapter of life, starting a family and raising children. As a mom, I found myself exploring more facets of life, and it was during this time that the idea for my brand also came into focus – mixing luxury with every day. A perfect amalgamation of my two worlds.
My biggest motivation and reward is when a customer falls in love with the collection, and an individual piece speaks to them.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To still be in business. I started my company in 2012, and it’s now 2022. There have been countless challenges, both economic and personal, as well as working through a global pandemic. Through it all, I’ve managed to hold on and grow. I’m proud of what I’ve been able to overcome, and I’m ever inspired to keep going.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Staying clear in your vision. It’s very easy today to get sidetracked with the internet. The jewelry market, like everything else today, is so overly saturated. As much as it is overwhelming, it can also be inspiring. But it truly takes discipline to stay within your own vision.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Years ago, I was inspired by the words of Donna Karen in her autobiography. Essentially she points out that if you’re starting with the thought of success or fame, you most likely will be disappointed. Your passion, vision, and hard work will drive you to your success.
In running a business, I believe you need to be disciplined to show up and follow through. But it’s also equally important to be flexible and think outside the box. Different problems and situations will constantly present themselves, and sometimes the best way through is from a new angle.
There are so many things you can do today to grow and market your business, so many tools, and platforms. However, I think it all comes down to what you produce and how you treat your customers. If the product/work is solid, it will speak for itself, and if you provide consistent and honest customer service, people will remember. It sounds old-fashioned, but it’s true.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Starting and building up my own business has really opened my eyes to just how many amazing artists and talented creators there are - so many companies, more or less unknown, quietly making beautiful things. I think it’s so important to support this work when it inspires us and to shop what you love regardless of the label or brand name. That’s something that has really changed for me, and I would encourage others to see and try it.
