Susan Shannon
Everett, WA (USA)
Role(s):
Founder/Owner/Principal
S.S. Designs
Find More Startups
Startup
Location:
everett
Industry:
Manufacturing
Year Founded:
2005
Number Employees:
1-10 people
Business Stage:
Growth (not profitable)
Entity Type:
Sole Proprietorship
Description:
S.S. Designs has owned S.S. Custom Jewelry for almost five years. It has manufactured and sold one of a kind sterling silver craft jewelry. It's first true profit (earnings were more than costs) was in 2009. While good to finally be in 'the black', the mentioned profit was only $1,000. I determined that one of a kind manufacturing of silver & gemstone jewelry would never lead to a true money making, successful business. There are simply too many limiting factors (the greatest of which is my time and ability to single handedly make and sell jewelry!) Last Dec., I decided to launch Lim Studio with the aim of selling 18kt gold diamond and gemstone art jewelry. This company will do a very unique, artistic production line, keep costs as low as possible (manufacturing possibly overseas) and will seek retail outlets (small, posh boutiques, privately owned jewelry stores, high end craft stores) for sales venues. All market indications show that luxury jewelry sales are not only up, but that they were not hurt as badly as low end jewelry sales. Lim Studio will also provide a special line specifically catering to the wedding industry. Not only will the company offer a production line, but it will offer custom design services for prospective customers.
Where do I stand now? I have a complete line of jewelry designed and ready to manufacture (whose design took 12 months to complete). These designs are in the form of CAD files which can be sent directly to a manufacturing company for immediate production. I have invested over $30,000 (of my own capital into this business and am determined to bring this new company to fruition.
I need only a micro loan at this time ($30,000) to produce a sample line of my jewelry as well as some marketing materials in order to begin sales. My plan is to hire commissioned sales representatives to begin sales and to grow from that point. I am also seeking relationships with connected investors who might be in a position to help me launch more quickly.