Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kim Syverson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Kim, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.
When I get creative blocks, I take a break from it. I usually do something I enjoy, such as reading, walk a trail/go hiking, working out at the gym, or hang out with friends and family. Sometimes, it’s even a trip or vacation!
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Years ago, I started a project making jewelry. I made bracelets and earrings as gifts for birthdays and holidays. The gifters would wear the pieces and people would compliment the jewelry! I was encouraged to sell the handmade jewelry.
In 2019, I started the Esty shop for Coastal Kim! Since Coastal Kim is located in Arizona, we use various gemstones native to the state in most pieces. Three of our bestselling bracelets were inspired by the cities of Sedona and Bisbee. They are unique to us because of the creative interpretations that went into the designs.
Last year, we ventured into a new jewelry category – anklets! Another bestseller of ours is the Genuine Shell & Blue Shell Anklet. We can’t keep them on the shelf!
Coastal Kim may have roots in Arizona, but my daughter’s heart and mine love the beach and ocean. The two blend well together, so we create jewelry in a bohemian beach vibe with Arizona roots.
We are a family and women-owned small business! My daughter is the “Color Coordinator” and helps pick out the colors.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Persistance, patience, and passion. Those are the three qualities I feel are most useful to own a small business.
I’ve been on Etsy since 2019. Persistance is my key to keep motivated! I find new ways to tap into my creativity to design.
Passion is something you add to give it something that other similar businesses do not have. If you are not passionate about your business, it will show.
Lastly, there is patience. Patience is extremely important in running a small business! It takes many years to establish beyond your good-hearted family and friends. There are so many amazing milestones along the journey! Just have the patience and trust in yourself.
Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?
A challenge the Etsy shop is facing – customers adding our pieces to their carts and not purchasing them. The pieces could be sitting in carts for days or weeks, then suddenly they are removed. It can be frustrating, but we are patient.
We know we offer quality pieces at resonable price points. To the wonderful customers that place orders, we appreciate all of you!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://coastalkim.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coastal_kim/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coastalkim1
Image Credits
Kim Syverson
