Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicole Recomendes.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
As a child, I was always the little girl that was selling my friendship bracelets in the cul-de-sac (perhaps not the best location for foot traffic – Hopefully, I’ve learned a bit about marketing myself since then)! I grew up to study Fashion Merchandising and Business at Florida State University and began my career at Versace’s U.S. corporate headquarters in NYC. I went on to become the head of their Logistics department, overseeing the import of merchandise from Italy through its distribution to their retail and wholesale locations throughout the United States.
My position there gave me a wonderful experience, but I always yearned to be my own boss. I left Versace in 2014 to launch a boutique style website, which eventually led to the launch of Allison Cole one year later. A little over three years into this business, the brand has really started to take off and is now carried in over 70 boutiques throughout the US and Canada.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I don’t think there is ever a smooth road to starting a new business and trying to launch a brand. One of the biggest struggles has been learning to wear every hat (design, manufacturing, shipping, customer service, marketing, the list goes on!) and trying to balance my time accordingly.
My advice for other women, or anyone just setting out with a big goal in mind, is simple – “Burn the ships.” By that I mean, commit fully to whatever it is you want to do. If you give yourself an easy way out of a situation, you’re likely to take it. I can’t express enough how important that advice was for me when I first started this journey. It was really difficult to leave my safe corporate salary and start from scratch, but four and a half years after making that decision, I couldn’t be happier with where I am today.
We’d love to hear more about Allison Cole Jewelry.
Allison Cole is a handmade jewelry line with a nautical theme. I grew up on the south shore of Massachusetts and spent a lot of time boating with my family, so I have always gravitated towards anything with a coastal vibe.
The brand is managed fully by me. From design to making each and every piece by hand, this is a one-man show. What I am most proud of is that I have been able to take something that didn’t exist three years ago and create a brand that is now worn by thousands of people throughout the country, and even the world.
Do you recommend any apps, books or podcasts that have been helpful to you?
It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and stresses of everyday life, and I am no exception. This year, I have begun trying to incorporate taking time each day to meditate. Whether it’s a few minutes in the morning or to relax at bedtime, it has already made a huge difference in helping to quiet my mind. For anyone who is interested in getting started, I would recommend the apps 10% Happier and Insight Timer.
Pricing:
- Retail prices for all pieces range from $20 – $46
Contact Info:
- Website: www.allisoncolejewelry.com
- Phone: 781-710-8955
- Email: nicole@allisoncolejewelry.com
- Instagram: allisoncolejewelry
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