Today we’d like to introduce you to Katherine Callahan.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Katherine. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started Katherine Rose Collections about a year and a half ago. I was craving a creative outlet to keep me busy especially during the cold winter months! I wandered the aisles of a local craft store and decided to try making a few bracelets. I bought a ton of beads and went to work. I got so much positive feedback that I thought it would be fun to try different types of gemstones and beads! Friends and co-workers started asking me to make bracelets for them and so it began!!
I also have to add that my brand has been inspired by two of the most influential women in my life – my mom and aunt. My mom was an incredible person who was generous, loving, kind, passionate, smart, and always dressed to the nines! I unfortunately lost her at a young age (10), but her legacy inspires me every single day. The last thing I gave my mom was a handmade blue beaded bracelet! How ironic is that? The other most influential person in my life was my Aunt Nancy. She was compassionate, sweet, silly, and one of my best friends. She worked hard to run a small one woman business out of her home. She treated each of her customers as if they were family. I aspire to treat each and every person with that amount of love and care.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Starting a business is not easy. It takes patience, passion, perseverance, and a solid support system. I’m lucky to have a very supportive group of family and friends. My family and friends have helped me so much along the way. They have been my biggest advocates helping me by developing my brand through my logo, pictures, and social media. My family and friends are my biggest customers and the best advertising I could ask for! What has been the most challenging for me really managing the growth and demand while still staying true to my brand. I also have a full time career so it can be challenging setting aside time to make my jewelry (especially in the summer months!).
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Katherine Rose Collections – what should we know?
Katherine Rose Collections is all handmade jewelry by me! I make customized beaded bracelets that look beautiful alone or as a stack. I make each bracelet with real gemstones and a lot of love. I fully stand behind each bracelet and will customize them to your size. I want every customer to love and be proud of their stack of bracelets. I’m constantly testing new colors and styles and am always open to feedback or ideas! Right now I do most of my business through e-mail, however hoping to have my website up in running in the next few weeks!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I believe there are a lot of factors that contribute to success, however I think having a solid support system and group of mentors is very important. The advice I’ve received by talking to people who have started local businesses is invaluable. Getting out in the community and sharing experiences with people is the best way to learn!
I also think it’s so important to stay relevant and open minded to testing new things. I never want my brand to be boring or stagnant. I love trying new colors and styles while staying true to my brand. Right now I’m working on a couple different stacks inspired by places around Boston.
Pricing:
- Bracelets range from $15-$25 based on the beads.
- Each bracelet can be customized to fit for a small fee.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 617-956-2599
- Email: katherinercollections@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katherinerosecollections
Image Credit:
Melinda Freund, Jackson Stewart
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