Solopreneur Inspiration from Dreamboat Lucy’s Hilary Mackay
Solopreneur, Hilary Mackay, jewelry and owner of Dreamboat Lucy is the featured guest for an episode of An Entrepreneur’s Vibes Podcast. The inspiring jeweler turned solo business owner shares her journey with The Write Direction’s audience and we learn a new business term that many will want to learn about.
Find out what it means to be a “solopreneur” and how you can potentially and successfully create and run your own business!
Hilary Mackay’s Artistry
Hilary Mackay’s entrepreneurial journey began shortly after her time at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in Halifax. Right after she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree where she majored in silversmithing, she went on to create Dreamboat Lucy. Her line of jewelry is unique and features one-of-a-kind type pieces you’ll never see mass-produced. When asked about the significance of combining precious metals, crystals, and gemstones (even beach glass!) in her designs, Hilary takes us back to her college days. “I did a lot of work in school mixing, like, textiles with metals. I think that’s when I started playing with, maybe not using traditional gemstones or what you would associate with other materials that you could mix with metals in jewelry making”.
Her creative and unique take on jewelry-making definitely sets her apart from traditional designs most people are used to seeing, giving her business that edge against competitors. Even Hilary’s way of designing is far from traditional. Where others start with sketching, Hilary starts with envisioning designs in her mind, or in her words, visualizing. Once she sees the design in her mind’s eye, she immediately creates it in a three-dimensional form.
Hilary recalls her time at NSCAD as what gave her that “good foundation”. It’s where she learned the skills to be able to create pieces that are timeless and most importantly, pieces that will last. While to the core, her technical jewelry-making styles are traditional, she has blended those skills with her innate and unique artistry to create jewelry that has never been done before.
The Start Of Dreamboat Lucy
Hilary didn’t start as a solopreneur. She actually started Dreamboat Lucy with her sister right after college. “We decided to just go for it” she recalls. This is a great piece of advice for anyone who has ever thought about starting a business alone. Hilary and her sister went to university together where they overlapped for about 2 years. Those years they spent together sparked the idea of starting a business together. Hilary was focused on jewelry while her sister was focused on clothing and they decided to join Toronto Fashion Week. At the time, they were both living in Calgary. It was then the name “Dreamboat Lucy” came to be. They had to figure out a brand name before participating in Fashion Week so they brainstormed phrases and words they connected with. One of the words is “dreamboat”. A vibe and energy their brand wanted to emulate. “Lucy” wasn’t necessarily a person they knew but she became the muse so to say, of what would later become quite a successful business.
Eventually, Hilary went on to move to Halifax. Her sister ventured into more bridal and everyday wear and they mutually decided it was best to focus on their businesses and they both started their journey into solo entrepreneurship.
What Is A Solopreneur?
According to Dropbox, the solopreneur meaning is someone who sets up a business of which they are also the only employee.
Hilary Mackay is a great example of someone who does solo entrepreneurship well. Not only is she the founder and designer, but she is also the one who physically creates the jewelry, packages it up to send to customers, and even does the marketing side of the business through social media. She is so dedicated to her business which works well for her because she has a studio right where her home is. This allows her to have that balance between home life and work life, especially as a mom of two young children.
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Entrepreneur vs. Solopreneur
Both entrepreneurs and solo entrepreneurs are founders and employees, but one has a team and the other doesn’t.
The main difference between an entrepreneur and a solo entrepreneur is that the former manages, delegates tasks, continuously finds a way to grow the business, spends most of the time in decision-making, and figures out payroll, employee benefits, and taxes. The latter on the other hand is known to be less of a financial risk as the owner also acts as the only employee. A solo entrepreneur does everything for the business. They have a single business focus and don’t need too much time on logistics.
If you’re considering becoming a one-person business like Hilary or need some solo business idea, here are some things to consider.
- Get Into E-commerce
You can easily become a solopreneur by setting up an e-commerce business because it won’t require much. You wouldn’t need a physical location to set up a storefront and you can easily sell consumer goods online. Sometimes, you won’t even need space for inventory. The dropshipping business model doesn’t require space for inventory because stocks are ordered straight from the manufacturer. - Become A Freelancer
Freelancers can also be considered solo entrepreneurs. Freelancers have in-demand skills for certain businesses. They provide support to businesses through design, development, or production. If you’re skilled in writing, graphic design, or even music composition, you can try your hand at becoming a freelancer. - Become A Consultant Or Coach
Another way to establish yourself as a solo business is by offering consultancy or coaching. After all, becoming an entrepreneur doesn’t solely mean selling products, you can also get paid for your services. Especially if you’re highly skilled in technical knowledge in a specific industry. - Create Passive IncomePassive income is generated through different ways, all of which require little to no labor. Examples of this include getting payments from investments, royalties from creative work, or payments from rental properties. You can develop an app, sell stock photos, and so much more with the help of automation to generate passive income and start your own solo business.
Unsure about your business idea? The Write Direction can help! We offer business plan writing services and business research reports to get you started.
Hilary’s Support System
Being a solo entrepreneur is no easy feat especially when you’ve got other priorities in life. For Hilary Mackay, taking care of newborns a few years back took a toll on her business. Because she was the sole worker in the company, everything had to take a backseat when she started focusing on new motherhood. Now that her children are old enough to be in daycare, she can now think of expanding her business which includes setting up a physical store.
During the pandemic, Hilary thought of other ways of pivoting her business. She used to join markets in her area and meet with her customers, a process she recalls fondly. “To get back to shopping one-on-one is something I realized how much I missed.”, Hilary says. She might have found new customers and built an online presence but something about selling her jewelry in person sticks out to Hilary.
When asked about how she balances home life and the business side, Hilary says it has a lot to do with a strong support system. She relies on her husband and her family for support and inspiration. She also cites her sister as a great source of support, especially because they both bond over being solo entrepreneurs. “Work never leaves my brain”, Hilary says. So it’s a delicate balance to learn how to compartmentalize moments in life where you should focus on work and when you should focus on other important priorities.
Listen To An Entrepreneur’s Vibes Podcast!
To know more about Hilary’s entrepreneurial journey and to get more tips on how to get started on your way, watch or listen to episode 5 of An Entrepreneur’s Vibes Podcast on YouTube or Spotify!
And for all your business writing needs, it’s The Write Direction you should follow! The best way to get started on any solo business idea is to write it all down in a business plan, a technical document we excel at creating. Visit our website at www.thewrite-direction.com to see what else we have in store for you!
FULL TRANSCRIPT FROM OUR PODCAST WITH HILARY MACKAY BELOW
Hilary [00:00:00] Don’t be trying to copy anybody else. You can follow the trends to an extent, but I think you just have to carve your own path and your own style. And I think that that’s probably going to be your best recipe for success. You got to try to find your own vision and set yourself apart.
Patricia [00:00:31] Welcome to An Entrepreneur’s Vibes, the podcast that gives insight into the minds of visionary entrepreneurs and business leaders. Brought to you by The Write Direction, a leading professional and technical writing company based in North America. Each episode, we explore stories and experiences of those who dared to dream, took the leap and built their own empires. Join us in uncovering the secrets to success and lessons learned along the way. So if you’re just starting your entrepreneurial journey or you’re already a seasoned business pro, you’ll find inspiration, knowledge, and good vibes right here. Today, we have a guest whose passion for jewelry making has not only shaped her artistic identity, but also paved the way for her successful business venture. Our featured entrepreneur, Hilary Mackay, discovered her love for crafting exquisite jewelry while pursuing a BFA with a silversmithing major at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design in Halifax. In 2010, she turned her artistic fervor into reality by founding Dreamboat Lucy, a brand that redefines everyday jewelry with its blend of affordability, uniqueness and meticulous handcrafting. So, please welcome or amazing guest, Hilary. Hi, welcome to the podcast!
Hilary [00:01:38] Hi! Thanks so much for having me.
Patricia [00:01:39] And, what are the vibes like for today, Hilary?
Hilary [00:01:44] Oh, well, it’s a little Christmasy. We got a Christmas tree up in the studio now, so we’re setting the the theme for the holidays. So, we’re in a studio?
Patricia [00:01:52] Oh, wow.
Hilary [00:01:53] Yeah, this is the Dreamboat Lucy workshop, a new space for me since April. So, it’s really been a nice change for the business here.
Patricia [00:02:02] That’s amazing! And I just want to get right into it. Like, could you please tell us about, like, Dreamboat Lucy and how your passion for jewelry making evolves into this new business that you have?
Hilary [00:02:13] Sure. Yeah. So, originally the business started between my sister and I in 2010, like, straight out of university. We decided to just go for it. We had been kind of working together. We went to university together, attended school there, overlapped for a couple of years and just started working together. So naturally, being sisters, you know, like something that we’ve grown up doing, and we decided we wanted to pursue our passions. I was focusing on jewelry, my sister on clothing at that time. And obviously, both of our interests went hand-in-hand with clothing and accessories. And we decided to, um, participate in Toronto Fashion Week. So, that really was a starting – jumping off point for us to go into business together. And from there, we moved to different provinces. We lived in Calgary together, and that’s kind of where things sort of took off for us. And then eventually, we just – we’re going into different paths. Her focusing more on on bridal and me more everyday wear so we sort of decided that it was better for both of us to just kind of focus on both sides of the business separately. And then, I moved again to Halifax with my husband and my daughter at that time, and really grew the business from there. And from there, now I’m in Prince Edward Island, and things just keep changing and evolving and we’re just kind of riding the wave.
Patricia [00:03:46] That’s really great! And how was the dynamic like with your sister? Because I know a lot of people who would want to get advice as to, you know, how to, like, work with family members or even friends? So, what was your dynamic like?
Hilary [00:03:57] It’s tricky. I mean, it’s like, it’s obviously not easy. We’re so close like just the best of friends, and we are still to this day, but I think that always gets tricky when it comes to like the business side of things, and I feel like, for us, that was starting to affect our relationship a little bit. We’re both super creative people and that’s what really brought us together. But at the same time, you know, our heads are different when it comes to the business side of things. And I think for us, it was kind of – we were starting to not enjoy the business side of it as much as – and we valued our personal relationship too much to let that interfere, and I think that is part of the reason that we decided to go separate ways.
Patricia [00:04:44] I’m so glad that you still have a really great relationship. But, um, on the flip side, like, I really love the name Dreamboat Lucy. Could you tell us about how you figured that out and where that came from?
Hilary [00:04:55] Yeah. So, like I was saying, we decided to – we wanted to participate in Toronto Fashion Week, and at that point, we we didn’t have a name yet, so we really just brainstormed, writing down all these words and phrases and things that we connected with. And we always use the term dreamboat as like, you know, something cute or cool or somebody that has that vibe, that energy, and look that we connected with. And so, we really ran with that. And then Lucy, we just were like, that’s our girl. That’s our It girl. Like, she’s like gonna be kind of the muse for the company.
Patricia [00:05:27] Is Lucy like an actual person you guys know or that’s just like a muse that you created? Yeah.
Hilary [00:05:33] We just, you know, Dreamboat Lucy… like, she’s got the – she’s that girl. Yeah, she’s that girl!
Patricia [00:05:39] Totally. That’s amazing! I love that. And could you tell us about, like, how your education at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design influenced you into your jewelry design making – your entrepreneurial approach?
Hilary [00:05:49] Absolutely, yeah. So, they really focus there on the creative aspect of jewelry making or just most of their disciplines. But, there’s a really good foundation in their skill and craftsmanship too. So, I feel like I just really took advantage of the fact that, you know, while in school, you can be as wild as you want with, like, your with your designs, you know, there’s nothing riding on it. You’re trying to sell them or anything or market them to anybody. So, from there, I kind of just – what – I just did that. I was like, you know, really playful in design, and it’s so fun to be able to make that your priority. And then having that good foundation for like the skills and, you know, really learning how to work with the metals while you’re in school and having that foundation. Really, what this able to – leave me down the path to market things and sell them in stores later on.
Patricia [00:06:47] [00:06:47]So, we’re open about, like, being wild with your, like, design choices. So, tell us about, like, the significance or like the combining of precious metals and crystals and gemstones in your design? [9.1s]
Hilary [00:06:57] [00:06:57]So yeah, like, I did a lot of work while in school mixing like textiles with metals. I think that’s where I sort of started playing with, you know, maybe not using traditional gemstones or, you know, what you would associate other materials that you could mix with metals in jewelry making. Um, and so I really was trying to explore and experiment using nontraditional materials. And I think just to, you know, set yourself apart and – from other jewelers or jewelry that you saw in stores. That’s kind of where I was going with it. I think that really led me down that path where I could be more creative or not start from a place that’s so traditional. And yeah, so from there, I just found that I loved the composition of using, you know, fine precious metals and mixing that with something that maybe wasn’t so typical or so, like, pretty per se. You know, like, I love the sparkles. Everybody loves the sparkly jewelry, but I feel like mixing that with something that’s maybe not so expected has its own kind of, you know, sparkle and shine. [74.7s]
Patricia [00:08:13] You know, like non-conventional design, basically.
Hilary [00:08:15] Yeah. Exactly. Yeah.
Patricia [00:08:16] [00:08:16]And could you walk us through your creative process when you’re designing your jewelry line? [4.4s]
Hilary [00:08:21] [00:08:21]Sure, yeah. So, I feel like for me, I really – I don’t do any sketches. It’s not my forte. I’ve never been, like, one to sit down and draw out anything. For me, it’s like I see it in my head. I like, visualize it to death. And then, once I can really understand how I’m going to create it in my mind, then I put it into three dimensional form. And for me, I feel like I’d really just, to be honest, I design for myself a lot. So if I don’t think that I would wear it, or I don’t think that I think it’s going to be cool, then I don’t bother. So I really like, I guess that’s kind of where things start for me. But a lot of times, I play around with, you know, the stones themselves. I like – with the crystals, I break them up, and then from there, those pieces really inspire me to maybe, you know, “Oh, this! I can really see this as a design for a ring or these two pairs look like they should be earrings.” You know, I feel like the crystals or the medium that I’m working with – I do a lot of beach glass now that I’m on Prince Edward Island. The pieces themselves sort of speak to me, and then I kind of create the pieces from there. [70.0s]
Patricia [00:09:32] [00:09:32]And what do you think makes Dreamboat Lucy stand out in the market? And how do you maintain those uniqueness that you’ve talked about – making unconventional designs and making sure you stay true to yourself as an artist as well, and making things that you love personally? [12.4s]
Hilary [00:09:46] [00:09:46]I think, yeah, for me, I’ve really ran down the road of doing more unconventional styles, you know, like, you know, you think of earrings with traditional [10.9s] [00:09:57]posts, [0.0s] [00:09:58]or I play around with a lot of designs that, you know, maybe people haven’t seen before. And you know, opening up people’s minds to what, like, you know, earrings that go through your ear and kind of coil around and do different things that are a little bit more unexpected. So, they speak to, like, a different customer, maybe. And I just try to keep those keep evolving with new designs like that, something that’s a little bit more unexpected. I think that keeps people interested in seeing – coming back and seeing maybe what new things that I’ve made. And then, a lot of my pieces are one of a kind too. Like, all of the beach glass ones, the crystal ones, you’re not going to find those pieces exactly the same again. And I think that one of a kind-ness is something that customers gravitate towards as well as like, you know, it makes it really special to have something that, you know, is not super over manufactured. I think that is something that customers are attracted to, knowing that everything is super small batch. It could be, you know, gone tomorrow and then they’re the only ones that have it. [64.0s]
Patricia [00:11:03] I got that, because especially in like the fashion world, I think a really big problem right now is like fast fashion and just like creating too many of one thing. So, it’s like small batches of like really amazing and well-crafted items are more unique than run-of-the-mill, like, jewelry you can get from like, anywhere else. So you’re a –
Hilary [00:11:22] Absolutely.
Patricia [00:11:24] – silversmithing major. [00:11:24]How is traditional craftsmanship techniques influenced your designs and how do you balance them with modern trends? [6.5s]
Hilary [00:11:33] [00:11:33]I think, like I said, like, [0.9s] [00:11:35]NSCAD [0.0s] [00:11:35]had really gave me a good foundation on, you know, all the skills you need to create timeless pieces and pieces that are going to last. So, I think that’s something that I definitely carried forward, you know, all the pieces I make, I – they should be able to, you know, last years or maybe even be passed down to other generations, so that people can really covet those pieces. So, I think that there’s that traditional skill set and then, yeah, I mix that with something that’s maybe a little bit more unexpected. And I think that right now what I’m sort of exploring is with my beach glass things using a traditional what’s called the bezel setting, but then, I’ve sort of put my own flair on it where I do a few different techniques that I’ve sort of just been able to experiment with myself and create something new that I haven’t seen anybody else do. So that’s really fun too, is just, you know, you learn the basics. And then, after years of of doing those and perfecting them, you can really just start exploring on your own and feeling confident that you can do something like that. [71.5s]
Patricia [00:12:47] It’s amazing! When you know what works, you can now be experimental and stuff like that.
Hilary [00:12:51] Yeah! A 100%, yeah.
Patricia [00:12:53] [00:12:53]So, you’ve been in the industry for over a decade. How do you stay inspired and continue to be innovative in your designs? [5.9s]
Hilary [00:13:00] [00:13:00]Yeah. I think that, again, having a lot of my pieces be one of a kind. It’s like, okay, once it sells, you’re like, now I have, you know, the freedom or the confidence that people are liking these things and I’m just going to run with it. I think it’s just more opportunity to play around with new designs, too. I think I just have so much – it’s just my favorite thing to do, honestly. Like jewelry making for me, you know, is a pastime for so many people. And the fact that it gets to just be my full time job is like such a dream that it’s not lost on me. And so, I really just, you know, as much as it can be tiring, you know, reproducing a lot of some of my more traditional pieces or ones that I send to retailers and stuff like that. Now, I just – I try to make a piece a day. That’s just something fun. And I sort of keep that in the mix of my regular routine of other jewelry pieces that I make, and that just keeps things so exciting. Yeah. [60.3s]
Patricia [00:14:02] [00:14:02]And could you tell us about, like, some of the challenges you faced when you were starting Dreamboat Lucy and how did you overcome those challenges? [6.5s]
Hilary [00:14:09] [00:14:09]Oh, gosh, I really think mostly it was just we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. I think it’s just we had this background of, okay, we know this. We have the skills to make pieces. But other than that, we had no idea, like, literally no idea on the business side of things. So, with so much trial and error, I feel like it’s still just trial and error. You know, obviously I’ve learned a lot in the last decade doing this, but with every, you know, success comes like a new challenge. I think that it’s never not – it’s never not hard. It’s just hard in new ways. You know, like, I think the more successful you become, the more pressure there is to, you know, stay relevant and the new challenges with growth. And I think it’s, yeah, it is never not easy. I think it’s just different – like, difficult in different ways. So, I think that, you know, some of the challenges I’ve overcome were, you know, starting to get off and being like a passion, but then really turning it into a full time career that was like probably the biggest challenge, you know, when you were like working. And that’s really just your side hustle. I think that was like one of my major goals for a long time was just to, you know, be solely dependent on the business and then when that – once that happens, and you just continue to set these new goals for yourself. Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart. There’s just, like, you just have to stick it through. [85.0s]
Patricia [00:15:36] And I’m sure the jewelry market has evolved so much since 2010. And it’s something that, like, follows trends and trends come and go. [00:15:46]So, how is Dreamboat Lucy adapted to these, like, changes in trends in the market? [4.0s]
Hilary [00:15:51] [00:15:51]I think just trying to stay unique is more so where like my head is at. You know, obviously, if there’s like – I feel like, you know, there were like statement necklaces are a big thing and then it goes to like dainty jewelry. And then to an extent, you have to follow those things, you know, you want to stay with, like the major trends. But for the most part, I don’t try to follow trends too closely because then again, you’re just sort of, you know, you’re looking like everybody else. So, for me, it’s more so just trying to stay true to like stuff that I think is, I think is cool that I would wear. And I feel like I just try to really trust my own aesthetic, and if I think that, I hope that I have, like, good taste and that people will think that’s the case too. [48.5s]
Patricia [00:16:42] [00:16:42]I believe they do! When you’ve been at the business long enough, and you’ve stayed really true to yourself. And so, how have you been able to like, balance, you know, being an artist and being an entrepreneur when you’re running this business? [11.6s]
Hilary [00:16:54] [00:16:54]Yeah, it’s such a tricky balance. Because obviously, you know, my strength is like the artistry part of it. But in order to be successful, the business side of it is if not, you know, more important. Because you can be, like, so talented, but if you can’t market it, then, I mean, what’s the point, really? So, I think the business side of things has been such a learning curve for me, and just putting yourself out there is tricky, especially when it’s your own artwork. It feels like so personal. So, I think that really just leaning into those avenues that you can like social media and those platforms have been so influential in my success. Just trying to get as many eyes on, on my pieces as possible as what’s really helped the business. [57.9s]
Patricia [00:17:54] That’s amazing, and I’m so happy that you found those avenues in social media. I actually found you from TikTok. So, that’s how – yeah.
Hilary [00:17:59] Okay, cool!
Patricia [00:18:01] [00:18:01]So, that’s pretty amazing that that’s been working for you. Besides that, what else are the most rewarding moments that you’ve experienced? You know, while you’re running Dreamboat Lucy? [10.3s]
Hilary [00:18:11] [00:18:11]I guess, you know, seeing like, returning customers is always so gratifying. You know, like, I was just at a market recently and, you know, like, you’re like, “Oh, I don’t know if you heard of us before, but…” You know, you kind of give them the rundown of what the business is about, and they’re like, “Oh, I’m actually like, you know, I have a lot of your pieces.” So, hearing that is, like so gratifying and just, like, feel so good that you’re like, “Oh, okay!” You know, like, these are real people who have – who are returning customers or know about us. You know, it’s so – the support is like unbelievable. I think it just never gets old. When people, you know, compliment your stuff and, you know, they’re the reason that you are where you are. So, being face to face with people and – or if they’re wearing your things is like the biggest compliment that you can get. So, that’s a huge one. You know, having your products and retailers and then being like, return orders is like also just like so flattering to you. You know, that takes a lot. They’re, you know, kind of someone taking a risk on you too. I appreciate that so much. I think, yeah. Having some success on TikTok, that was like a huge breakthrough for me, especially during the pandemic. You know, everybody, I think, in the retail world had to sort of switch gears and focus a lot more on online sales, because, you know, in-person shopping was not a thing, basically. So, yeah, that really shifted momentum for me to sort of, you know, reach a different audience, and I was lucky enough that I had that success at that time. [110.3s]
Patricia [00:20:03] Yeah, I can imagine, like being an artist, just feeling very validated when you see other people, like, appreciate your work. So, I could imagine that’s how it must have felt like. And yeah, going, like – business is going from offline to online – just like, boomed during the pandemic. But I think it’s a really good thing. [00:20:20]Wouldn’t you say that you’ve been able to reach, like, a new audience, that you might not have reached unless you were online? [5.5s]
Hilary [00:20:27] [00:20:27]Absolutely. Because of that, until that time, I had so much of my focus was, you know, wholesaling to retailers and doing, you know, markets around Canada. So, because of, the pandemic and, you know, those outlets kind of shutting down, it forced me to sort of reframe my business and where I put my energy. Because my online sales were not as a big part of my business, you know, was like just kind of extra compared to those other sides of it. So, putting the more effort in online, it was huge for me because it made me – I didn’t have to produce as much stuff, you know, because you’re getting 100% of those sales, like just through you rather than a third party selling your stuff. And like so many more international and North American customers [59.1s] [00:21:27]that I – it’s an audience [0.9s] [00:21:28]I never reached before. [0.7s]
Patricia [00:21:30] [00:21:30]Would you have any advice for other entrepreneurs? Because we’re talking about, like, challenges and unexpected challenges and opportunities are always bound to come when you’re running a business. And when those things happen, what advice would you give to other entrepreneurs? [12.5s]
Hilary [00:21:45] [00:21:45]I think just, yeah, like trying to get yourself out there as much as possible. I know for me, you know, social media can feel – it can feel annoying. I think a lot of the time, you know, like, you feel like you maybe are just treading water and you’re not really getting anywhere. That’s how I felt. But I think – or you just feel like you’re being annoying, you know, like just shoving your stuff down people’s throats, like, too much, but you just never know where that’s going to get or where you’re gonna – who you’re going to reach, and I think that is the advantage of it, too. Like, you just – you could be reaching some an entirely new audience than you have prior. So, I think just like continue. Just like keep at it. I think that is really just the best advice for any entrepreneur is just you – if it’s really what you want to do, you just have to keep at it is. Like, you know, I’m sure everybody’s heard that advice 100 times, but I think that’s really how you, you know, triumph is just to, you know, you just keep going. [69.6s]
Patricia [00:22:55] Yeah. I agree. So, let’s talk about sustainability and ethics. Could you discuss the the role of sustainability in your jewelry making process and how it aligns with contemporary values?
Hilary [00:23:07] Sure. I think that, yeah, like right now, we’re I’m doing a lot of, you know living in P.E.I., connecting with the beach glass that we have here. It’s like such a… You know, I was talking with my mom the other day, and you know, when you travel around, usually there’s like a stone or something that’s mined in other locations, and that’s like the piece of jewelry by to sort of keep that memory of those travels or – P.E.I. Doesn’t really have something like that besides, you know, the sand and you know to – but beach glass is like such a prevalent thing that a lot of tourists, when they come, they go beachcombing. So, it’s something that I’ve really connected with, because it’s something I love to do. And I’m so fortunate to have – to live close by where it’s something that I can do, like on the daily. So, yeah, using those pieces of beach glass is been, like, such a fun and enjoyable piece of sustainable product that I’m able to use now in my jewelry making, and I love it. I absolutely love it. Also, just because of the one of a kind nature of it as well. But I think again, too, you know, using quality materials is something that, you know, it’s not these pieces are something that you’re just going to wear a couple times and then toss out eventually, like, I hope that they’re just like treasured things. So, there’s not a ton of them being produced since it’s just me. So, I think that’s always going to be a focus of the business.
Patricia [00:24:33] I love that! And with sustainability being a growing concern, how has Dreamboat Lucy embraced eco-friendly practices in your business operations?
Hilary [00:24:43] I think like, you know, those points I made earlier, also with it just being me producing those things like we’re not just – everything is made to order. So, I don’t have a whole bunch of inventory sitting around that’s just going to, you know, go blow on sale and just to get rid of it. Everything is really just such small production. So, not a ton of material is being used. Also, you know, everything that we’re shipping is so small, I feel like that’s a big advantage of being in the jewelry business too. It’s like we don’t have to use a lot of waste to get things packaged and shipped around the world. As much as it’s a focus of the business, it’s just the advantage of being in this medium as well as that it’s just everything so small and scale. So, that’s super helpful for me as well.
Patricia [00:25:33] [00:25:33]Yeah, the the business itself is naturally sustainable. Exactly. Yeah. And could you tell us about how you approached marketing and promoting Dreamboat Lucy, especially now in our digital age? [11.0s]
Hilary [00:25:45] [00:25:45]Sure, yeah. Like I said, I really use social media as, like, a big tool for marketing. TikTok, Instagram, like, so a little bit on Facebook, not so much. But yeah, I found like TikTok just like such a fun form of like making content. I really – I think that jewelry lends itself more to seeing it in action rather than being photographed. So, that was like such a fun way to try to market things and just like, you know, not take it so seriously. I think that has been really fun way for me to try to market the pieces. I do like a lot of ear stacking videos, and that’s kind of like my go-to thing, because a lot of those pieces that I’m marketing people haven’t seen before, and I think that it’s, like, immediately catches your eye because it’s like, “Oh, wait, what is she doing with that earring? Like, I’ve never seen someone put something like that in their ear before.” And if you just saw it in the photograph, you wouldn’t really get it. So, I think that really was a huge advantage that TikTok kind of was happening in a long time alongside me making those more unconventional styles. They just sort of went hand in hand. [79.0s]
Patricia [00:27:05] And they kind of see you in the process. It’s like so real, and do you do your social media all alone? Do you have help or is it just you creating these videos and posting?
Hilary [00:27:16] Yeah. Right now, I’m just the sole producer for everything. It’s something that I would maybe like to – it takes up a lot of time. So, something that I might want to outsource in the future. But for now, I just find it fun, so I don’t – it’s not too much of a hassle for me to do right now.
Patricia [00:27:34] [00:27:34]And how important do you think it is for getting customer feedback when shaping your designs? Do you listen to much or does it play into your design process? [9.1s]
Hilary [00:27:45] [00:27:45]Yeah, totally. I think that, you know, you have people – have the option to leave feedback on my products online, and I always love reading those reviews. Yeah, definitely plays a big part because, you know, those are the people that are buying and wearing your pieces. So, I think that if they have any sort of feedback that they want to provide, it’s something that you need to consider and move forward with, because they might be the only one saying it, but, you know, other people might be thinking the same thing too. So, especially whenever so much of my sales are online, you’re not actually seeing those people face to face, I think it’s super important to consider or just, you know, on those videos, people asking questions about, you know, “Do you make this? But in, you know, with this metal, or this metal, or this stone?” You know, if you have like repeat questions like that, I think it’s, well, there’s a demand for something, you know, so I might as well try it and just see if there’s other people that like it too. I had these coil earrings that you can put through multiple piercings, and I had forever people asking for them to go through like three holes in your ear. And I just was really hesitant to do that. And then finally, I was just like, you know what? Let’s go for it. And then they’re like, my best selling earring now. So, you know, all everybody’s feedback is very valid. [84.8s]
Patricia [00:29:11] I love that! And in terms of marketing, what channels have been the most effective for you when promoting Dreamboat Lucy? And how do you measure the success of your marketing efforts?
Hilary [00:29:22] Definitely TikTok for me. Like I said, just like the video medium, I think really lends itself to what I’m trying to sell. I think, well, sometimes it’s just instantly gratifying, you know, like, I could post a video and then you could just, you know, see it go viral, and that usually results in, you know, a whole bunch of sales to you of that product that you’ve put out there. So, that’s like, yeah, like it can be – have instant gratification. And then I think just anything that a lot of people are like commenting on or sharing a lot, all of that is, you know, just more exposure. So, whether it’s actually results in sales, you know, if people are are sharing your content and just getting more eyes on it is always so valuable.
Patricia [00:30:15] It is, yeah. And could you share us some upcoming projects? Maybe your collections that you’re excited about?
Hilary [00:30:23] Sure, yeah. So, we recently just, moved into a new house, and the newest endeavor I’d like to do is actually having sort of a small storefront, like, in my studio space here. So, to be able to get back to shopping one-on-one is something that I realized how much I missed. After, you know, being so behind a screen for the last couple of years, now, people are coming out like post-pandemic, and I really miss the one-on-one relationships. So, that’s like my newest project that I’m hoping to have up and going for the summer is that people that can come in and shop in person with me. And then, yeah, I think the beach glass stuff I started on in the summertime and that people are like loving that. I think people really connect with the medium, and so I’ll do more of that, in the spring. And people, I think, will be able to find that in more stores across Canada too, whereas right now, it’s just solely online. So, that’ll be exciting.
Patricia [00:31:30] That would be really exciting to have a storefront for you eventually. You talked earlier about, like, going to markets and stuff like that, and I wanted to ask you, like, [00:31:37]how different it is maintaining a personal connection when you’re actually, like, seeing your customers versus online? Like, do you have, like, a preference or how different is it? And on your stand, like, how do you want to connect to your customers more? [15.4s]
Hilary [00:31:54] [00:31:54]Yeah, I think that, you know, there really isn’t much of a connection online, which in some ways is nice. You know, you don’t have to have that transaction, but at the same time, like, it’s so nice to be in person, like, have your products there and see what people are gravitating towards rather than, you know, just behind a screen, seeing what orders come in to have all of your products in front of you. And, you know, being like, oh, you know, I can tell that, you know, this design is really piquing people’s interest. It’s such a good practice, you know, space to test out new designs as well. And I just miss that face-to-face interaction, especially, like, you know, I work out of my studio, so just having those personal connections is, like, it’s so nice. It’s just like a cherry on top of, you know, making and selling jewelry is to be able to then see people and leave, like, with your pieces in hand. [62.0s]
Patricia [00:32:57] So, you would take, like, maybe the comments and like the online visibility – you would still rather, you know, do the personal thing with your customers basically.
Hilary [00:33:05] I think so. I think just, yeah, I don’t know.
Patricia [00:33:10] They’re so different too! Yeah! They’re so different! It was so great for your business being online.
Hilary [00:33:18] Exactly. It’s not – it’s really gotten me – yeah. It’s really gotten me to where I am and made it possible for me to, you know, potentially open up a little storefront because of the success I’ve had online. So, I mean, yeah, if I didn’t have that, I wouldn’t have this. They kind of go hand in hand. But again, they’re just like, they’re such different ways of getting your products out. It’s… Yeah, I love them both. I think, you know, the packing and shipping is like a whole other thing of online. And then when they come, you can just leave with it. It’s like, yeah, they’re both – they both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Patricia [00:33:57] I can see that. So, how do you see the future of Dreamboat Lucy evolving in terms of design aesthetics and business strategies?
Hilary [00:34:07] Yeah, I think just constantly, I’m thinking of, like, new ways and new avenues for the business. I think, like I said, we’re hoping to have kind of like a little retail area soon. And then, like I said, we just moved to a new place. So, more locally, having more access to, you know, the retailers here, having my products in stores here. And then just in general, I guess for me, the goal is always just to be able to have this be my, you know, full-time business, and that’s the case now. And so that, like, really fulfills a lot for me. I don’t know how much, like, I plan on, you know, growing it too much outside of that. I sometimes wish that I had help, obviously. You know, like, it’s a lot to try to do on your own, but then with help comes like, you know, more complications too sometimes, but we’ll see. Yeah, I want to get back to doing more markets. Hopefully, traveling more again outside of the Maritimes and doing larger markets again now that those are kind of up and running again. I took a break from them for the last four years almost. And so, just did Christmas one a few weeks ago, and that was so fun. So yes, getting to do more trade shows and stuff like that and hopefully to just grow the business again outside of Canada. I think that would be a big goal for us is just – right now, we sell a lot of products to customers in the States. So, to have some retailers outside of Canada would be a good goal right now.
Patricia [00:35:56] So, you’re talking about like doing the business solo. So, I know you’re the artist, and you also, like, make the jewelry. You said you’re also doing the social media. So, are you really just like a one-woman, like, company basically? Yes. Like, creating to packing? Everything is all you? You don’t have, like, any like, assistants or anything?
Hilary [00:36:15] No, it’s just me. Yeah, I do, like, I run every aspect of it right now. And I think, you know, to an extent, you could only grow so much doing that, like, I know that. I think also too, though, we’ve been busy, like, creating a family. I have, like, two small kids. I have a four year-old and a two year-old. So, you know, the business obviously takes a backseat whenever you have newborns. And now they’re, you know, they’re a little bit older and they are in care during the day. So, I’m able to focus a lot more on the business, but it’s hard when everything just can change in an instant. And so, yeah, they’ve been really my focus for the last few years. And so, to try and really put the business at the forefront of my thoughts and like – it’s been really nice these last few months, like getting the new studio space, and that’s really – encouraged me to, you know, think of other ways that I can grow the business too.
Patricia [00:37:16] Yeah. Considering because you don’t have anyone else to, like – I guess trust with the business, how has it been like being, like, a new mom? And how do you balance everything? It seems like a lot for just one plate.
Hilary [00:37:29] Yeah, it can be super overwhelming. I have, like, such a good support system. My husband’s amazing and my family is amazing. My mom and dad and my sister is a big support too. Still, we talk. She’s doing the same thing. So, I think that we still have so many similarities and can relate in so many ways on that side of things. But we have – I have some friends that are entrepreneurs as well, so it’s just nice to be able to chat with them and, you know, we all have – are going through the same thing, but it is a lot. It’s like – it’s hard to turn it off. I think that’s probably one of the biggest challenges is that, you know, for me, my work never leaves my brain. I think it’s just, like, I’m just always thinking about it, especially with having a studio in the home, is like, I could just always come in here if I wanted to, which is, like, such a blessing, but also kind of a curse. So yeah, it is really – it can be really stressful, but at the same time, like, I don’t know what I would do. Like, I just – I can’t. It’s a literally I’m living my dream right now, so I can’t complain too much.
Patricia [00:38:40] Amazing. [00:38:40]And can you share, like, a valuable lesson or a piece of advice that you’ve learned along the way that you wish you knew when you started? [5.6s]
Hilary [00:38:48] [00:38:48]Oh, gosh. I think kind of what I was saying earlier about it – for me, it just – it’s never really gotten easier. Like, it’s just different. I think, like I said, it’s – just there’s – it’s just going to be challenging. And in other ways, you know, you reach one goal and that just drives you to, you know, reach another one. I think that’s just – it’s just always going to be work. I don’t know if there’s any sort of, like, measure of success. I think you’re just always going to want to try and, you know, outdo yourself. Yeah. Exactly. And because there’s no one above you like patting you on the back, like, you kind of have to do that for yourself, which it can be really difficult. It’s like you don’t get that gratification from someone else telling you like, “Good job.” I think that can be like a struggle or like how to measure your success. You know, like you’re not getting like someone telling you your, you know, yearly goals. You have to do all that yourself. So, I think just to be, like, kind to yourself and don’t put too much pressure on yourself and again, yeah, you need to really have a good support system. I think of either people around you that are doing the same thing or just, you know, people that you can talk to and they can just listen. That’s really – I don’t know. My husband, like, wants me to talk so much to him about work, but he’s just such a great ear for me, and he’ll let me talk about it as much as I want. [96.2s]
Patricia [00:40:26] And sometimes you just want an outlet, right? Because you’re already in your head.
Hilary [00:40:29] Totally.
Patricia [00:40:30] Yeah.
Hilary [00:40:32] Yeah, 100%.
Patricia [00:40:34] Were there any specific entrepreneurs or business leaders that you looked up to or you were inspired by during your journey?
Hilary [00:40:41] I don’t know, like, specifically one. I know, like, just like in, you know, peers of ours that we’ve seen, you know, establish themselves and are still around. I think at this point, like, that’s just something to commen. It’s just, you know, sticking it out, and we – I have a friend here. She’s a local potter, and she has her – she took over her family business, and we’ve become buds, and it’s so nice to be able to talk to her about, you know, the challenges that she’s facing and sort of, like, living up to the legacy that has been left behind for her. That’s really encouraging to just, you know, have some other female mompre- I don’t even know how to say that, yeah, moms who are entrepreneurs. I think that’s just, like, so nice to be able to really just have some other people like that and… Yeah, to be in, you know, be able to pat them on the back as much as they’re doing it to you has been, like, just so nice.
Patricia [00:41:46] [00:41:46]And what would you say to anyone who’s, like, looking to enter the jewelry industry if they want to create their own line – become a jeweler like you? What do we have to say to them?[8.8s]
Hilary [00:41:56] [00:41:56]I think just try to stay true to yourself. I think, you know, don’t be trying to, you know, copy anybody else. Like, I think, like you said, you can follow the trends to an extent, but I think you just have to carve your own path and your own style. And I think that’s probably going to be your best recipe for success. It’s just to create something that’s just your own. And, you know, if people copy you from there, then good on you. It’s just like something that you could be, you know, patting yourself on the back for, but yeah, as much as you can. I think you got to try to find your own vision and set yourself apart in that sense. [38.6s]
Patricia [00:42:36] I just wanted to pick your brain on – since you’re a jeweler, I think the current trend, because we’re talking about trends is like big statement jewelry. What do you say about, like, those huge earrings or, like, these really huge rings? What was your thoughts on, like, big statement jewelry that’s, like, really in right now?
Hilary [00:42:53] I mean, I think there’s like a time and a place for, like, all different types of jewelry. I think that it depends on the event. Like for me, I just – I’m so lazy when it comes to jewelry. I feel like – myself, like if I can’t sleep in it, like, I don’t wear it so – but I mean, if I’m – yeah. If I’m going out, like, I’m down to, you know, get layered up, and I think that, yeah, I’m always interested in a big statement piece. I think that if you’re going to do it, you do it like in one place, you know, kind of, like, when you do your makeup. It’s like you pick one thing to focus on and then everything else, you make a little bit more subtle. I feel like when you wear accessories, it should kind of be the same rule.
Patricia [00:43:37] And do you have, like, one statement piece of jewelry from Dreamboat Lucy that you’re always wearing? Or do you like to switch it up?
Hilary [00:43:44] I like – I just constantly change it up. I think that’s, like, the advantage of basically having, like, a jewelry store in my house. Like, depending on what I’m wearing, I just come down here and, like, route around my pieces and just see what, like, fits best with my outfit. So yeah, I switch it up a lot, especially with, like, the one of the kind pieces. It’s like, I wear them, and then I sell them, and then I can wear something else new and, like, it’s pretty fun.
Patricia [00:44:11] It’s a really interesting process. I can imagine. Can you share us some memorable customer story or testimonial that highlights the impact of jewelry that has on someone else’s life?
Hilary [00:44:23] Yeah. I think, you know, with some of my more unique styles of people telling me, you know, like, I had a lot of customers be like, I get comments or compliments on it, like daily. I think that’s, like, so affirming. You know, just whether it’s because they’ve never seen something like that before or they just are, like, really into the design, that’s always, like, so nice to hear. Or just the fact that, you know, they’re wearing them on a daily, like that’s something that they love enough to, you know, want to keep on all the time. It’s, like, so nice. But then, you know, like some of my more, like, sentimental pieces that are like one of a kind, you know, people are buying them because of a connection they have, you know, whether it’s the beach glass, you know, they connect with it because it’s, like, a memory they had. You know, beach glass combing with a family member, and they’re gifting it to them for that purpose. I think that’s so cool that it represents something, like, totally different than, you know, why I was making it. It’s, like, they share a memory, and now, this represents that memory. I think that’s so cool to know that people aren’t buying it just because it’s pretty or cool. It’s because it holds that importance to them, and I think that’s so special.
Patricia [00:45:40] Like, they’re incorporating your art basically into their lives, which I think is like such an amazing thing, especially if you’re an artist, to see that. Totally!
Hilary [00:45:48] Or you know that when they get asked about the piece that they’re wearing, they have their own story about why they have it on. Other than it’s just, you know, this artist in P.E.I know that’s part of it, but it’s like, you know, my mom and I or, you know, my grandmother and I use to beachcomb all the time, and this represents that special memory for me now.
Patricia [00:46:09] So, you’ve been talking about, like, beach glass. So in the beach, like, there’s those little shards of glass that get, like, washed up to the shore and they’ve become, like, almost like smooth. Right?
Hilary [00:46:19] Exactly. Yeah.
Patricia [00:46:20] Could you tell us about, like, how you got into that process? How you, like, found it, and how that’s been incorporated now into your designs?
Hilary [00:46:28] Sure, yeah. So, I’m from P.E.I. and, you know, obviously we’re surrounded by beaches here. So, a lot of people, you know – it’s a tourist destination. A lot of people who come, you know, look for beach glass because that’s like something that they can bring home with them, but a lot of people who grow up here or, you know, have done that as well. My husband – his family grew up kind of on the North Shore of P.E.I., and he took me to the shorefront – sort of where they have property one day, and there’s just, like – we were able to find a ton of it, and I just fell in love with the process of – it’s, like, so relaxing, going down there and listening to the water. It sort of became like a happy place for me. And I was accumulating so much of it and so, you know, started to make pieces out of it. And then just the response from people that I was getting – they were so into it. It evolved into something I never really meant for it to. I really just made the pieces for myself originally, and there was just, like, such a strong response to them that I made a first collection, a small collection of them. And then, it just – the demand was there. So, I just kept making them, which is, like, again, so fun because every piece is so different. Or I can just be, like, I want to make a piece out of blue glass today or orange tomorrow. You know, it’s constantly changing because I live now, like, so close to the shore. It’s something that I can do more regularly because I have access to beach glass, like, all the time. So, it’s really become, like, almost like a whole other entity of Dreamboat Lucy than it was before.
Patricia [00:48:12] That’s amazing. And so, Dreamboat Lucy jewelry is described as affordable, unique and handcrafted. How do you manage to keep your pieces affordable while maintaining that high quality and uniqueness?
Hilary [00:48:24] Well, I think, you know, a lot of it is because it’s just me, you know, like, I’m not – I don’t have, like, a whole bunch of other people that the process is going through. So, and again, everything is, like, made to order, so I just can keep my inventory, like, really, really low. And because of that, you know, I’m only making, like, a few pieces a day, so I really can just, like, spend the time on each piece and give it, like, you know, the attention that it deserves and to be able to make it last. So, that’s really kind of where I can do that. A lot of my business is online. It’s coming like straight from me. There’s nobody that it’s going through. So, because of that, I can keep my costs down because there’s not a whole bunch of people, you know, middlemen in between.
Patricia [00:49:16] I wanted to ask you that actually. For operations, like, you’re a small business owner, like, I wanted to ask how you manage your inventory and, like, what what steps you take to forecast and meet the demand for your jewelry?
Hilary [00:49:31] Yeah. It’s just looking at, like, previous, you know, sales from the year before. Trying to, like, map out certain events that happened in the year where you know are going to be, you know, selling a lot of whatever products at that time. You know, usually Valentine’s Day, and Christmas, and Mother’s Day. Those are like big hot pot days for jewelry. So, you kind of try to gear up for those events, and then, you know, whether you’re doing, markets and stuff like that throughout the year, I try my best to forecast those things, but as much as I try, then, you know, something unexpected could happen, like something going viral on TikTok and then you’re like, “Oh my God! I’m not prepared to make, you know, 100 pairs of these earrings that I just, you know, posted on a whim.” So yeah, I do my best. It’s not something that I am great at is like, inventory is – but yeah, as much as I just basically try and keep in stock the materials I need to make, like, my best selling pieces at all times.
Patricia [00:50:36] Has that ever happened to you where there was, like, too much demand and you couldn’t supply? Did that ever happened to you?
Hilary [00:50:43] Yeah, a few times. And so I’m, like, rushed trying to get some of the supplies I need, which I get from the States, so usually doesn’t take too long, but you just never know. There could be something happened, and your package gets delayed, and that’s, like, very stressful. Now, I keep that in mind when I do posts that, you know, anything has the potential to go viral. So, you almost want – you want to be prepared in the sense that if it does that you can fulfill a whole bunch of orders if you need to.
Patricia [00:51:12] [00:51:12]And can you discuss any experiences or strategies you’ve employed to manage growth while maintaining the quality and uniqueness of your jewelry? [7.1s]
Hilary [00:51:22] [00:51:22]Yeah. For me, it’s just, like, I’m constantly shifting gears. I feel like I never stay too stuck on one particular thing. For me right now, like, I’ve been focusing a lot on the one-of-a-kind stuff. So, the growth for me is just expanding into different collections, I think, which reaches, like, different customers too. I think, you know, my one of a kind or my unconventional earrings, that’s like a whole different clientele than, you know, the crystal pieces are, than the sea glass pieces are. So, I feel like right now for growth, I’m almost creating, like, three different collections that cater to three different clients. So yeah, I think for me, rather than trying to expand so much in producing a whole lot, I just try and, you know, expand in the designs themselves, and see what is reaching different audiences. [58.8s]
Patricia [00:52:23] Now, you’re talking about, like, having different collections. I wanted to ask, like, do you have, like, an evergreen, like, collection that you keep making, because obviously, over the years, I’m sure, like, the trends have been changed, like your designs have changed. I’m not sure if you keep certain designs always in stock. Or do you have a line like that? That’s just, like, we’ll have these forever.
Hilary [00:52:45] Yeah. I mean, there’s like, a few pairs of earrings that I may – I’ve had for – in my roster for a, you know, the last decade that they’re just, like, little simple earrings that, like, anybody could wear. They’re affordable. You could buy them for, you know, like a 12 year old, but also for, like, your mom. You know, I think that they just reach, like, a broad range of customers. And, they’re just, like, the perfect little gift, you know, like, there’s something that any retailer could sell, like, up at their cash register, you know, like, they, don’t break the bank. They’re, you know, between, like, 20 to 40 bucks. I feel it’s, like, the sweet spot for just a pair of, like, you know, little earrings or something like that. So yeah, those – I have had designs like that that I had around forever. And then there’s other pieces that I, you know, take a break from and then we’ll bring back, and then people get excited about them again. I think that that’s important to, like, with any brand, you see that, you know, they have an iconic style and then, you know, might go out of style for a little bit, but then they revive it, and everybody’s excited about it again because it’s, you know, back or they change it slightly. If it’s successful once, typically, it should – it will be successful again. Yeah.
Patricia [00:53:58] Is there a piece of jewelry from Dreamboat Lucy that you’re really proud of, and it’s, like, your favorite piece that you’ve created?
Hilary [00:54:05] Probably the coil style earrings, I think, just because I haven’t really seen that before. So, just the fact that I came up with that design myself and ran with it and, you know, have sold like hundreds of those at this point, I think that just the quantity of those that I sold, I think, for being a style that’s not, you know, seen all the time, those were, like – it was such a fun piece to create. And the fact that other people are, like, loving it too is really exciting.
Patricia [00:54:36] The intersection of art and entrepreneurship is unique. How do you navigate the business side without compromising the artistic integrity of Dreamboat Lucy?
Hilary [00:54:48] Yeah, it’s really tough. Like I say, it’s a really tough balance. I think that for me, I’m always going to focus more on the artistic side of things, because that’s my strength, and you know, if the business side is not something that I’ve gotten better at for sure. But I think that for me, the quality and craftsmanship is always going to be my priority. And so, the business side is something that – it just comes, you know, as a part of a necessity, obviously of, like, selling your products. Yeah, I’m always going to focus more on my craft, and then because that’s my focus, and because that’s where I’m putting my energy, I think that, hopefully, I can keep the business side that is, like, not my main focus because the products will just speak for themselves to an extent.
Patricia [00:55:41] Yeah, I definitely see that because you always talk about, like, putting the creative and artistic part of you first and foremost. I think that actually translates to how, you know, successful your brand has been and how many engaged people you have, like, in your online community. I think that’s, like, something other entrepreneurs maybe overlook. They go into a business and think, “Oh, I want to do this for the money. I want to do this for, you know, profit,” but you do this for the passion, and I think it speaks for you. Totally. Right. The product speaks for itself, because that’s where you put the focus in.
Hilary [00:56:15] Yeah. I mean, I think if you want to do something – you want to do something forever, I think that’s got to be the driving force. It’s just because you love to do it, not because you want to make a lot of money doing it. You know, money’s money, but happiness is like a whole – it’s the goal.
Patricia [00:56:32] Yeah, I agree. So, this is our last question. Before we leave, I always just like to ask this to our guests. What are the vibes looking like for Dreamboat Lucy in 2024?
Hilary [00:56:43] The vibes are exciting. I’m like looking – really looking forward to what’s to come. I think that I’ve got some – I’ve got some plans in – on my calendar that I think will be new and exciting. I, like I said, we’re just kind of getting ourselves settled here in a new house, and that always takes time to sort of get things going, but I think we’re there now. So, now I can sort of put some of those plans into action. And so yeah, I think you’ll just see me out and at events a lot more. In person, hopefully, in 2024. And I don’t know, besides that – it’s again – I just, like – I kind of just like to ride the wave and not, like, push anything too hard. You got to test the waters, and see what people are into, and then kind of go from there.
Patricia [00:57:38] Amazing! Thank you so much, Hilary, for being here! Thank you so much for gracing our podcast. Is there anything you’d like to say to our viewers? Before we end this podcast?
Hilary [00:57:48] I don’t know, I guess just thanks for tuning in! Yeah. Besides that, follow along @dreamboatlucy on TikTok, and if you’re more into seeing, like, my house and personal, I post more of that on @hilarymackay on TikTok as well. There’s, like, two totally separate, accounts there. So yeah, I’d love to have you guys check out my things there.
Patricia [00:58:15] Absolutely! We’ll put all of your, like, links up and tell everyone to go visit dreamboatlucy.com for, unique and special jewelry. And thank you everyone who listened to us today! This has been your host, Patricia, and remember, for all your professional business and technical writing needs, there’s only one way to go and that’s with The Write Direction.
