Today we’d like to introduce you to Tiffany Hamilton.
Hi Tiffany, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Tiffany, owner and designer of T.Marie Accessories.
Growing up in NY, I’ve always had a love for fashion and making a fashion statement. Working in the city, I grew up loving all things accessories. They can make or break an outfit. To me, there was no better way to make a good statement than with shoes or jewelry. Since I can’t/won’t make shoes (I just buy them), I chose the latter, JEWELRY. I’ve made statement pieces here and there, even for fashion shows, but never really had enough time to dedicate to it. While the pandemic was a very difficult time for many of us, it afforded me time to really slow down and get back into something I love: making jewelry. In 2020, with the support of loving family & friends, I decided to share my passion, and T.Marie Accessories was created. It has truly been my happy place.
I invite you to find your happy place in one or more of our handmade lightweight earrings. While we primarily use polymer clay, we also use a variety of materials, including but not limited to resin, metals, yarn, and leather to create statement pieces to fit your style. Our earrings are available in all shapes, sizes, and designs for post and clip-on. While I am unsure where this path will lead, I am loving the journey, and thank you for being a part of it!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has not been a smooth road by any means. I’m unsure what small business has had a totally smooth road. In the beginning, I doubted myself a lot. Is my work good enough? Will people like it? Will they buy it? Is it creative and unique enough? I get in creative ruts where my mind goes blank. I want to create something but have no idea what that is. I am not a marketing person, and although social media like Instagram has been key in growing my business, it takes work and time to learn how to truly market when all I want to do is create. Trying to get sales and followers up are another challenge. It feels like 2 steps forward 1 step back, but I’m determined to keep learning and growing.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Working as an Executive Assistant, I love organization and getting things done. Checking off a to-do list makes my heart smile. However, I’ve always been a creative, so my role always encompassed marketing aspects and event planning, etc. I’ve established “Fun Committees” at work to boost office morale while at the same time having some needed fun, especially during tax season. Right now I’m focused on learning and growing this small business while still have enjoying the process. We have lots of new products on the way and I can’t wait to share them.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
The biggest advice I would say is utilize your resources, your family, friends, co-workers, mailman, etc. You never know who these people know and can put you in touch with to help grow your business. Also, don’t just sell a product; sell yourself. I know that sounds weird, but people like getting to know you, your personality, your likes, your dislikes. Don’t give them too much lol, but let them know you, the person first, and then they are more eager to look into your business and support.
Pricing:
- 15
- 50
Contact Info:
- Website: tmarieaccessories.com
- Instagram: @T.Marie.Accessories