Today we’d like to introduce you to Alice Hernandez.
Hi Alice, 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?
I started Happy Girl Shop back in 2019. I started creating handmade kimonos in the Summer and added on my beaded jewelry designs in October of 2019. When I started, I had no idea what was going to work or anything about running my own business. I kind of just started. It wasn’t until I launched the first bracelet collection that I saw things start to pick up for my brand and I got a much better response from people both online and in person. My first in-person festival was in February 2020… right before the lockdown happened. So during that year, I decided to focus all my efforts on my online business and learn as much as I could about running an online business. Now, month over month and year over year, I am starting to see steady growth by remaining consistent and continuing to learn and grow my business.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road, as many small business owners know, 2020 wasn’t a great year. Although I saw growth, some months were very slow and costs outweighed my profit. Because everything is done online, you get to see your stats and progress, so when you don’t see anything growing or moving, it can be difficult. The biggest struggle to overcome is in your mind.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create handmade semiprecious stone jewelry… specializing in bracelets. Since I was young, I have worn beaded bracelets, and I have loved stacking them and having my own style. I design using semiprecious stones for two reasons… I love the meaning behind the stones and the natural color and textures of the stones.
The thing that makes my shop special is that you can create whatever stack you want. Each bracelet is sold individually so you can put together any stones or styles you like. I like for people to have style options. I design all my bracelets in similar stones or color palettes so that you can mix n match any styles together to create your own personalized stack.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
There is a couple of things I would say are important for those just starting out. Gather funds to solely invest in your business, stay consistent even through the hard times and believe in what you are selling.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.happygirlapparel.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happy.girl_shop/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happygirlapparel
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/happygirl_shop/_created/
