Today we’d like to introduce you to Sammy-Jo Rocco.
Hi Sammy-Jo, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
JoRocco is the manifestation of my life story. It started when I would stay up late to bead necklaces that matched my school outfits in the seventh grade and evolved to realizing work would feel liberating if I could manage to turn my love for jewelry into a functioning business. Fast forward seven years later, my jewelry had a name – JoRocco. At the time, I was between JoRocco and Calla Lily, and when a classmate exclaimed that JoRocco is “too masculine,” I knew in that moment I had created something that would challenge traditional ideology. This bold foundation is the armor surrounding every design I create, as well as the functionality of the brand. Today, when I make a decision for my business, it’s using that same gut instinct that knew to pick JoRocco.
Alright, 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?
Signing the termination lease to JoRoccos brick and mortar in Soho New York due to COVID-19 was a moment of real fear. The majority of JoRoccos sales were made in-person, and I feared for my livelihood and the life of my company. I never thought I would leave New York and move to Miami (or anywhere else). Through this great change, I’ve learned that its life’s not so subtle way of offering guidance. Also, never say “never!” The greatest challenge of my professional career gifted me the most valuable set of lessons. As a business owner, you are faced with opportunities to learn and grow every day. I’ve learned that being open to listening and asking questions presents your business with the opportunity to evolve. When I started JoRocco at nineteen, the only thing I was sure of at the time was that I really enjoyed making jewelry. I had no idea how to generate an income for myself, how to build a website, or even how to be a leader. But I was sure of my passion for creating and my mission to bring confidence to women everywhere. Each question asked launched JoRocco one step closer to where it is today and has taught me so much about sustaining a business through the most challenging of times. For me, one of the most exciting parts of entrepreneurship is that we are never done learning and growing. As a business owner, you definitely have to be comfortable and open to unforeseen challenges and the changes they bring. Your passion for your craft and greater purpose will be the driving force behind it all, and every day when I open the doors to my store in Upper Buena Vista, Miami, it’s a reminder that I’ve made it out of the storm. I see so clearly now the positive purpose behind the obstacles I’ve faced, and though there were many, there are more blessings to count.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Known for our bold statement jewelry that brings out your inner confidence, our mission is to inspire all women to live life boldly as they celebrate their individuality. From statement necklaces to handmade body chain accessories designed in New York City, I’m most proud of how our jewelry makes people feel. We view our features in publications like Maxim, NYLON, Cosmo, and NYLON Espanol as another amazing outlet for connecting with women around the world. Jewelry is about connection. It’s an emotional purchase that our customers make when they try on one of our pieces and feel transformed. I’m most proud of the individual connections that I make every day at my store in Upper Buena Vista. My customers consider JoRocco as a gift to a friend who is going through a hard time, or often they themselves are reminded of how empowered they are when they wear one of my designs. It’s so much more than jewelry- it’s the message. The foundation of JoRocco is rooted in unity. We began with a mission to build an inclusive community where all are welcomed and personal expression is highlighted in all we do. More than anything else, I am so proud that this shines through for our customers when they view JoRocco.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Be resourceful and grow slowly. Success is a process made up of many tiny achievements and years of hard work. Stay focused on your short-term goals in order to reach your long-term ones, and don’t forget that the definition of success looks differently for each of us. Take (smart) risks- it’s the surest way to evolve your business! Lastly, never stop asking questions. We stop growing the second we decide that we know it all. Remember, each of our journeys is unique. Be authentic, trust your gut, and enjoy the ride.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.JoRocco.com
- Instagram: @JOROCCOJEWELRY
- Others: Store Address:
Upper Buena Vista184 NE 50th Terrace,Miami, FL 33137
Image Credits
@dariaarch.photo @samayahjaramillo
