Hi Monique, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I started making earrings after following a strong urge to visit the bead section at a nearby craft store. I had no clue why, but I trusted that gut feeling. As soon as I got there, the ideas started pouring in. So I bought a bunch of beads, went back home, and started creating. I had never made earrings before, but after making my first few pairs up on the spot. I thought to myself, “Hey, I’m pretty good at this!” and when I put them on, I felt so good about myself. I felt like a QUEEN! I instantly knew that I wanted other women to experience the same feeling. Queen Essentials was born that day, and I’ve been going ever since.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. I recently started my business in February of 2021, and I am a self-taught designer, so I had to learn jewelry making and business management in a short period of time. One of my biggest challenges was learning about the materials and how to incorporate them in my pieces; who knew there were so many different types of materials, for example, wire types, wire sizes, wire gauges, stones,! Also, as a new business and a one-woman show, I wear many hats, like designer and creator, marketing and social media manager, creative director, photographer, customer support. I’m probably missing a few job titles, but you get the point.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I design and handcraft statement earrings to celebrate and empower women to own their individuality and shine their beautiful inner light. My design’s inspiration comes from art, geometry, life, movement, and nature, all beautifully complex forces that are unique, powerful, and have unduplicable depth, just like us.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along the way is to ask for help when needed. We may be skilled at many things, but we can’t do it all. So it’s best to get support when needed and connect with others who have the skills you don’t currently possess to collaborate or learn from. Doing so will help you grow as an individual and help you achieve your goals faster.