C+L: What inspired you to start this business journey with Opal & Amber?
O&A: I began making soap as a creative outlet. I always enjoyed finding new projects to work on but nothing ever really stuck until I began making soap and since I'm pretty particular about what I put on my skin, it was a win-win! What started as a hobby, quickly turned into a passion project. I began making so much soap that I began giving it away to family and friends. When I got so many positive responses from some of my first batches, I kept going and then finally decided to make it official and launch Opal & Amber as a business.
C+L: What are some of your passions, and how to they show through your business?
O&A: Although I am 100% an introvert, I really enjoy meeting and connecting with new people. I love to make people smile and laugh and Opal & Amber has enabled me to make friends outside my circle that I wouldn't have met otherwise!
C+L: What are some of the biggest struggles that you have faced as a small business owner and how have you overcome them?
O&A: I suppose one of my biggest struggles as a small business owner is simply figuring it out. I quickly learned that there is much more to owning a soap business than making the soap. Luckily, I've had the opportunity to surround myself with other small business owners who have been where I am and are happy to share their knowledge with me.
C+L: What are your successes and how how do you celebrate them?
O&A: At the beginning of every year, I create a vision board which lives on the desktop background of my laptop. This year, my vision board included some goals for Opal & Amber, many of which I've already surpassed (woohoo!), such as growing my soap inventory and expanding to offer other products, too. When I reach a goal, I know that I'm ready for the next step, so to celebrate I take the next leap and try something new!
C+L: Which pieces from Chloe + Lois are your favorite and why?
O&A: I love the Esther's Pearl necklace because it is simple, classic and feminine. The Rose Gold Lois ring is next on my list!
Chloe + Lois is a Demi fine jewelry brand founded by Brooke Anthony in Upstate New York. All stud earrings, hoops, necklaces, rings and bracelets are skillfully crafted from sterling silver with rose gold and 14k gold plating, featuring semi precious gemstones and simulated opal. Designed with simplicity, versatility and layering in mind, each piece makes the perfect addition to any jewelry collection.
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