Today we’d like to introduce you to Gorjana Reidel.
Hi Gorjana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My childhood home in Serbia was extremely creative and that “DIY” attitude had a lasting impact on me. When I went to college, I knew I wanted to continue to channel that creativity in fashion. Although I studied marketing in college, I landed an internship in cosmetics at Neiman Marcus. After I graduated, I worked as an assistant manager in the jewelry department and that’s where I discovered my passion for jewelry design. I fell in love with jewelry because it’s intimate and timeless. You can wear a piece of jewelry everyday and it eventually becomes a part of you.
After learning different aspects of the jewelry business from a local designer and constant research, I set out to design fun, versatile jewelry that all of my friends would love – at an accessible price point.
I co-founded gorjana with my husband, Jason, at age 26, which has since evolved into a national business with over 20 retail locations across the country.
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?
It’s never been easy – that is a complete falsehood. Owning your own business is the hardest thing. As the business evolves, there’s always new challenges. It’s like having a child – there’s always new phases and challenges that you have to – and will overcome.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am so proud of the company and the culture we’ve built. It’s like a family. I’ve loved seeing the constant evolution and growth of not only our company but of our employees.
I’m also so happy that what we’ve created isn’t just product — I love seeing how much our customers love the jewelry. I am so grateful for the stories and reactions we get on a daily basis.
Our brand is known for quality. We really focus on details when crafting each collection. We care about making the best possible product. We want you to love and wear your gorjana jewelry for a long time. If there is ever a case where something breaks or tarnishes, we’ll replace it for free – the best customer experience is important to us. And I’m so happy that what we’ve created isn’t just a product — I love seeing how much our customers love the jewelry. I am so grateful for the stories and reactions we get on a daily basis. I am also so proud of the company and the culture we’ve built. It’s like a family. I’ve loved seeing the constant evolution and growth of not only our company but of our employees.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
Count the cost before you start. Make sure you’re all in. Make sure you’re realistic about what it takes to own your own business. There’s such a misconception and glamorization of owning your own business these days. Being an entrepreneur is a challenge, with a lot of stress and long nights. However, it’s super rewarding. It’s just not for the faint of heart:)
I’m so impatient, so I wish I knew how long it would take to build a successful business. That would’ve eased some of that early anxiety I had. A successful business is not this major overnight success. It’s a bunch of small wins along the way.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gorjana.com
- Instagram: @gorjana
Image Credits:
Gorjana
