Today we’d like to introduce you to Helen Stiver.
Hi Helen, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Working at a non-profit providing direct services to people with disabilities, I found myself needing an outlet for accumulated stress and compassion fatigue. Exploring my creative side, I began learning how to make simple charms and beaded jewelry with the intention of creating meaningful pieces that would last. While contemplating a name from my business I chose the lotus, a symbol of strength through adversity, beauty in transformation. While the lotus is still an integral symbol for my business and the inspiration for my signature collection, my offerings continue to expand as I learn new techniques and discover additional inspiration. Owning and operating a small jewelry brand continually offers opportunities to learn and grow, this year my focus has been learning how to expand into more retail locations via wholesale.
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?
As most small business owners and entrepreneurs know it is rarely a smooth road, struggles along the way help us to learn and grow. When I first began, I didn’t have a well-thought-out or planned product offering, I simply made what I liked, listed it, and hoped it would sell. Additionally, I didn’t consider the costs involved in running a business, the initial investment to create product, and the uncertainty of a return on this investment. Over the years I have taken courses and workshops, not only to improve my skills but more importantly to better run my business. One of the most integral aspects of working through the struggles I’ve faced is the generous support of those in the maker/artist community. Over the years this group has provided valuable business advice, continuous encouragement, and shared resources and information. As a way to return this generosity, for the past three years, I have produced the Share Joy Holiday Gift Guide. This year the guide features 20+ California-based female entrepreneurs. Following the premiss of strength in unity, collectively we will reach a wider audience of prospective shoppers and introduce our own followers to other talented artists and makers, sharing joy as we do so.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Charming Little Lotus represents my love of nature and philosophy to live a life of meaning and intention. My objective is to provide jewelry that is more than adornment, it is jewelry for women who desire tangible reminders of the strength and beauty that they are manifesting in their daily lives. In a time where fast fashion is thankfully losing popularity, my jewelry is made from precious materials, in a sustainable and eco-conscious environment, made to last and to be worn for generations. I’m proud to be able to provide pieces that resonate with so many, jewelry that empowers women to rely on the strength within.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc.?
I’m definitely a fan of a good success story, both in podcasts or in an audible book. I love listening during my commute to my 8-5 and while I’m working in the studio. A few of my current favs are the podcast “How I built This” and Viola Davis’ “Finding Me”. Listening to how others have found strength and courage to overcome adversity inspires me to continue to work hard and strive to achieve my goals, to reach for my dreams.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.charminglittlelotus.com/holiday-gift-guide-2022
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charminglittlelotus/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4charminglittlelotus/
- Other: https://www.charminglittlelotus.com/
