Today we’d like to introduce you to Karen Ohlgisser.
Hi Karen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Karen Ohlgisser, and I am the proud Founder and Owner of Neshi Designs Corp, a fine jewelry business located in Los Angeles, California. My story begins with my family – as do many others. My parents have been in the jewelry business for over 40 years. My dad initiated our family business, King Plutarco Inc., and soon after, my grandparents, mom, uncle, and aunt joined in, forming a beautiful family enterprise and, most importantly, a resilient, lifelong team. From a young age, I learned the power of teamwork, love, and gratitude in achieving success. I cherished the notion of celebrating not just my own victories but those of my loved ones, too.
My passion for jewelry blossomed early, nurtured by the exposure to our family business and its commitment to exceptional quality. My aspiration was to one day lead this legacy. Unlike my parents, I had the privilege of attending university, and earning a bachelor’s degree, becoming a first-generation graduate. At Chapman University, where I majored in Psychology. I explored ways to integrate psychological insights into business practices and human relationships. Business can be complex and can profoundly affect relationships, but I inherited from my father the belief that genuine success stems from a foundation of love. Goodness begets goodness; there’s no room for deceit, competition, or disrespect.
My final year at Chapman was marked by personal and academic challenges. Amidst endings and uncertainties, I confronted tough decisions about my future. However, these trials afforded me ample time for reflection. I delved into literature on human relationships, prioritizing deep self-care and mastering the principles of effective communication. It was during this period that I encountered Inner Bonding, a transformative process centered on self-love. While the concept of self-love may seem cliché, I discovered its profound impact on personal growth and interpersonal connections. Nurturing oneself amidst life’s chaos is indeed challenging, but it’s essential for radiating love outwardly.
In today’s world rife with animosity, our greatest power lies in embodying love. While we may aspire to change others, true transformation begins with ourselves. By consistently embodying and spreading love, we become agents of positive change, inspiring those around us to do the same.
One day, I aspire to take over my family business and continue their legacy—it’s my dream. However, for the time being, I’ve established Neshi Designs Corp as a sister company, offering fine jewelry at more affordable prices. The pieces I create are delicate yet carry profound significance. I’ve named the company after the Hebrew word “Neshika,” which means kiss, my favorite form of showing love. Neshi is founded on love and will always be full of it. The goal of Neshi Designs is to offer the finest pieces with unique designs, emanating love through them and fostering a ripple effect of compassion and expression.
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?
Starting a company at the age of 22 has been a formidable journey, one filled with both exhilarating highs and daunting challenges. As I embarked on this entrepreneurial endeavor, I quickly realized that the path to success was far from straightforward. However, amidst the uncertainty and the trials, one unwavering pillar of support stood tall: my family.
Their unwavering support, mentorship, and guidance have been invaluable assets on this tumultuous journey. From imparting timeless wisdom gained through decades of business experience to offering a listening ear and words of encouragement during moments of doubt, my family has been my rock. Their belief in my vision and unwavering encouragement have fueled my determination to press forward, even when the odds seemed stacked against me.
Yet, despite their steadfast support, navigating the intricacies of starting a business in today’s digital age has proven to be a formidable challenge. With the landscape of commerce evolving rapidly, particularly with the rise of social media, I found myself grappling with a whole new set of rules and dynamics that my family could not assist me in, as it was a whole different game. Understanding the nuances of digital marketing, building an online presence, and leveraging social media platforms effectively have been steep learning curves that I’ve had to navigate with perseverance and resilience.
Nevertheless, with each obstacle encountered, I’ve found solace in the knowledge that I am not alone in this journey. With the unwavering support of my family by my side, I’ve gained the courage to confront challenges head-on and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of modern business. Their guidance has not only equipped me with the necessary tools and knowledge but has also instilled in me the confidence to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams relentlessly.
As I reflect on the journey thus far, I am filled with gratitude for the unwavering support of my family. Their belief in me has been the driving force behind my pursuit of entrepreneurship, propelling me forward even in the face of adversity. While the road ahead may still be fraught with challenges, I am confident that with the guidance of my family and the lessons learned along the way, I will continue to navigate the path of entrepreneurship with determination, resilience, and unwavering resolve.
As you know, we’re big fans of Neshi Designs Corp. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
In the world of fine jewelry, every piece tells a story—a story of timeless elegance, impeccable craftsmanship, and unparalleled beauty. As the proud owner of a fine jewelry business, I am privileged to play a role in crafting these narratives, each piece a masterpiece in its own right.
At my jewelry business, we specialize in the creation of exquisite pieces crafted from the finest materials. From 14k and 18k gold to lustrous platinum, our jewelry is meticulously crafted to stand the test of time, embodying a perfect union of luxury and sophistication.
Central to our ethos is a commitment to using only the highest quality materials and being extremely fair with prices. Each diamond and gemstone adorning our pieces is carefully selected for its exceptional brilliance, clarity, and color. Whether it’s the mesmerizing sparkle of a diamond or the vibrant hues of a precious gemstone, every stone in our collection exudes an aura of elegance and refinement.
In a world inundated with mass-produced jewelry, we pride ourselves on offering pieces that are as unique as the individuals who wear them. From classic designs to modern creations, our collection spans a diverse array of styles, ensuring that there’s something for every taste and occasion.
But beyond the allure of our jewelry lies a deeper story—one of passion, dedication, and a profound love for the craft. Each piece that leaves our studio is infused with the care and attention to detail that only a true artisan can provide, a testament to our unwavering commitment to excellence.
As I reflect on the journey that has brought me to this point, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share my love for fine jewelry with the world. Each piece that we create is not just a reflection of our craftsmanship but a celebration of the beauty and elegance that enriches our lives.
In a world where trends may come and go, fine jewelry remains a timeless symbol of enduring beauty and sophistication. And as we continue to craft our exquisite pieces, we invite you to join us on this journey—a journey of elegance, luxury, and, above all, timeless beauty.
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly reshaped our lives in profound ways, forcing us to confront unprecedented challenges and uncertainties. Yet, amidst the chaos and turmoil, it was during this tumultuous period that I gleaned one of life’s most invaluable lessons—the importance of love, family, and human connection.
As the world came to a standstill and we retreated into the safety of our homes, I found myself reassessing my priorities and reevaluating what truly mattered most in life. Stripped of the distractions and busyness of everyday life, I discovered a newfound appreciation for the simple joys of spending quality time with loved ones, cherishing moments of togetherness, and nurturing meaningful relationships.
In the absence of social gatherings and extraneous distractions, I found solace in the warmth and comfort of my family’s embrace. We laughed together, cried together, and supported one another through the darkest of times, finding strength in our unwavering bond and love for one another. It was during these moments that I realized that amidst life’s uncertainties, it is our relationships with others that sustain us and give life its true meaning.
As the world gradually began to reopen and life returned to a semblance of normalcy, I carried with me the invaluable lessons that I had learned during the lockdown. In my work, I sought to infuse these principles of love, family, and human connection into everything that I do.
At my jewelry business, I strive to create more than just beautiful pieces of adornment—I aim to craft tangible expressions of love and affection, symbols of the deep bonds that connect us to one another. Each piece that I create is imbued with the same care, attention, and devotion that I share with my own family, a testament to the profound impact that love and human connection can have on our lives.
Whether it’s a sparkling diamond ring commemorating a special milestone or a heartfelt gift to celebrate a cherished relationship, my goal is to create jewelry that not only dazzles the eye but touches the heart. By infusing my work with the values of love, family, and human connection, I strive to create pieces that resonate with the deepest emotions and aspirations of my clients, forging lasting connections that transcend the boundaries of time and space.
As we navigate the uncertainties of life in a post-pandemic world, I am reminded each day of the enduring power of love, family, and human connection. And in my work, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these timeless values with others, creating moments of joy, beauty, and connection that serve as a beacon of hope in an ever-changing world.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @neshi_designs
Image Credits
@niccolovalentine
