Today we’d like to introduce you to Kate Kim
Hi Kate, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey with Caitlyn Minimalist started with a passion for meaningful, minimalist jewelry. After working as a jewelry maker, I decided to create pieces that resonate with a personal touch, focusing on understated elegance. The brand began as a small operation, and over time, I dedicated myself to refining designs and expanding the collection, aiming to make high-quality yet affordable jewelry accessible to everyone.
As demand grew, so did my ambitions. We’ve since expanded our online presence and ventured into physical retail spaces, including a showroom and our first pop-up store, which opened this year. Every step has been a learning process, from mastering Amazon selling to understanding retail dynamics. I’m deeply invested in Caitlyn Minimalist’s growth and excited to bring more unique, heartfelt designs to life, all while giving back to the community through initiatives like 1% For The Planet.
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?
The journey with Caitlyn Minimalist has definitely had its share of ups and downs. Starting out, one of the biggest challenges was balancing creative work with the demands of running a business. Learning the ropes of inventory management, especially with our affordable yet diverse product range, was essential but tricky. As the brand grew, I faced the challenge of building a team and managing responsibilities—especially with our recent expansion into physical retail, including our first pop-up store.
Navigating the logistics of store setups, managing model image rights for storefronts, and keeping our collections fresh have all come with steep learning curves. Each hurdle taught me valuable lessons, though, and helped shape both the brand and me as a founder. Today, I’m grateful for the growth that came from those struggles, which have made Caitlyn Minimalist stronger and more resilient.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Caitlyn Minimalist is all about creating jewelry that tells a story. We specialize in crafting minimalist, meaningful pieces that resonate personally with each wearer, whether it’s a dainty necklace that holds a cherished initial, or a ring with a subtle yet sentimental design. Our approach has always been to make jewelry that’s affordable yet high-quality, and we prioritize attention to detail in each piece we produce.
What sets us apart is our commitment to both quality and accessibility. We’re proud to offer jewelry that people can wear every day, whether for a special occasion or as a reminder of something meaningful in their lives. I’m especially proud of our connection with our customers—they come to us because they know they’ll find designs with heart and personality.
Another unique aspect of Caitlyn Minimalist is our commitment to giving back. We’re an Asian female-founded brand with a purpose, and through initiatives like 1% For The Planet, we’re able to make an impact beyond just jewelry. We want our customers to know that when they choose Caitlyn Minimalist, they’re supporting a brand that’s committed not only to beautiful designs but also to community and sustainability.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
For those just starting out, my biggest piece of advice is to embrace the learning curve. When I started Caitlyn Minimalist, I quickly realized that building a brand involves wearing many hats, from creative design to managing operations and understanding the business side of things. Don’t be afraid to dive into areas that might feel outside your comfort zone—you’ll gain skills that are essential for long-term growth.
Another thing I wish I knew earlier is the importance of building a strong team and delegating. You can only grow so far on your own, and having people who share your vision is invaluable. Surround yourself with talented individuals who bring different strengths to the table, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Finally, stay true to your vision and values, but be open to adapting along the way. The market changes, and so will your audience’s needs. Flexibility, along with a commitment to your brand’s core purpose, is key to building something lasting. And most of all, enjoy the journey—each challenge brings you one step closer to achieving your vision.
Pricing:
- Affordable Range: Caitlyn Minimalist offers high-quality, meaningful jewelry at accessible price points, with most pieces ranging from $20 to $50
- Custom Pieces: Many of our designs are customizable, allowing customers to personalize jewelry with initials, names, or symbols at no extra charge, keeping it affordable and unique.
- Collections: Each collection—like our popular Coquette line—has been thoughtfully priced to balance quality and value, ensuring that everyone can find something special without breaking the bank.
- Special Discounts: We occasionally offer discounts and promotions, especially around the holidays, to make gifting even easier.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://caitlynminimalist.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitlynminimalist/
- Yelp: https://caitlynminimalist.com/pages/store
