Today we’d like to introduce you to Dani Paquin.
Dani, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was a full-time singer-songwriter living in New York and had started to burn out a bit from the music scene. I was searching for a creative side hustle and was drawn to the idea of jewelry making. I had taught myself basic jewelry making skills in high school and college and so working as a production assistant felt like a good fit, if not a bit of a leap. I worked for a couple of talented designers (thanks Craigs List!), honing my skills and falling in love with semi-precious gemstones. After about a year I started with my own pieces while continuing to pursue music. I did both for a while (think – displays with CDs and jewelry!) then transitioned over to just jewelry and eventually the official formation of Agapantha. That was back in 2004.
The 14 years since (how did that happen??) has been full of all the struggles and triumphs of owning a small business. In that time I have gone from a primarily retail model to selling mostly wholesale, from wire-wrapped gemstones to delicate, minimalist, metal smithed designs – and from part-time to ALL THE TIME with a small but mighty team by my side.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
If you meet an entrepreneur with no struggle… I mean, is that even a thing? There are always going to be challenges, whether manifested through self-doubt, failed ideas, staffing issues, cash flow – the list goes on and on. What gets you through those struggles and on to the stretches of smooth road are the overwhelming positives that remind you that “hey, this IS a great idea” and “yes, I CAN handle it.”
Agapantha Jewelry – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Agapantha is a line of delicate, modern, everyday jewelry. I believe in quality, simplicity, classic style. I also believe that the best fashion feels like an extension of you – not fussy or heavy or requiring too much thought. I create all of the designs with a real woman in mind (like, really real… women I know and admire!) and with the intention of having the pieces, you choose now still feel relevant years down the line. For the last several years, our stacking rings have won the Agapantha popularity contest.
We have over 20 different styles in multiple metals and specialize in curating perfect ring stacks for our clients. The Agapantha Ring and Bangle Bar is so much fun.
Layering/stacking jewelry is such an interactive shopping experience and there’s not much we love more than helping build the perfect stack!
I am aware of course how much choice there is in the jewelry category. Remember that Portlandia skit “She’s making jewelry now!” (https://youtu.be/UBPT1pgByqc). One of the things that sets Agapantha apart is our connection with our customers, retail and wholesale. There are a lot of creative people out there that just want to make, but loathe or just don’t understand the business side. I love both and am always trying to grow as a designer, maker and businesses woman.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
The definition of success is universally subjective and is constantly in flux on a personal level. Currently, success means growth. Personal growth, as a business person and CEO and growth as a company through increased sales and sales outlets. That being said, I live for my personal connections – friends and family – and for me a huge part of success is balance. I can get so overwhelmed and wrapped up in work and that manifests as stress.
That’s no good for anyone, especially my family. So a huge marker of success right now is being able to separate from work and refuel with really being present with my friends, family and community.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.agapantha.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @agapanthajewelry
- Facebook: agapanthajewelry
- Twitter: @agapanthanyc
Image Credit:
Hailley Howard, John Antolos
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