I don’t know about you, but I love personalized items made specifically for me. Whether it’s a name plate, my initials etched on something or a message designed just for me, there’s just something so precious about receiving unique, custom-made accessories.

Today we’re gonna talk about how one entrepreneur took the messages of her faith, married that with people’s love for personalization and turned it all into a thriving jewelry business.

Authentically Made Jewelry

Go ahead and introduce yourself. Tell us how long you’ve been in business?

Hello my name is Latonya Moore, and I am the creative artist behind the jewelry at Alexandria’s Authentically Made Jewelry.  I have been in business since 2013.

What was it that inspired you or motivated you to start your business?

I started Alexandria’s Authentically Made Jewelry in honor of my daughters and my faith.  It is a combination of the both of these things.  The business name is taken from my daughters’ middle name.  Authentically made stems from the scripture Psalm 139:14 which states we are fearfully and wonderfully made.  Both of these phrases were already being used which is how I landed on authentically made.  Being authentic sums up my purpose.  I have learned that you can’t help or encourage others if you aren’t being real.

What is it about your products that sets you apart from your competition?

Each piece of jewelry created for Alexandria’s Authentically Made Jewelry is created by me.  I put a lot of thought and prayer into each piece I create because the jewelry is faith-based.  When a customer purchases a piece, not only do they know they are getting quality, but they also know that I took time to make sure their piece is just right.  Although there are lots of other jewelry designers who work with metal, leather, and hand stamp, I do not look at them as my competition.  This is simply because we are artists, and our works are going to be reflective of who we are.  I will say that I use the best materials that I can find to make each piece so I guess this is something that sets me a part.

What do you feel are some of your biggest challenge as an entrepreneur?

My biggest challenge is not being able to be everywhere at the same time.  I have to manage my time wisely.  I have to think about which events will work best for my business.  I have to also dedicate time on social media.  I can’t do all these things everyday, but I try to do the best that I can. 

What piece of advice, that you wish someone had given to you, would you give to anyone looking to start their own business today?

I think I did receive a good piece of advice in my earlier years, it was not to give up.  Growing a business takes time.  We don’t often see the struggles behind the business when we are buying our favorite products, but all businesses have growing pains and that’s how they get better over time. 

If you’re on the hunt for your next memorable gift or maybe even a much-needed inspirational treat for yourself, check out Latonya’s creations at Alexandria’s Authentically Made Jewelry. 

Just for being the star that you are, Latonya would like to gift you with a great discount on your next customized piece. 

Enjoy 25% off any pair of earrings and 10% off any bracelet. With discount codes Bracelet10 and EARRING25 good through 8/6/16. You can also customize your pieces!

Shop authenticallymade.com 

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