Launching and growing a jewelry brand is an exciting adventure, punctuated by challenges, lessons learned along the way, and small victories that make you forget everything. After five years of entrepreneurship, I'm sharing with you my journey, my mistakes (because yes, there were some!), and my advice for those who dream of starting their own business.
Beginning entrepreneurship: an innate vocation?
Mayrena Paris has been in existence for five years now, and yet I never said to myself, "One day, I'll have my own business..." And yet, here I am, right in the middle of it!
After graduating from a science baccalaureate with the idea of working in the medical field, design came to me like a revelation. My father often told me: "It's better to be the manager of your own company than to hold a high-ranking position in a large corporation." An inspiring philosophy... but it all depends on each person's profile. In any case, it was he who encouraged me to believe in my project!
The beginnings of Mayrena Paris: an idea born in 2015 from a school project
Mayrena Paris was born somewhat by chance in 2015, during a design project at school. While working on kitchen tongs (yes, really!), I used a scrap of metal to create a bracelet. This model, called L'Origine, marked the beginning of the adventure.
A friend saw it, I traded it for another piece of jewelry, and unexpectedly, word of mouth began. At first, my jewelry was raw, made of brass, without engraving... but people liked it. Very quickly, the idea of launching my own brand took hold.
I thought I'd make everything myself, but I quickly realized that my two hands wouldn't be enough! So I found my very first manufacturer, and Mayrena was born.
Mayrena Paris's biggest challenges: jewelry that doesn't change color
The biggest challenge? Believing in my project and never giving up. The hardest part was maintaining impeccable quality while managing growth. Because at some point, you can't be everywhere at once, and our manufacturers can make mistakes.
In 2023, my brand was doing well, but I was working tirelessly. So I took an ambitious gamble for 2024: switching to gold manufacturing, hoping to sell fewer products but with better margins. Except that this strategic repositioning disrupted my entire business model. After eight months of prototyping and reflection, I realized this choice wasn't right for me.
Agreeing to backtrack was a valuable lesson. But my obsession remained the same: to offer costume jewelry that doesn't change color. And the good news... I found the solution! To be continued with the upcoming collections. ;)
Essential skills for success as an entrepreneur
In my opinion, several skills are essential:
- Boundless creativity (and a notebook to jot down all your ideas at 3 a.m.).
- A strong brand image to capture attention.
- Endurance, even a LOT of it!
- Good financial management, because a margin miscalculation can be fatal.
- Versatility, because at the beginning, you're everything: designer, accountant, customer service, and even delivery person if necessary.
- Good interpersonal skills, because talking about your project opens unexpected doors.
How to manage the stress of entrepreneurship ?
Stress management is a daily struggle, especially at the beginning. My little tips?
- Set a schedule (and stick to it, even if it's tempting to work non-stop).
- Taking care of myself (exercise, sleep, and well-deserved Netflix breaks).
- Allowing myself moments to relax (because no, checking emails at 11 p.m. is not a hobby).
- Celebrating every success, even the small ones.
- Structuring my days to avoid mental overload.
The most rewarding moments
There isn't just one highlight, but several recognitions that have boosted me:
- L'Oréal Paris used my jewelry in a campaign with Kendall Jenner (yes, I screamed with joy when I saw that!).
- The Louis Vuitton Foundation exhibits my creations in the museum boutique.
- The loyalty of my customers, which remains my greatest pride!
The future of Mayrena Paris
2025 looks exciting! I plan to double my collection and strengthen my commitment to even more sustainable and high-quality jewelry. It's a big challenge in the world of jewelry... but nothing scares me!
Any advice you have for my five-year-old self?
Go for it and dare 100%! What seems insurmountable today will become routine tomorrow. Oh, and also: sleep more, drink less coffee... and stop doubting yourself—it's pointless!
