Money Date With Love Winter
/Every Friday I recommend having a money date…with a mimosa. Hence the name of my blog, Money & Mimosas. Your money date is your special time to review your finances, reflect on your goals, and celebrate your wins. Feel free to do it alone or with your money buddy. If you’d like a step-by-step guide for your money date, click here to download your free checklist.
In these money date articles, I feature small business owners who practice sustainability and ethical sourcing. If you love their story, consider purchasing from their company. Ethical shopping is a beautiful practice of using your money to help create peace and prosperity on planet Earth.
In this article, you’ll meet Delwynne Winter, the woman behind Love Winter a boutique jewellery store, based in Auckland, New Zealand.
What inspired you to create your business?
I was actually looking at getting back into graphic + web design after my kids both started school - and while looking for courses, I came across a jewellery program. So it started almost by accident, but I was very determined to make it work, as I had a young family to support.
How does your company focus on quality and sustainability?
As a small business, my main focus is on recycling, sustainability, and local resourcing. 90% of my materials are locally sourced. I recycle all my scrap metal and only use stones that are ethically mined. With Covid -19 slowing international buying down, its been a lovely silver lining seeing people being more mindful with their purchasing, and quite a shift to supporting small and local businesses.
Why is it important to support handcrafted jewelers over fast fashion alternatives?
There are so many positives to buying quality, handmade jewellery.
Mass production is not only harsh on the environment but also often workers aren’t fairly paid. It’s often poorly made, doesn’t last as long, due to poor material quality and fabrication.
Following the capsule wardrobe way of thinking, being more mindful when buying clothing and accessories means you may spend a little more per item, but you don’t follow seasonal fads. Choose pieces that make your heart sing and will last longer - and direct from the people who made them. Less waste!
What advice would you give to another woman who is thinking about turning her passions into a full-time business?
A) Go for it! There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing customers respond positivity to something you’ve created!
B) Find your community! For me, it’s other makers and creators.
Joining online forums, or selling at markets and fairs - that way you have a support network. Collabing with other small businesses is also a great way to get your brand out there. And it feels good to share and help other girls out. It definitely comes back around to you!
C) Be smart when choosing a website platform - look for something that will fully integrate with your invoicing and shipping... because who likes spending time on admin!?
To learn more and buy directly from Delwynne, visit Love Winter Jewellery’s website.