July is Independent Retailer Month, which celebrates small businesses throughout the country. The prevalence of “big box” stores such as Target and Wal-Mart often hurt “mom and pop” stores, frequently putting them out of business. Independent retailers work hard to compete in today’s market, looking to superior customer service and higher quality items to compensate for more expensive prices. We took some time to interview Olga Pinn, co-founder of Little Sparkles. They sell trendy, designer-inspired sterling silver jewelry to salons and boutiques. Read the full interview below!
What was the inspiration behind your business?
I have always wanted to have my own business. It was my wonderful husband who inspired me to step up and finally do it! One day on a sunny Sunday afternoon in Pacific Beach, he asked if I would be interested in starting a new jewelry business together. I smiled, thought about it for ten seconds, and said yes!
As a reporter and an editor for an international jewelry publication for many years, I interviewed a lot of leading jewelry brands in the United States, China, Europe and worldwide. I asked a million questions about their success and all things jewelry. I am very grateful for this opportunity to learn from the best!
Michael, my husband and my partner, has been working in the jewelry business his whole life as a retailer and a wholesaler of fine diamond jewelry. I believe together we make a very strong team.
What does it mean to be an independent retailer?
It means you really need to be able to connect with your customers and understand what they need. Because they’re not just buying your product, they also are buying a feeling or an emotion that your product will make them a little bit happier.
What is the greatest challenge in being an independent retailer or working with one?
Working with independent retailers is always fun, but they are very, very busy people. Their first priority is their customers, not vendors. You should be able to work with their busy schedule and respect every minute of their time. My job is to make working with me and our product super easy and beneficial to them.
What is your process for getting your product sold in an independent retailer’s venue?
We offer a fantastic consignment program to our partners, mostly salons and boutiques. We provide everything they need to be successful selling our jewelry, and create a nice shopping experience for their customers. I love watching them become successful with our jewelry line even when they have NO retail experience! We provide all necessary training, as well.
How will you be celebrating Independent Retailer’s Week?
I am answering your questions on the plane back to San Diego. After travelling overseas for a month, I just cannot wait to celebrate with my husband and my partner. One thing I can say for sure, there will be champagne!
