Today we’d like to introduce you to Libby Diament
Hi Libby, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Libby Diament started selling her designs in 2008 at craft fairs in NYC, while working for MAC Cosmetics corporate. She completed a Comprehensive Jewelry Training program in the evenings while working at MAC. In 2010, she embarked full time as Diament and fell in love with retail.
For 15 years, Libby scoured the country for unique vintage parts to incoporate into her jewelry line. She has exhibited at hundreds of craft fairs and enjoys meeting customers face to face.
In 2017, the opportunity came about to open a store in the Washington D.C. area and the second store was opened in Arlington, VA in 2022. The retail stores are very fun and colorful! We love the idea of escaping reality, even if only for a few minutes. You can find Diament online as well.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
After 15 years in business, I can tell you that small business retail always has ups and downs. With rising costs recently, we are working hard to find products that customers can love without breaking the bank. Small business is hard work and not for the faint of heart. I always tell younger entrepreneurs that because, as the owner you wear so many hats and you will face hardships. Another challenge has been working to grow the online business without a large budget for advertising. Social media is important with that, however it’s easy to get lost on todays platforms. Persevering during the difficult times can pay off in the long run, but it can be stressful. It’s important to save for a rainy day during prosperous times!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
We specialize in vintage old stock jewelry that we make in house. I love the quality of vintage jewelry and it holds up better than most newer stuff. We are known as being a bit of a treasure box of goods. You will find unique jewelry and gifts in the stores and online. It is important that we purchase many of our boutique items from women owned brands. The store vibe is empowering and up-lifting. I am most proud when someone comes into the stores and says how much they enjoy it. I love having a community space where people can get away from the stresses of life and just have fun. We stock lots of merchandise that makes people laugh and it’s the best feeling when I hear little chuckles as people walk through.
What makes you happy?
As a small business owner, happiness comes from the home of course with family and friends. But the stores feel like an extension of home. I love the simple things of owning a business. For example, I love when I make a new store display, or shift some products around and they start selling better. Consumer behavior is fascinating and figuring out why people buy things. It’s like a puzzle. I love a great conversation with a customer that was unexpected or an interaction with a delivery driver. I find joy from the day to day tasks such as choosing merchandise. My Dad once said that you are lucky if you enjoy your job say 70% of the time. I feel lucky to do something that I enjoy daily. I feel grateful to look back and to see how each day has propelled myself and the brand further. It’s the baby steps that you do day in a day out that very slowly add up over time. As a bonus, I have some great employees that make me laugh regularly!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.diamentjewelry.com
- Instagram: diamentjewelry
- Facebook: diamentjewelry
