Today we’d like to introduce you to Stella Sabina Channa.
Hi Stella Sabina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I was born and raised in the Republic of Moldova, a place filled with rich culture and history. My journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Cluj-Napoca, Romania, which instilled a deep understanding of human behavior and motivations. However, my passion for finance led me to pursue a Master’s Degree in International Finance at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, opening up new horizons. My entrepreneurial spirit eventually led me to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where I decided to carve my path. But it wasn’t until I embarked on a unique adventure at the Zoom Academy in Montreal, Canada, that I discovered my true love for fashion. There, I met incredible individuals who ignited my fascination with the fashion world. Fueled by this newfound passion, I teamed up with my brother to establish Icetime Luxe, which brought me closer to the global designer brands I had always admired. Through this endeavor, new pathways began to emerge, and I watched as dreams turned into reality. As I delved deeper into the world of luxury, I realized the need for a publication that celebrated it in all its glory. In 2022, I became Editor-in-Chief for Luxury District Magazine, a yearly publication that has become a testament to my dedication to the world of luxury. It’s a platform where I can share my passion with others, showcasing the finest in fashion, jewelry, and lifestyle and portraying local artists and professionals who inspire me and, hopefully, my readers. But my interests continue. I am also proud to be a co-owner of Ocean Jewels, a local fine jewelry shop. Here, I work alongside my husband, combining our expertise to offer exquisite jewelry to our customers. I am honored to hold a GIA certification as a jeweler, a testament to my dedication to the craft. My journey from Moldova to Myrtle Beach, from psychology to international finance, and from fashion to jewelry has been remarkable. Each experience has shaped me into the person I am today, driven by a relentless passion for the finer things in life and a commitment to sharing that passion with the world.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has been far from a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs and individuals pursuing their passions, I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges and struggles.
- Starting a Business: Founding Icetime Luxe with my brother and Ocean Jewels with my husband was exciting but daunting. Building a successful business from scratch involves numerous challenges, from securing funding to navigating the complexities of the fashion industry and fine jewelry.
- Fashion Industry: The fashion world can be highly competitive and ever-changing. Staying ahead of trends and establishing a presence in the industry required dedication and a continuous learning process.
- The Luxury District Magazine: Launching and managing a publication like Luxury District Magazine came with challenges. From content creation to distribution, there were logistical hurdles to overcome.
- Ocean Jewels: Operating a fine jewelry shop in a local market posed its challenges, including market fluctuations and the need to maintain a high level of craftsmanship and customer service.
- Balancing Work and Personal Life: Being involved in multiple businesses while pursuing a career in jewelry and working alongside my husband demanded careful time management and dedication.
- Certification: Earning my GIA certification as a jeweler requires rigorous study and exams, which can be stressful.
These challenges taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of a strong support network. While there have been hurdles, they have only made the journey more rewarding and contributed to my personal and professional growth. Every obstacle has been an opportunity to learn and evolve, and I continue to embrace the journey with enthusiasm and determination.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Icetime Luxe is not just a boutique; it’s a haven for luxury fashion enthusiasts, and it’s been a remarkable journey since we established ourselves in 2021. With Icetime Luxe, we brought innovation to Myrtle Beach by introducing high-end designer brands in this market. Our customers are also in awe to find us and our products, which one will generally find only in the big cities. Nestled in the heart of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, we take pride in being the only boutique in the state, offering a unique shopping experience. Our boutique is a curation of the latest designer styles that exemplify luxury and sophistication. From iconic brands like Dolce and Gabbana, Versace, OFF White, Balenciaga, Amiri, and many more, we showcase an impressive and extensive collection of renowned labels catering to our clientele’s discerning tastes. While specializing in menswear, we’ve expanded our horizons and creativity. At the close of 2023, we unveiled our latest masterpiece, the “Sartorial Men” collection. This collection is the epitome of luxury, boasting incredible patterns and materials that redefine tailored suits for the modern gentleman. But our commitment doesn’t end with fashion. We are dedicated to sustainability and making a positive impact on our environment. In partnership with One Tree Planted, we contribute to reforestation efforts, planting trees where they are needed most and playing our part in lowering CO2 emissions.
In 2022, we ventured into the media world and launched our fashion publication, “The Luxury District Magazine.” This publication reflects our passion for fashion, lifestyle, art, beauty, and the incredible people who shape these industries. It’s a platform where we share the latest trends, stories, and inspirations from the world of luxury. Our website is a treasure trove of information for those who want to explore more of what we have to offer. It provides a glimpse into our exquisite collections, our commitment to sustainability, and the world of luxury, as seen through the lens of “The Luxury District Magazine.” At Icetime Luxe, we are more than just a boutique; we are a destination where luxury meets innovation, style meets sustainability, and fashion is a journey of exploration and inspiration. Join us and experience a world of elegance like no other. www.icetimeluxe.com
The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you, and any essential lessons or epiphanies you can share?
Adaptability: The pandemic taught us the importance of adaptability. Businesses had to quickly pivot their operations to survive, whether by transitioning to remote work, offering online services, or adjusting their products and services to meet changing consumer needs.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.icetimeluxe.com
- Instagram: stella.sabina.channa
Image Credits
ICETIME LUXE
