Katy Vallentine Collection
I did this shoot with collaborators Emmajanenation, Katy Valentine and Rosa Karoo about a year ago, but never got the chance to properly hero some of these pretty shots. Today I’d like to introduce you to jewellery brand Katy Valentine Collection. I loved wearing her pieces, especially the round necklace, and that’s why we’re doing a little giveaway on Friday! Keep an eye on my Instagram account for more details. Below is an interview I did with Katy, to find out more about her brand, design and business journey.
Tell us a bit more about the inspiration behind your brand and jewellery.
I grew up in a home surrounded by organic design, with both parents being artefact traders, collectors and avid adventures. This is where my passion for creative design stemmed from.
What made your decide to start this business?
During an adventurous trip though India, I found myself drawn to the incredible craftsmanship of the local jewellers. The combination of my African heritage and my love for travel has merged to create “Katy Valentine Collection”. I started my business two and a half years ago, when I realised there was a gap in the market for reasonably priced, simplistic, modern and easy to wear African / Oriental inspired jewellery. I first began by creating a few unique pieces for myself, and after arriving back in South Africa from India, I sort of just kept going. The business evolved very organically from that trip.
Who is your Katy Valentine girl? Who loves your pieces?
The ultimate Katy Valentine girl is exited by rare finds, she’s free spirited a bit boho and isn’t afraid to express herself.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
I do what I love, which includes design, travel, exploring and having the opportunity to meet new and interesting people.
What are the 3 greatest attributes that you need to be a happy and successful freelance designer?
Creativity, patience and honesty.
What has been your greatest struggle as a freelancer so far?
Working alone comes with real challenges. It can get lonely if there isn’t someone to share and bounce ideas with. Sometimes it takes a lot of discipline and self-motivation to get the boring day-to-day things done. I’ve been fortunate to have the support of family and friends, but ultimately, getting things done and making my business a success is up to me.
It can also be difficult coming up with new ideas for my brand. It’s important to stay fresh and exciting as a brand, so I’m constantly on the lookout for new designs in everything around me.
Do you have any advice for people out there that would like to launch their own creative business.
The biggest lesson I’ve learnt is that it’s so important to run your business properly from the start. I have not been so good at running the accounts side of things and now that I have everything in order it relieves a lot pressure. So find a good accountant and be on top of the processes and details of your business right from the start.
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