Name: Peggy Li
Job Title and Description: Designer of Peggy Li Creations
College/Major: UC Berkeley/Bioresource Sciences
Website: http://www.peggyli.com
Twitter Handle: @plcpeggy
What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
Peggy Li: My current job is my handmade jewelry business, Peggy Li Creations. A typical day consists of answering emails, setting up social media for the day (love Tweetdeck and that you can schedule posts on Facebook finally) and filling orders! I am also usually busy working on new designs, PR follow-up and website updates. When you are a small business owner, you typically wear all the hats.
What is the best part of your job?
PL: Having creative freedom is the best part of my job! I get to work on things that I love working on, which is very satisfying. I see projects go from idea to execution to finish.
Why did you decide to create your own jewelry line?
PL: I love fashion and back when I couldn’t afford to buy jewelry, I started making my own. It sort of snowballed from there as people started stopping me on the street and asking me where I got my pieces.
What was the most challenging part about making the switch from a science industry to a more creative field?
PL: The most challenging part was getting over what my friends and family would think about the switch. I had been in love with science growing up (I still love it) and it felt like I was destined for that career. Luckily, there are many ways to express your passion, and I like to think I bring my science background to my work in through the design and my love for natural materials. I took my fear and used it to motivate me to carefully pursue my jewelry business. Of course I got my family’s support and many of my fears were unfounded, which means a lot.
What is one thing you wish you knew about your industry when you first started out that you know now?
PL: I wish I knew more about how important it is to create a signature look and define why I love making jewelry. I still struggle with this today, as I like to make what I want, when I want. I’ve spoiled myself in a way!
Who is one person who changed your professional life for the better?
PL: One day I was shopping in a fancy department store and a woman was having her jewelry trunk show there. I loved her pieces and got up the guts to talk to her and ask her some questions about her work. She very kindly pointed me in the direction of some suppliers (who I still use to this day), but it was her kindness and willingness to help that really gave me more courage to pursue my jewelry business.
What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?
PL: Early on in my business, I was too shy to tell people I had this business I was working on. I wish I had been more bold and had really capitalized on some of my early momentum. There was no reason to hold back! Plus, you never know when there is an opportunity, connection or help to be had unless you speak up and interact with people!
Have you had your “made it moment” (when you realized that you truly broke into the industry)? If so, what was it?
PL: A great moment was seeing my work on the TV show Buffy, the Vampire Slayer for the first time. This was before HD TV (I’m giving away my age) and I was squinting at the TV. It was a thrilling moment to see an actress and character I loved wearing something I had made with my own two hands.
What do you look for when considering hiring someone?
PL: When I make my first hire, I can tell you! I think I would look for someone who is creative, thoughtful and willing to work hard and roll with the punches.
What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?
PL: My advice is to really explore your aspirations! Talk to people in the industry you are interested in and try to immerse yourself in that world. Do your homework, be professional and try not to take rejection too personally.