Ever dream of having your own business, but not knowing where to start? Or maybe you have a passion for jewelry, but don’t have the means to manufacture it. Well, like Samantha Douma, you could become a merchandiser for an amazing jewelry business called Chloe + Isabel. In our interview, Samantha explains what being a merchandiser entails, and what are some of the awesome perks of holding this rewarding job.
Hometown? Richmond, VA
Year? Freshman
Major? Fashion Design with a minor in Menswear
What is Chloe+ Isabel?
Chloe + Isabel is a jewelry company that began last year and sells unique jewelry through Merchandisers. The name of the brand comes from the idea of two friends with two different styles- “Chloe” stands for the fashion-loving trendsetter, while “Isabel” loves the classic and refined. As our website says, “Chloe + Isabel is revolutionizing the way people view direct sales. Our mission is to provide fashion-loving entrepreneurs with an opportunity to make money in a fun and flexible environment, while gaining valuable skills for their resume.”
Describe your job as a merchandiser for Chloe+ Isabel:
As a merchandiser I advertise and sell the Chloe + Isabel jewelry as part of my own business. They even have a campus program called the GEM program, for college girls. In this program we do exactly what all other merchandisers do, but with the support from our coordinators, Brenna and Mallorie, who help us think of ways that we can sell on a college campus.
How long have you been working for this company?
Since March 2014–not very long, but I have really loved it so far.
How did you find out about this opportunity?
Believe it or not Facebook! I saw an ad for it, and once I did a bit of research I just applied. I had been thinking about getting a part time job and it just seemed right.
What is the most rewarding part of being a merchandiser?
I think the most rewarding part has to be the fact that it is my own business. I’m in charge of making my sales and creating relationships with customers.
What are some of the challenges?
Being in college and trying to build a customer base. I know all too well that school, especially SCAD, doesn’t really leave you with extra spending money, so trying to market to my peers is a bit hard. It’s also been hard trying to host a pop-up show, since the dorm style living doesn’t really lend itself to hosting a jewelry party for my friends.
Has being a merchandiser influenced your future aspirations?
It has definitely made me realize how much I love having my own business, especially building relationships with customers. Going into fashion I have never been really motivated to have my own business because of the uncertainty of starting from nowhere, but I have realized that I really do like having a job that allows me to have personal relationships with my customers.
What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a merchandiser?
Go for it! I applied on a whim and I would never take it back. Although it’s not something that directly ties in with my major, I have been given a great opportunity and have and so much fun doing it! I mean what’s life without a little bit of blind faith and risk!
What is your favorite item of jewelry from Chloe+ Isabel?
That’s like choosing a favorite One Direction member! I love most of the pieces, but my favorite has to be the Scarab statement necklace (pictured on Sam). It is such a beautiful piece and I can wear it with a black dress or a white t-shirt. Plus it is a major conversation starter and allows me to tell people about my business.
Visit www.chloeandisabel.com/boutique/samanthadouma to check out all the gorgeous jewelry Chloe + Isabel has to offer!
To place an order, contact Sam on her Facebook page “Samantha Douma & Chloe + Isabel”, or go directly to her boutique site!