Michelle Sprackman is a first-year student at UWSA and founder of the Toronto-based jewelry brand – OKO. Michelle specializes in handmade bracelets and works closely with stores Ontario-wide including shopAGO, Cloakroom, Putti Fine Furnishings and The Art of Home, right here in Galt. Today, Michelle sits down with us to describe the origins of her business, her struggles and successes, and the entrepreneurial process in relation to architecture school.
Q: What is “OKO”?
A: OKO means eye – meaning designs inspired by what I see in the world around me. I specialize in textile-based jewelry, incorporating intricate new weaving techniques, colours and materials every season. I often use vintage and unique parts giving each piece a personalized flair. OKO is proudly Canadian, therefore everything is handmade in Canada.
Q: How did OKO start out?
A: Initially, OKO began as a fundraising initiative for the Terry Fox Foundation in the fall of 2010. For three consecutive years, I designed, made and sold these bracelets to students and faculty at my high school. During the rest of the year people began asking me about the bracelets, giving me commissions. This is where I first saw the potential for a jewelry business.
Q: What was it like starting a business at such a young age?
A: When I began selling to stores at fifteen years old, I was afraid of not being taken seriously. But, by persevering and developing my company on a more professional level, my product was well received. Today, at eighteen years old, my bracelets are being sold at stores Ontario-wide.
Q: As we all know, architecture school is extremely demanding. What is it like balancing a business and being a student?
A: Surprisingly, the demands of architecture school are quite similar to the lesson learned in starting and operating a business and have been very useful. Developing a business is quite similar to the creative process of our studio courses. Initially, both start with an idea that needs to be manifested and pursued from start to finish. It involves exploring a particular concept and developing layers of it until a solution is ultimately reached. Much like the final critique, if you prepare to a high standard and are passionate about your design, the panel (and customers) will know.
Q: Can you describe the back ends of running a business?
A: Like architecture, it is a creative and multi-faceted venture requiring skills that range from a technical to artistic. You have to consider communication, catering to a specific audience, collaborating with others and, the dreaded deadline. There’s the accounting end where I prepare invoices for stores and determine revenue. I also set and test different product prices until discovering an optimal number that will generate the most sales and remain profitable. And in the end, there needs to be a demand for the business – something that sets it aside from competing businesses.
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting up a new business?
A: Don’t take rejection personally! I once approached the same store three times before they accepted my brand. Starting a business has been an incredible learning experience and I encourage everyone to try it. There are many opportunities available for youth. For example, this past summer I participated in the Summer Company – a government-funded youth entrepreneurship program which provides you with a $1500 grant – yes, grant – which you do not have to pay back. They assist you by providing you with a mentor, workshops and great resources.
Q: Any last words?
A: Good luck to all entrepreneurs out there; you never know where a small idea may lead you!
*NOTE: There will be a draw at the end of April. Repost and tag a photo from the @OKODesigns Instagram account for a chance to win a three-bundle bracelet worth $75!
CONTACT:
E-MAIL / okocanada@gmail.com
FACEBOOK / www.facebook.com/OKOcanada
INSTAGRAM / @OKOdesigns
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