The Community News catches up with Brandywine Hundred's newest entrepreneur.
Q) How did you get the idea for your new company, Destination Diva?
A) When I was looking for jewelry for my beach wedding and something fun for my bridesmaids, I had trouble finding what I was looking for. I was looking for something that was fun and nice but was not too expensive. I ended up buying my bridesmaids a Starfish necklace starfish and earrings and kept thinking to myself that I could have made them. When I got back from my wedding and settled into my new job, I decided to try to make some pieces and just kept going from there.
Q) What kind of jewelry do you design?
A) The bulk of my pieces are fun, colorful, unique necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. I have been focusing on beachy and colorful pieces, such as flower pendants, starfish, butterflies, since summer is here. I also have a bridal section for classic brides and destination brides. Recently, I have expanded into antique pieces. I enjoy going to flea markets and antique shops to look for unique pieces that I can work with. I have also been working on making my own beads, pendants and charms, so hopefully some of those pieces will be ready soon.
Q) The company is just weeks old. What has it been like starting a business?
|
Meet Adrienne Lenz Age: 28 Neighborhood: McDaniel Crest Company: Destination Diva Position: Founder Education: University of Delaware, Bachelors; University of Phoenix, MBA Family: Husband: Peter Hobbies: Making jewelry (of course), running, traveling On the Web: destinationdiva.biz |
A) It has been a learning experience. I have been able to get great advice from my dad, who owns his own business, and friends that own their own business. In the beginning, it was a lot of research and time getting up and running, but was definitely worth it.
Q) What are your goals for the company? Where do you see yourself in five years?
A) My goal is to continue to expand my business and remain creative and unique. I have applied to be in a few jewelry/art shows this year and hope to be in even more next year. I also would like to eventually have some stores sell my jewelry or maybe even open up my own store down the road.
Q) You're an entrepreneur, work a full-time job and are a newlywed. What is your single biggest day-to-day challenge?
A) Finding time to actually make jewelry and network has been a challenge. I have very little time during the week to get anything done, so I try to utilize any chance I get. I have always been a good multi-tasker, so I try to network or work on my website while I am watching TV with my husband. This past weekend my sister and I went to the beach and had a great time looking around antique shops for new pendants, so the business end of things can always been made into some fun. I have had a lot of help from family and friends, so I definitely have to thank them for keeping me sane.
