Sydney Miller Shares Her Journey to Founding a Permanent Jewelry Business

Hi, Sydney! Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:

Hi, I'm Sydney. As an avid traveler, I love to get mementos from everywhere I go and jewelry has always been a favorite. The issue I would face with my jewelry was that it would tangle, tarnish or easily break. After returning home from a trip to Costa Rica, I was determined to find jewelry that would fit and withstand my travels. This is when I learned about the concept of permanent jewelry, the process of using high quality chains that are custom fit, personalized with charms and connectors and then “Zapped” on — making the jewelry permanent! Allowing you to never have to worry about taking it on or off, because the jump ring closure is welded together.

This is what sparked the Nomadic Jeweler in late 2022. We are entirely pop-up based, allowing us to build relationships with our brick-and-mortar partners and private event hosts. We have worked with over 100 businesses including retailers, wineries, cafes, festivals, and more to bring a unique permanent jewelry experience to their customers. Our private events are popular for girls nights, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, weddings, and corporate events, allowing us to bring a memorable and bonding experience for their guests.

Our newest division of the Nomadic Jeweler is our licensing department. We are partnering with hotels, resorts and those in hospitality to bring them everything they need to curate a one-of-a-kind permanent jewelry experience for their guests. Through our licensing, we are able to provide everything needed from the displays, custom chain collection sourcing, welding training, marketing materials to continued customer service. 

Who are your customers?

Our licensee partners are those within the hospitality industry that are looking to provide their guests with a unique and high-end experience. Allowing each guest to create their own personal keepsake that will serve as a constant reminder of their time at the location. 

Permanent jewelry is seen as a symbol of connection, those who purchase it enjoy the process of creating a custom accessory that represents their travels, relationships or memories. Seeking something more meaningful than regular jewelry, focusing on experiences and long-term wearability that aligns with their lifestyle and values.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

My dream since I can remember was to work in fashion. While I was attending the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, I moved to New York City for my internship at Kleinfeld Bridal (from the “Say Yes To The Dress” show!). After graduating with a degree in Consumer Apparel and Retail Studies, I made the move back to New York City and began my career at Bonobos within their wholesale department. This is where I started to learn about brand and retailer partnerships. 

My career took a new directory when I accepted an opportunity with Anheuser-Busch on their product gifting team. My focus turned to logistics, sourcing and operations and my new passion was found. I then took part in driving growth for other promotional products within PepsiCo and Spirit Sox USA. I enjoyed getting to make the magic happen behind the senses, but once positions were permanently remote, I started to get curious about starting my own business.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

After spending multiple years working remotely, it was time that I began looking for something I could do on the side that would allow me to interact with others in person again. I had also wanted a creative outlet, that I could brand myself and call my own. It just so happened that while I was thinking of “side businesses or jobs”, my personal desire for permanent jewelry came up. Once I learned about what permanent jewelry was, I knew it would solve all of my issues with jewelry and I wanted to be able to share it with others too! Starting my own permanent jewelry business meant that I would be able to do in-person events, create my own brand and most importantly set my own schedule.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

When I was young, I was always creating new businesses. Whether it was a lemonade stand, a nail salonm or a pet sitting service. At the time, I don’t think I realized I was setting the foundation of entrepreneurship. During college I had forgotten about my entrepreneurial dreams and was set on working for a large and well established fashion house. Later on, I started to question the corporate route and my desire to start a “side business” took over. When I first launched the Nomadic Jeweler, I didn’t see myself as an entrepreneur, but a hobbyist. Now as I look back, I know I was one all along.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way so far and what have you learned from it?

Growth in your business is exciting and while you are trying to keep up with demand, your team has to grow as well. We were focused on pop-up events and partnerships with business, as the demand for these events increased we had to increase the amount of event jewelers. It is challenging to find reliable and personable event pop-up jewelers who are willing to work on the weekends. We have found that creating a three step hiring process has allowed us to identify individuals who would be the best fit for the position.

What accomplishment are the most proud of to date in your business?

Since starting the Nomadic Jeweler, there are multiple accomplishments that I am most proud of. One of them being the ability to grow my “side hustle” to a full business and quitting my corporate job. Allowing myself the ability to focus on the Nomadic Jeweler full time, I have been able to plan larger growth for the company. This is being executed through our licensing division and allows us to extend our reach beyond the U.S.

What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

Permanent jewelry taps into the growing demand for unique and personalized guest experiences. We are continuing to focus on this demand by expanding our licensing partnerships across the U.S. and internationally. In addition to the new locations, you’ll also be able to find new chain designs and customizations as we continue expanding our manufacturer relationships.

What is one thing you wish you had known when you started your Entreprenista journey?

Since starting my Entreprenista journey, I have been surprised by how willing everyone in the group has been to help and support each other. Sending a direct message on the platform to someone who appears to be in an area where you are needing help, connection or feedback is a great place to start. If they are not able to help with your specific need, they are quick to refer a fellow entrepreneur who is!

What is your favorite business tool or solution and why?

Monday.com has been a business changing tool. We use both the CRM and Work Management tools to enable the most efficient cross functional communication and lead follow up. Having a clear view of what has been accomplished and what is remaining has allowed us to set goals and have a clear understanding of where each team member is on a task. The ability to comment and chat internally on the platform has been extremely helpful in approving projects and moving next steps.

What advice do you have for aspiring Entreprenistas?

My advice for aspiring Entreprenistas is to let the fear of the unknown make you curious and continue forward. Everyone starts with uncertainty of next steps and no one is an expert in everything. It is empowering to ask for help and guidance from others who are experts in their field. Fellow Entreprenistas want to see others succeed and will go the extra step to help you as well. Don’t be afraid to ask the question and ask twice if you don’t hear back the first time. Success is in the follow-ups.

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!