Peace Beautifuls, for those who’ve been with me since the beginning. You know it has been a while since I’ve presented a Small Business Spotlight Feature. I’m super excited to start up my features again. First on the list is a lovely accessory company called “Trinket World Fashions” The owner/ artist/designer is Metrell Gamble. She was so kind to reach out to me.
“Hi Jackie ! It’s Metrell. Thank you so much for agreeing to feature Trinket World Fashions. I have been designing accessories for over 5 years. My original Black Diamond Cut Chains were featured in the first Sista Owned Haul by Toni Daley in 2011. At that time I sold on Etsy but now feature items on my own website, http:/trinketworldfashions.com/
Each piece is handmade. I work hard to ensure that my items of the best quality and design.
My social links are located on my website. New releases are always featured first on Instagram @metrellwebb. I offer flat rate shipping and this month through June 30, 2016 customers can enter coupon code SUMMER to receive 50% their entire order!”
I was so surprised when she reached out to me. I asked her would she mind doing a Q&A…she was more than happy to share a lil more of herself by answering the questions below:
Q. What is your name and where are you from?
My name is Metrell Gamble. I was born in Atlanta, Georgia. I currently live in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
Q. Can you tell us a little about your company (name, what you offer, when established, etc)?
My business is Trinket World Fashions. I create unique handmade jewelry and fashion accessories. I began designing and selling accessories in 2011 on Etsy as well as vending in my local area. This year I launched my new website trinketworldfashions.com.
Q. What was your inspiration behind starting the brand and for each design?
I have always been very interested in African and Afrocentric culture. Those two are at the center of my inspiration and it goes from there.
Q. What distinguishes your product from other brands?
I personally design and create each piece that you see on my site. I make an effort to express culture in a way that compliments diversity in personal style preference.
Q. What challenges have you faced with starting the line?
The biggest challenges that I have faced were getting out of my own way and not second guessing myself. Often times you can talk yourself out of going with your gut. I had to learn to trust my own instincts.
Q. What personal goals would you like to accomplish with your business?
I would like to grow my line of products and reach a broader audience. I would like for Trinket World Fashions to be a go to spot for cultural statement accessories. I’m always excited to introduce new fashion jewelry items, and will be doing that, but I’m especially excited about some other fashion items that I will be released in the near future. So be on the look out for that!
Q. Do you have any advice that you would offer to an aspiring entrepreneur?
Yes!
Start small and allow your business to pay for it’s own expenses. Begin with the understanding that it takes time to grow any business. You wouldn’t expect your newborn to go to work and pay your bills so…take care of your business like it’s your baby, so to speak. With the proper focus and attention it will begin to expand.
Q. And finally, how do we get our hands on your custom designs?
I offer a first look at new releases on Instagram, @metrellgamble, and run exciting promotions and a contest every month. For example this month, June 2016, their is a 50% OFF Coupon Code offering 50% OFF an entire order. Next month I will run a different promotion. You can shop my designs at http://trinketworldfashions.com
Also I know you are also a fellow Naturlista! Why did you decide to go natural?
It’s kind of funny, I actually didn’t mean to go natural, lol. I discovered YouTube in 2010. I don’t even remember what I was watching but I saw a thumbnail of a girl with natural hair and clicked on it. It was Pretty Dimples. I watched and watched her videos for what seemed like hours. That night, at the end of her ‘wash and go’ video, my weave was on the floor at my feet. I didn’t even realize I had taken it all down. I was in awe of her hair and mine!
Q. How long have you been natural? Did you transition or did you big chop?
I have not relaxed since 2009. I can’t say that I experienced transitioning because I didn’t know my natural hair. I wore weaves and stopped relaxing prior to learning how awesome our hair is. Eventually I did big chop though…. twice.
Q. What has been the most rewarding part of your natural hair journey?
The most rewarding part of my natural hair journey was realizing that, when properly cared for, our hair is so lush and beautiful.
Q. Has anything been a challenge on your journey?
The initial challenge for me was leaving my hair alone. The most recent challenge is that I rarely wear it out at all. It’s a personal choice for anyone but I think it’s a good idea to flaunt that plush natural a bit while you’ve still got it!
I was only expecting one pair but she actually sent me two!!! The first pair is the “White Feather” earrings : These earrings are so beautiful. They scream peace and tranquility. Perfect for an All White Affair or just a casual day out. The second pair were the “Rasta” earrings: are even more stunning in person. These are just a few of her hand made creations. Go to http://www.trinketworldfashions.com and see all she has to offer…Thank you Metrell
ImJustJackie 