“You don’t have any experience in making jewelry or running a business… What are you thinking?” This was my husband’s reaction when I told him I was inspired to create a business using gemstones from a booth I bought from at the Antique Roadshow. I had no tangible proof that I could start or maintain a business. Even worse, I had absolutely no idea where to start. I had zero strategy or skill set. I did have a heavy dose of delusional confidence. I believed in myself enough to learn whichever skills were necessary by trial and error. This was the birth of Coudron’s Curiosities. 

The day after purchasing the gemstones, I went to Hobby Lobby (craft store) and bought a book on wire wrapping and many different types of wire. I 100% believed I could develop this skill set if I put in enough work. I’ll tell you, I threw my micro pieces at the wall multiple times and screamed at the ceiling! What did I get myself into? But I refused to give up. Eventually, I’d collect my piece and continue with blisters on my fingers. After at least 40 damaged pieces, my first client bought a pair of my earrings. I was elated. I made something with my two hands and someone loved it so much they were willing to exchange money for it! My body was filled with pure bliss! At that moment, I fell in love with entrepreneurship. This experience was wrapped up in pink fluffy boa feathers. Definitely, it didn’t reflect all sides of being a business owner. Still, it sits as my foundation for becoming an entrepreneur. The creativity, expression, innovation, and freedom within this experience still drive my continued journey. 

At this moment, I am walking into year seven of being the creator behind Coudron’s Curiosities. What started as a wire wrapping business has evolved into a hand-painted jewelry business. I’ve now sold over 1000 pieces both online and in person. I have expanded into the international market and shipped to fifteen countries worldwide! My “delusional” confidence made me into the entrepreneur I am today. 

I jumped before I was ready. I literally plopped myself in the middle of the ocean with no ability to swim. I learned everything I know now along the way. It was damn hard filled with days and nights of frustration and tears, but it was worth it. I stand tall and proud that I built every detail of my business from scratch without a supportive environment surrounding me. I became the hero of my own story. Now, 7 years on I have launched two additional companies and a podcast. Don’t ever let anyone tell you what you are capable of achieving. 

Are you standing on the edge of a significant opportunity? Is fear keeping you from playing the game? Are you waiting until you have JUST one more training? I’m instilling in you the confidence to jump! YOU are capable! YOU are deserving! YOU are innovative! You are solution-focused! YOU will find a way! YOUR voice deserves to be heard and YOUR story to be told! 

Now go out and CHANGE the world! 

While you are at discover the shop that changed mine! 

www.etsy.com/shop/coudronscuriosities 

Jump before you are ready! 

Rachel Coudron