Spotlight on Mom -- Maryann Dolzani of I AM MARYANN

 

I love it when I can share Spotlight Moms from my neck of the woods.  And, this week, I get to introduce you to Maryann Dolzani, of I AM MARYANN.  Maryann creates handmade jewelry that inspires.  Just look at a few of her unique necklaces and charms --

Aren't these beautiful?  Maryann kindly sent me one to see up close and review, and I haven't taken it off since I received it.  I can't tell you how many compliments I get when people see the necklace. Many ask where I got it and how they can get one, while others point the necklace out to their spouses, and tell them they would really like one.  

Head back here on Friday, when I will share more about the handmade necklace Maryann created and sent to me, as well as offer a coupon code for 20% off your total order.  With the holidays right around the corner, now is the time to begin your holiday shopping, and buy a few pieces from I AM MARYANN.  But, in the meantime, please enjoy my Spotlight on Mommy interview with this amazing jewelry designer and mom entrepreneur, Maryann Dolzani.

Name:  Maryann Dolzani
Company Name/Product/Service: I AM MARYANN / Handmade jewelry that inspires.
Company Location: Fairfield, CT
Company Website: http://www.iammaryann.com
Facebook URL: http://www.facebook.com/iammaryanndesigns
Twitter Handle: @IAM_MARYANN
Age of Company: One year old (Founded June 2011)
Favorite Inspirational Quotes: "If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at will change" ~ Wayne Dyer
Favorite Book: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Tell us a little bit about yourself.  How many children do you have?  What are their ages? Your hobbies? Etc.
  
I have two curious boys; Elliot (10) and Spencer (8).  I enjoy reading and being creative ~ drawing, photography...

Briefly explain your business.  How did it come about?

As I kid I was always drawing and loved nothing more than to have a piece of paper and pencil. 

A couple years ago, I was in a bit of a funk and realized I needed to make some more time to be creative again. While I was in the creative space, I was listening to a song my husband wrote. It the lyrics he says..”I am broken... I am healing”. After listening several times, I kept writing down the words I AM. I realized that we all have these I AM statements. Some that hold us back and others that keep us present and move us forward. I envisioned a jewelry line that would inspire and remind us everyday of our own personal mantra. I AM MARYANN was born.

What is a typical work day like? 
 

I wake up and get the kids off to school. Once in the office/studio I do a variety of things. A day can consist of designing the pieces, shipping, marketing, strategy, interviews.

What has been a struggle while starting up your company? 
 

It’s so easy to get overwhelmed when creating a company/product/service...if feels so big and daunting. I found breaking it down into easy manageable pieces and doing something each day helped me move from idea, to creation of the line, to launch to the public.

What did you do in your past work life?

I spent many years in the media business in New York City.

What have been some of your major successes?

Featured on Good Morning America and being the runner up  (out of 250 designs) in UncommonGoods Jewelry Design competition.

The biggest success has really been hearing from customers. I get so many emails where people are sharing their story and what their mantra means to them. It is so much more than jewelry. If this piece reminds someone of their strength... That is success.

What have been some of your major challenges?

 Learning to scale the business and still keep the creative / handmade piece intact.

On those impossible days, what motivates you to keep going?
 

It’s the inspiration to others that keeps me motivated through the hard days. Hearing from someone who has cancer and how my jewelry has helped them, that’s what makes it all worth it.

What is your balancing secret in managing a business and family?

I have no secret. Some days it works smoother than others.

What is next for your business?

Develop more products within the line. And find ways to continue to reach more people and inspire.

Do you have any advice for other mom entrepreneurs that are starting out and struggling, or are on the fence about starting a business?

If you have an idea, passion, something that excites you ~ go for it.  Try not to get weighed down by how big and daunting it might be. Just get started. Getting the process started is sometimes the hardest part. Do one thing each day and it will add up.