By: Katelyn Weddle
Since quarantine first started many students have used this time as an opportunity to start a small business. Alyssa Cantu, ‘21 was just one of these students.
Cantu started her stamped jewelry business, “Heaven Valley Jewelry” in February of this year. The jewelry consists of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and key chains which can then be stamped with the message of the customer’s choosing. The stamps come in a variety of letters, symbols, and numbers.
When asked about the inspiration behind it, Cantu says, “I started this business because I like jewelry a lot, but I didn’t like what stores had; I decided to make my own and sell them.” Cantu adds that it would be nice to make a little extra cash.
To make these custom jewelry pieces, Cantu first lays out all of her materials. Her tools consist of metal stamps, a hammer, and the blank to stamp. Cantu shares, “It was super hard at first, but after awhile, I got used to it. However, the most difficult part is the spacing on the jewelry.” She finishes her product by adding the stamped metal piece onto a chain or earring hooks, and neatly packages it.
Considering her business is fairly new, Cantu does not have many specific goals for her business at the moment. She states, “Jewelry is not my future goal, but I plan on taking the information I learn about running a small business with me in college, while choosing my life path.”
Cantu ends by giving a piece of advice to anyone wanting to start a business, or anyone who already has a business: “Be patient and listen to customer feedback.”
You can check out her shop at @heavenvalleyjewelry on Instagram.
Tags: alyssa cantu, clubs & lifestyles, jewelry, katelyn weddle, redwood gigantea, redwood high school, small business