Follow your heart!
Dare something new takes courage and a willingness to take risks. I was in my late 30s, had studied business and media management, and had already worked successfully and enjoyably in marketing on the publishing side for several years. Everything was actually going great. So why leave the career path I was on?
Because there was a great longing in me to work creatively - not only with my head, but also with my hands. To suddenly start my own business as a designer of jewelry and leather accessories was absolutely crazy - new professional territory for me, just like self-employment.
But I was determined and designed bags and leather accessories - first at home and later in collaboration with a Berlin leather manufactory: from prototypes to small series. I developed patterns, even though I had never learned how to do so, studied materials, visited trade fairs in Germany and abroad, looked for suitable suppliers, immersed myself in embroidery software and created embroidery designs.
At the same time, I honed my jewelry ideas. I wanted to get better as a hobby goldsmith, attended courses and finally rented a workbench in her studio from a goldsmith in Hamburg.
I developed the logo and brand identity with a graphic designer. My web designer helped me to set up the online store. At that time, there was no professional store software on the market. Everything had to be laboriously programmed. And I had to constantly improvise. I didn't have the money for a great photographer and copywriter. So in addition to product design and production, I also had to take care of copywriting and photography and market my collection with editorial PR, newsletter marketing and stationary sales.
It was an exciting and great time. A time of new beginnings and creativity and many late nights. A time with many inspiring encounters with people who have accompanied and supported me on my journey. One of the best decisions of my life!
However, I couldn't make a living from selling my little treasures, as it turned out at some point. And suddenly turning my hobby into a commercial one also took away its playfulness and lightness.
I therefore took up my work as a marketing and communications expert again - however, under completely new conditions that still allow me to live out my creative side today. I really enjoy the combination of brain work and craftsmanship, because it not only challenges me intellectually, but also gives me room for creative development.
Looking back, I can only say that even though I didn't turn my hobby into a career, I have now made room for my creative passion alongside my professional work - at a professional level that I would never have achieved without my time as a self-employed person.
It hasn't made me rich with my hobby, but it has definitely made me happier!
