We had the good fortune of connecting with Azari Alexander and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Azari, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process began my junior year in high school in search of creating a business. Being the oldest daughter of two successful entrepreneurs further confirmed that I harbored a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Grady High School offered students a series of academic pathways to complete in retrospect to students’ interests before graduation. I acquired to complete the business pathway where I composed my first sample jewelry marketing plan. I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue designing jewelry in the midst of being a high school student, but my mother became one of my first investors. She prompted me to sought out an entrepreneurial endeavor. ‘Embracelets’ was established the following summer after graduation in 2016. My business’s first mock products were sold to women and now to women, men, children, and infants. Subsequently, it became a balancing act with additional services for jewelry and resizing repairs. Last year, ‘Embracelets’ changed its name to ‘Z Gem Collection’ honoring its product line extension and rebrand.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Navigating through my artist and the creative side wasn’t easy; I had to find my niche. When I began designing jewelry it became therapeutic. After spending a year trying to elevate my brand, it made me more excited to reach new milestones. I began outsourcing different products, referenced more designs, and optimized color coordination. I learned that it takes money to make money, hence, in due time, it will incur a profit.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to visit me in Atlanta, I would take them to a winery resort called Chateau Elan. It’s located in Braselton, Georgia built on 3,500 acres. The winery resort includes a list of activities and restaurants to choose from as well as a complimentary wine tasting during your stay. Chateau Elan is the perfect week getaway to escape the Atlanta city life.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shoutout to my auntie, Dana Roberts, for referring me. I’m excited to be a part of this amazing opportunity.

Website: zgemcollection.com

Instagram: instagram.com/zgemcollection

Twitter: twitter.com/zgemcollection

Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCWl3-fwOx29WtdZCll1s8GQ

Image Credits
Not applicable.

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