Meet Christina Francois | Staple Jewels CEO

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

Hi Christina, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The first thought that came to mind was “Can I really do this?” My older siblings have their own businesses and have successfully managed to generate multiple streams of income despite the difficulties life has thrown their way. Growing up, my loved ones pointed out little niches that I could turn into a hobby. However, I personally didn’t believe I could turn any of them into an actual business. I was scared at first; Quite frankly, I still get a little scared when I think of the future of my business and how far it can go. But that nervousness is also what keeps me pushing to see what I’m capable of accomplishing and also to see what the future holds in store for my me and my brand.

What should our readers know about your business?
I was inspired to start my business right at the peak of the Covid-19 Pandemic in April of 2020, during a global shutdown. It was a scary time and I had just gotten furloughed from my job. While being stuck at home, I began to research different ways to start a business (considering it was something I had thought about since before I graduated high school). I already had an idea of what I wanted my business to be centered on, so I finally decided to take my idea and run with it. The start up process wasn’t easy for me only because, at the time, I didn’t really know how to go about actually starting the business. No one around me had a business accept my sister and she gained her clientele more through word of mouth. My business was going in a different route, whereas, I had to figure out inventory and where I was going to get it from; A website and how I was going to obtain it; A target audience and figuring out what demographic I wanted to reach. At the time, I couldn’t afford to pay someone to make a website for me. The number one tip my sister gave me was to write everything down, so I did. I grabbed a random blank notebook and pen, and google and YouTube became my best friends. Within two months, I came up with my business name, registered myself as a sole proprietor, and found a vendor I can order my jewelry samples from. Staple Jewels was launched February 1, 2021. Fast forward 2 years later, I have expanded my business from jewelry and added skincare. Body butters by Staple Jewels was launched April of 2022 and I’ve loved every bit of the process. For those of you that want to start a business and don’t know where to start, grab a journal and pen or pencil, go on YouTube, and look up anything that has to do with the kind of business you want to start up. From there, the information will start pouring in. Don’t let yourself get in the way of your success. I say that because, for me, I doubted myself a lot and I let my fear of failure and my low self esteem stop me from starting a business that I wish I started years ago. To this day, I still have to remind myself that this is what I’m meant to be doing and that I’m doing a great job even though sometimes I feel like I’m failing. I love what I do and the joy that comes from happy customers and seeing them wear my jewelry and use my skincare products is an indescribable feeling. The Staple Jewels motto is: Inspire, Strive, Conquer. I chose those words because I have always struggled to find my voice. I feel like Staple Jewels has helped me to overcome my fear of putting myself out there. The motto has become a foundation not only for Staple Jewels, but that introduces the boldness I’ve always wanted to have so that I can make an impact in the world.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First Place I’d bring my best friend to is Just Spoons Cafe in Plantation. Their French Toast is a must have when visiting. I’d also take her to any of the Miami museums. I act just like a tourist so I’d bring her to Bayside down south where we can relax for drinks. I’d also bring her to view the Miami art district just to take scenic pictures and window shop. Victory Lounge is a great spot to go to, for brunch and for dinner. Anytime of the day you go over there, you won’t be disappointed. I’d also take her to Aventura mall. It’s the most popular mall in Miami, if we don’t go we’d be doing ourselves a disservice. I’d end the week by bringing her to the 4D Imax theater in Dania Beach. If anyone comes down to Miami, I highly suggest experiencing a 4D theater just for the experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give a special shout out to my older sister, Wedney (pronounced like Whitney) for being a business role model in my life. She has managed to start several businesses all while being a super mom of two, continuing her education, and was working a 9-5 all at the same time. She now works for herself full time and she is one of the most persistent and tenacious individuals I know! Her drive to create a better life for her and her loved ones is what keeps me motivated to stay on my toes and push forward despite the challenges that come my way. My dad, my older brother Peterson, my godmom, and my cousin Rickell are also apart of my support army that pushes me to follow my dreams and to never give up on myself. They all help me to see the potential I have and where it can take me.

Website: https://www.staplejewels.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/officialstaplejewels?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/staple.jewels.58

Image Credits
Christina Francois Wedney Jean