We had the good fortune of connecting with Tiffany Joachim and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tiffany, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
Risk has been the backbone of every major decision I’ve made- both professionally and personally. I firmly believe you cannot grow without some level of risk. I took a huge risk leaving a comfortable job as Assistant Buyer at Neiman Marcus to move to NYC without a job, family or friends, because I believed I could grow and push my career in a more meaningful way than had I stayed in Texas- and, at many sacrifices and expenses, I did. Just when I thought I would never make a move as risky as that one, I did. I once again moved with no job (at least this time with my husband!), 8 months pregnant and started my own company. Similarly, I felt that I had grown and achieved as much as I would have wanted to within large corporations and believed that I could build something great on my own. I know that the life I have created for myself would not exist had I not taken the risks that I have.
Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Celeste Sol was inspired by my grandparent’s jewelry store in Puerto Rico and, more specifically, my grandmother Celeste who helped run it. My husband and I had the idea to breathe new life into a 60+ year old family business, with jewelry that embodied the spirit of my grandmother made modern and at an affordable price point. As the daughter of a Dominican immigrant, I knew I wanted to connect with a consumer that shared a similar background as myself- resonating with both traditional American culture, as well as Latin/Caribbean . The demographics of our country are changing fast and I wanted to create something that was a bridge between fashion and culture, giving back to the places and countries that we are inspired by. We are fully and wholly committed to the empowerment and support of women in and of Latin American and Caribbean countries. I am, and will always be, most proud that a portion of every sale goes to our charitable partners who share in our mission.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
You have to start with brunch at Yardbird on the beach- the fried chicken and bourbon lemonade is insane. I will say the spread at the brunch buffet at SoHo House is also very impressive (and they have live music on the weekends to boot). I personally think Key Biscayne as the best beach- a little bit of a drive but it is quite and beautiful with the canopy of palm trees. If you are into museums, the Perez Museum is not only beautiful but has also a wonderful restaurant with a view to check out after. As for nightlife, Pubbelly Sushi is our favorite and a quick walk around the block to Bay Club for a drink. For a fancy night out you can’t beat the Edition Hotel’s Matador Bar for a craft cocktail.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been abundantly blessed with the most supportive family and group of girlfriends (who are like family and most I’ve known for 20+ years!)- they never make me feel short of totally loved and supported for every crazy dream, move or endeavor I take on. I also cannot speak highly enough of the merchants who I was trained by and worked with at Ross Stores, and most especially a former boss who hired me there and recently lost his battle with cancer, they are undoubtedly the best in the industry. Lastly my husband who encourages me to reach for my highest self, think big, and pushes me outside of my comfort zone. He and our son fill me with love and make me a better person everyday.
Website: www.celestesol.com
Instagram: @celestesoljewelry
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/celestesoljewelry
Image Credits
Tamera Darden Garden of Eden Foundation Hogar Nueva Mujer