I read an article about Angelina Jolie and her many tattoos. She once had a window tattooed on her lower back; She said that wherever she was she looked out of the window seeking something.
Between being a mother and a homemaker, the dreamer in me always wanted to do something of my own. Mother of a restless 2 year old I wanted to stay home to nurture my child and help him grow, yet have a professional life. So when a friend while admiring my jewelry collection casually suggested that I should open an accessory store, I seized the idea. That’s how Pandora’s Box was formed. I deal in fashion accessories (neckpieces, earrings, cuffs and rings), with shipping across India. The strategy is to be the best at few things than to diverse and get lost.
When I decided to take this up, many people questioned the choice. Why should a MBA finance with years of corporate experience, do something as small as selling accessories. “Think of something bigger” they would say. But I believed that my passion for fashion and accessories would drive me to work hard to create a successful business. To all my friends on this platform I would say never let anyone define the size of your dreams. There is no right or best dream; your personality, interests, desire and circumstances define your dream.
The initial journey to establish was rather difficult. Often it was tough managing home, vendors, packaging, courier services and clients.
But being married to your best friend has its benefits. My husband pushed me to strive for more. My friends and family boosted my confidence by being my first clients. Since word of mouth is the best form of advertising, we always ensured quality whether the product was priced at a hundred or in thousands. Slowly the business grew with positive feedback and customer retention. I discovered many vendors who are mom-entrepreneurs themselves and very skilled craftsmen. Apart from other suppliers, Pandora’s Box works with 12 mom-entrepreneurs across India who make these beautiful designs come true with their handmade jewelry.
Within five months of presence on Facebook we reached a large audience and today we are a growing family of over 15000. The beauty of being on a social platform is the extent of reach. Globalization has made the world such a small place, that today Pandora’s Box has clients abroad and plans to start international shipping shortly. My business have taught me to keep learning, just like I learn about my little boy everyday. I discover life as a new mom and a mom-entrepreneur at the same time. I still have days when the road ahead seems impossible but as every mom I have the instinct to try and look beyond.
Life is about inspiring and living. Stories often serve to be the most powerful medium. I wish all mothers to live their dream and share their story to inspire their children to follow their own dreams.
— Sonia Sarogi Gautum —