Today we’d like to introduce you to Mackenzie Barlow.
Hi Mackenzie, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
In 2020, I was a freshman at the University of Cincinnati, and due to the pandemic, I had to move back home to Columbus in early March. I started making earrings in May of 2020 when I was bored and stuck in quarantine. It quickly became a business when friends were replying to my social media posts wanting to buy them. I stayed consistent in making earrings and improving my process that whole summer. I watched countless YouTube videos and practiced until I mastered the art. Then in August, I moved back to Cincinnati for college and into my college house. I have been making earrings ever since but started taking it seriously about a year ago when I had my first Market in November of 2021. I live in a house with 11 other girls, and I currently run my entire business in a little room under our stairs, very much so Harry Potter vibes, and it is a blast! Over the past year, I have branched out and participated in several markets, including City Flea and The Work+Shop. I have gotten to meet so many amazing people both in Cincinnati and all over the state!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My main struggle has been finding a rhythm for making earrings in my college house. There isn’t much room here, so I often have to take over our living room when I’m creating. Luckily, I have amazing housemates who support me and give me so much grace when I’m creating and making a disaster of our home (they’re really the best). Also, balancing my business while being a full-time student at UC, having a part-time internship, and being a volunteer Young Life leader on the west side of Cincinnati takes a lot of time, time management, and energy. It is definitely not easy, but I love what I do though, and wouldn’t change it for the world.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am 21 years old, a senior at the University of Cincinnati, and a self-made entrepreneur. I sell Polymer Clay Earrings on Etsy and at local markets in Cincinnati. I make every single pair of earrings by hand, and I spend hours on each batch. My earrings are simple, yet fun, and are the perfect accent to spice up any outfit. Something that sets me apart from others is that I offer so many earrings, ranging from neutral and simple to colorful and patterned, so my customers also range in age and style. Everyone can find a pair they like and feel beautiful in. I have spent countless hours perfecting my process, and I am proud of how far my craftsmanship has come over the years. More recently I have been getting into expanding my brand with accessories by selling hair clips and key chains. I’m hoping to grow these offerings by having more colors available, and I have also just started making t-shirts. I had them for sale for the first time at The City Flea in October, and I am excited to expand with these products. To start out I have made a variety of Cincinnati-themed t-shirts, but I am excited to create more designs in the future!
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Since I started my business during COVID, I don’t know any different/what business was like pre-covid. However, I think now more than ever, social media presence is so important. I love the world of digital marketing and advertising, and learning more about social media platforms has been so fun for me. I love editing pictures, making Reels, and making TikToks to promote my brand.
Pricing:
- Dangles range from $17-$19
- Studs range from $6-$10
Contact Info:
- Website: etsy.com/shop/mackbmade
- Instagram: instagram.com/mackbmade
- Facebook: facebook.com/mackbmade
