December 22, 2014

Fabienne Costa, Yourcorelight Jewels

Fashion & Accessories | Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

At a Glance

Fabienne owns Yourcorelight Jewels, a range of fine ethical crystal jewellery. Established in 2013.

Click to visit: Website | Online Shop | Blog | Instagram | Facebook

Bio The path that led her to this point

Three and a half years ago YCL began as a health and wellness blog, this was a great stepping stone for me as it allowed me to develop my brand and create an online community through blogging, guest posting and social media.

During this time I was in my 3rd year of a bachelor of nursing degree, in my 7th year working as a nurse (specialising in mental health and demential), and I was also making jewellery as a hobby.

As a creative person, I was partaking in a career that didn't necessarily 'fill my soul', but rather I was doing what I thought I had to do to fit into the societal norm, and this belief left me feeling stifled.

I had seen so many jewellers at markets and in small boutiques who were embarking on a business venture that aligned beautifully with what I wanted to.

However that voice within me always told me how I was unworthy of a job I loved and how I could never create a business of my own without any experience; but I decided not to list.

So I quit my degree, quit my job (it was quite a bold and decisive move) and begin the business that had filled my heart for many years.

My aim was to create jewellery that was contemporary and could be worn on the runways, but that also held intention and inspired the beholder to see the beauty within their souls.

A year and a half in, I now work full time for YCL.

We have an online store, as well as a shared retail space in Paddington, Brisbane.

Q&A Insider advice & tips

What's been your greatest achievement to date?

Receiving an email from Conde Nast in January of 2014 (6 months into my business), asking if I wanted to have our jewellery featured in their April issue of British Vogue.

Turns out YCL Jewels was featured in both the April & May issues; definitely a poignant moment of my career.

What's been your biggest challenge so far?

Quitting part-time work this year to focus 100% on YCL; however it was so worth it - authenticity breeds abundance.

Best lesson you've learned along the way?

Try not to base decisions you make on what you think you 'should' do, or what seems logical.

Quitting my high-paying job (whilst trying to building a home), and throwing myself into the business definitely wasn't logical, but in my heart it felt right and it turns out - was profitable in ways unimaginable for myself and business.

A website, book or resource that has helped you in your business or inspired you and why?

Talking to and forming relationships with other creative entrepreneurs, and small business owners.

The inspiration, support and innovation I gather from collaborating with like-minded people is incredible and very moving.

Which person or brand do you most admire and why?

Catherine Roberts, from The Spring Shop & Showroom Brisbane floods my mind with potential, ideas and wisdom.

What advice would you give someone starting an independent business in your industry?

All you need is to begin, it doesn't have to be perfect, it just has to have had started.

With one small step everyday, and with love and determination in your heart, your dreams will grow into something you only believed of in your dreams...