As a high school student running a clothing and jewelry business, senior Rosie Do believes the most enjoyable aspect is seeing people from school and around the world wear her products, she
said. Upcycled by Do is Do’s self-run business where she sells handmade jewelry and clothes on Instagram and Depop, she said. A major benefit of running a business as a student is being able to produce items at your own pace, she added. “I buy jewelry and then I reuse the beads, and I also buy pieces of clothing that I like the fabric of and use that to make other products,” Do said.
Do began making scrunchies as gifts for her family in eighth grade, she said. Her sister and mom inspired her after they suggested that she create and sell other products, she added.
“I don’t know if I would choose it as a career, but I would definitely continue doing it on the side in addition to whatever job I have,” Do said.
Senior Angel Coleman owns a business on Instagram called “Jewels by Fae,” where she sells handmade crystal jewelry, she said. Coleman was inspired during the COVID-19 pandemic to make a positive impact during a time of struggle, she added. “When I first opened my business, I was nervous because I was afraid nobody was going to buy from me,” Coleman said. “But as time went by, I started expanding.”
Because Coleman runs her business alone, the most challenging aspect is balancing school, work, and making jewelry, she said. “I usually have to assemble my bracelets and necklaces, and I also have to wire wrap everything myself,” Coleman said. “I decide on my designs based on what’s trending at the moment, and I get my inspiration from Pinterest.”
Coleman’s jewelry business is a hobby and job, and she hopes to continue building the business in
the future, she said. “Don’t be afraid to start (your own business) even if you think no one’s going to buy from you,” Coleman said. “Just keep going. It’ll build over time.”
Senior Arnnel Zara created “Zoan Out,” his apparel business,
the summer before his junior year of high school, he said. Zara starts his process by sketching designs
nearly every day then finding the proper materials, he added. Executing the product he has in mind is the hardest part, he added. “Usually, I try to find a bunch of crazy approaches—something similar to Balenciaga or Vermont,” Zara said. “But also, it helps to take inspiration from skate culture and surf culture.”
Zara’s interest in fashion began in second grade, but only became serious during sophomore year,
he said. “People were pretty excited” when Zoan Out was launched, Zara said. “But I also had some
people putting me down for starting the brand because they didn’t like the designs at first and didn’t really understand it until I started posting more about it.”
Zara handled the initial negative feedback from his peers by reaching out to individuals who weren’t well-acquainted with him, who then became his primary supporters, he said.
“Do it for your heart, honestly,” Zara said. “If you’re doing it for the money or to impress people, you’re not going to make much out of it.”