In the Spotlight: Maryniky Designs

Tell us a little about the person behind the business? My name is Maryanne and I’m 42 yrs young. I’m a cranky mum to three beautiful ones (well that’s what they tell me I am LOL), and wife to one very abiding man. We live in the beautiful coastal town of Mackay, on the Central Coast of Queenland. It’s a very scenic area, and I draw so much inspiration from the ocean, the reef and the rainforests around us.

And now a little about the business itself? The business side of things only really began about two years ago, but my passion for Jewellery design started over four years ago when I did a couple of beginner classes at our local craft store. It ignited something in me that I hadn’t felt in a long time. Eventually the passion grew and the collection of Jewellery grew with it. The only logical thing to do was to start selling them. Hence, Maryniky Designs was born.

How did you come up with your business name? Maryniky Designs is a combination of the first two letters of myself and the three kids names. It seemed like a good idea at the time

What made you want to begin a WAH business and how did you get started? As with any WAH business, I have three children. I still like being there and picking the kids up in the afternoon, and having a business that I can do in those “quiet” school hours is ideal. When I’m not making Jewellery, I’m a relief Teacher’s Aide.

The business side of things started at our local markets that are held once a month. It got my foot in the door and my Jewellery out there. Not long after that I started my online website. The rest is history as they say.

What motivates you to keep your business going? My motivation is the absolute joy that it brings me, and the joy that I see on people’s faces when they find that perfect piece.

Do you have a current best-selling product or service? oh boy, it’s hard to answer that one. I guess I sell more necklaces than anything else. Unique and OAK pieces seem to sell better … people know that they’re not going to see them on anyone else.

How do you advertise your business and which methods have proven more successful? Advertising is still one of those things that I’m still learning a bit about. But the help I’ve received from Amanda at Support a WAHP has been great.

My facebook “like” page has been great … and Maryniky Design creations have winged their way across the globe.

Other avenues I’ve found valuable are participating in events that have been on around the area e.g. our local show, having my first Exhibition back in May, Craft Shows, and just recently participating in the Wedding Showcase.

How do you juggle your family and your WAH business? Any tips for other WAHP’s? haha, not very well somedays. Most of my work is done at night time, so that means late hours and early mornings. Doesn’t make for a very happy mummy some days .

Thankfully my children are at that age where they can entertain themselves, and we have very abiding neighbours who sometimes seem to inherit three more children over the weekends and holidays.

My tips for other WAHP’s? Patience – sometimes life just gets in the way and you just can’t get the work done when you want. It’s all a matter of managing your time (something I think I’m still learning) and having that balance between life, kids, business, and your passion.

And finally, what advice would you give to anyone wanting to start a WAH business? Just follow your heart … it will lead you in the right direction. If you are passionate about what you do, or what your business is, then take that leap and jump on in!!!