Designer Spotlight: Kamilah Campbell

A brief story of what you do and why you do it:

I'm the designer, marketing strategist, packager, photographer (you name it I do it) for The Pink Locket. Designing jewelry gives me freedom on many different levels. I recently wrote a blog post that most of my inspiration comes from my customers and that's the reason I do it. I realize that my customers have many choices of places they can shop for jewelry, but they choose me and I highly value them.

How did you get into jewelry design?

I've been designing jewelry since I was about 15 years old. My aunt introduced me to the craft of jewelry making when she would take my sister and cousins on her many trips to the garment district NYC. I started The Pink Locket in 2007 when I moved to Atlanta. It was a originally a way for me to have a creative outlet outside of my corporate career. I then realized how much I loved it and decide to make a business out of it.

What makes your collection unique?

I use either recycled metals or old jewelry (I like to upcycle) in a lot of my jewelry pieces. I'm also big on personalizing items for my customers.

What are your inspirations?

I just recently did a blog post on what my inspirations are and in addition to pulling inspiration from street styles I would have to say my customers inspire me. I receive feedback and suggestions from them. I see what items sell the most or colors that are popular among them and I listen to that.

How are you making a difference in your life?

I've realized that my options are endless. I used to think I had to choose between working a corporate career or running a jewelry business and the truth is I can do both. I realized that having an entrepreneurial spirit is contagious and my experiences can give life to someone else who's thinking about possibly starting a business. I've also realized that when I prioritize what's important, opportunities fall into place.

What's something unusual about you that makes you “you”?

I like to motivate others around me. I tend to be very sensitive to other people's feelings and a good listener.

What's the biggest struggle in running your jewelry business like a business? OR What is your biggest success in running your business like a business?

Biggest struggle is I'm literally a one stop shop and sometimes there isn't enough time in a day. I've stuck to time management with each task and that keeps me on point. I think my biggest success is I have the creativity to drive this brand and that's empowering for me.

Born in Jamaica, my family immigrated to the U.S. when I was a year old and I grew up in Bronx, NY and Stamford, CT. I graduated from the University of Connecticut with a degree in International Trade and later pursued my MBA in Media Management. I'm married with 3 sons and 2 dogs.

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