January 12th, 2024
Jewellery, Motherhood, and the Drive to Thrive
Starting a business isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s full of “holy shit” moments, late nights, and figuring it out as you go.
For me, it’s been a wild but rewarding ride, especially as a single mom trying to create a life that supports my family.
With my wholesale jewellery background, I had some experience, but building something from scratch while raising three kids? Let’s just say it’s been a crash course in resilience.
So, here’s a real look into my journey—what keeps me going, what I’ve learned, and the challenges I’m still figuring out.
1. What inspired you to start Enti Ana Jewellery?
During Covid, my bestie and I both wanted a Herringbone necklace, and I had access to manufactures from when I was in the wholesale business.
I decided to order some, and we sold it to family and friends on Instagram. We sold out, brought in two different necklaces from Italy, and sold those too.
Eventually, I wanted to get proper packaging, launch a website, and really turn it into a full-on business. She left the company soon after due to some personal life changes, so I kept going solo.
2. Why "Enti Ana"? Is there a special meaning behind the name?
“Enti Ana” means “you and I” in Arabic. It felt like a perfect fit for a business built around community. The name reflects the connection between the pieces we create and the people who wear them—an ongoing relationship.
3. How has starting a business as a mom of three shaped your journey, especially now as a single mom?
I have three kids, and it's been a mix of chaos and calm.
I started my business because I had access to products I loved and wanted to share with others.
My goal was to offer timeless, high-quality jewellery at accessible prices, especially since the market felt divided between cheap options and overpriced high-end items.
I wanted to bridge that gap and create pieces people could wear and layer together without sacrificing quality.
Now, as a single mom with two young boys, everything has taken on a whole new meaning.
The pressure has definitely intensified – not just to build a business I love, but to provide for my kids, be present for their milestones, and carry the weight of financial and emotional responsibilities.
It’s not always easy, but they’re my drive. Everything I do is for them, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
4. What’s the biggest challenge you faced in the first year, and how did you get through it?
Honestly, being a one-woman show was the hardest part. Between figuring out packaging, setting up Shopify, and managing the website backend, it felt like I was juggling 50 things at once.
Plus, I came from the wholesale world, so retail was a whole new ball game. I had zero experience in it, and let’s just say I’m not exactly tech-savvy. But hey, everything is figure-outable!
Coffee, stubbornness, and a willingness to learn have kept me going!
5. Do you remember the first piece you sold – and did you almost keep it for yourself?
Yes! The Herringbone and Paperclip Chain were two of our first pieces, and they’ve been bestsellers from the start. We still carry them!
6. What’s been the most unexpected lesson from running your own jewellery brand?
I think one of the biggest lessons is learning to trust the process and not give up when things get tough.
The journey will never be linear, and there will always be challenges that come up unexpectedly, but persistence is key.
It’s about showing up every day, even when it feels like things aren’t moving as quickly as you want them to.
Another huge lesson is knowing when to ask for help. You can't do everything on your own, and the earlier you realize that and surround yourself with people who can bring expertise and perspective, the faster you’ll grow.
Trusting your instincts while also being open to feedback is a fine balance that takes time to master, but once you get it, it makes everything feel more aligned.
7. Which design or collection feels the most personal to you, and why?
The emerald collection was really special to me. Green is my favourite colour, and I find it grounding and peaceful. It felt personal because it represented strength and balance – something I really strive for in my life and business.
8. What’s one thing you wish people knew about you?
Honestly, some days I have no idea what I’m doing. I’m just trying to figure it out as I go, doing the best I can, and learning along the way. But I keep my heart open, keep the faith, and stay grateful for what I can control.
Does anyone really know what they’re doing?
I think we all have our struggles, and I believe that sharing and being authentic in those moments humanizes us all.
Some days it feels like I’m winging it – and honestly, that’s part of the journey. It’s the amazing community around me that keeps me going.
Your support is everything. So, if I ever seem like I’ve got it all together, just know it’s a blend of trust, coffee, and a little bit of winging it. And, hey, it's working... for now!
9. What makes jewellery special?
It’s the energy behind it that makes it so meaningful.
Each piece takes you back to a moment, a feeling, or a memory that’s close to your heart.
But what I love most is knowing that once my pieces leave my studio, they’re going on a journey with you. They're not just part of an outfit; they’re part of your life.
Every package I pack feels like it's setting off on an adventure, ready to accompany you through all the moments that matter.
I want you to feel like you’re wearing a reminder of your best self, something that completes your look and carries with it all the stories and emotions that make you who you are.
From the moment it leaves my hands to wherever it goes next, it’s a piece of your story, and that’s what makes it truly special.
10. If you could give one piece of advice to another mom going through a tough season and thinking of starting something new, what would it be?
Take care of your heart first, and that means your mental and physical health. Prioritize your well-being – your body and mind are the foundation for everything else.
I’m a huge believer in how working out and taking care of yourself can help you feel stronger and more capable when life gets tough.
It doesn’t matter what else is going on; taking time for yourself gives you the energy to keep moving forward, and it’s key to maintaining balance through the chaos.
But also, give yourself permission to rest. You don’t have to start something new just because life’s shifting.
But if you do feel a spark and something calling you to create, then let it fuel you on those days when getting out of bed feels like a struggle.
Having that passion can be the thing that keeps you going.
Surround yourself with people who uplift you, who remind you of your strength, and don’t let the hard days stop you from building your dream.
I’d love to hear from you – what’s a piece of jewellery that means something special to you?
And friends, if you're thinking about making a purchase, don't forget to use the code HANAN15 for 15% off!
Love always,
Hanan