Tria Dunlop's earrings were just the right fit for Eclectic Soul.
The 13-year-old Salmon Arm resident recently launched her own jewelry line under the name JoJo's Jewels (JoJo is a nickname given to Tria by her one-year-old sister). Her line-up was launched at downtown business Eclectic Soul on Wednesday, Feb. 5. Several pairs had sold by the following day.
Tria's foray into making ear bling began at Christmas when she received a do-it-yourself earring kit.
"I started making them just for my mom and little sister 鈥� she doesn鈥檛 have her ears pierced but she wears them on top of her ears so I was just thinking for family and stuff," said Tria, who began thinking about making more earrings to sell in town.
An opportunity arose during a visit to Eclectic Soul, where Tria, accompanied by mother Kim, stopped to shop for a birthday present for a friend.
"As we were checking out, the store owner, Deborah Proznick, complimented my earrings," explained Kim in an email to the Observer. "I mentioned that my 13-year-old daughter had handmade them, and Deborah was so impressed that she enthusiastically offered to sell Tria鈥檚 earrings in her store, if she was interested."
Proznick said she agreed provided the product was made and displayed well and clean. She and husband Rick said they sell a range of locally made items on consignment.
"I try to support local as much as I can," said Deb. "It鈥檚 good for the community and it鈥檚 good for us."
Tria's visit with the Proznicks spurred her into action.
"Over the past several weeks, Tria dedicated all of her spare time to designing and handcrafting each pair of earrings," said Kim. "She took the initiative to create a brand name, a logo, an Instagram page, and even a custom display unit to showcase her work. From this, JoJo's Jewels was born."
Tria noted her father Todd helped, using a label maker for stickers for the backing cards and a 3D printer to make a sign for the display stand.
On Wednesday, Tria dropped off the display and 30 pairs of earrings at Eclectic Soul.
"She was thrilled yesterday when she brought it in," said Rick.
Kim said her daughter was once again met with warmth, encouragement and support from the Proznicks.
"Their generosity and belief in young entrepreneurs like Tria truly make them shining stars in our community," said Kim. "It鈥檚 important to celebrate and support incredible people like Deborah and Rick, who uplift and inspire the next generation of creators and business owners."
Tria said she hopes to make more types of earrings to be sold at Eclectic Soul.
"I love creating things and crafts and all that鈥� it鈥檚 just a lot of fun to be able to make crafts and also now I鈥檓 going to be able to make money from them," said Tria.
