Let's Talk Business with Claire Hwang/JUSTXCOLOUR

An Interview with Claire Hwang

1. What's your business? What products do you sell?

JUSTXCOLOUR is an online jewellery boutique that specializes in producing handcrafted earrings. Prioritising to just bring colour into the ordinary.

2. How and why did you start your business? What made you want to do what you do?

I started the boutique when I realised that there were specific designs I wanted to purchase which didn’t ship to Australia. Ultimately I decided to draw and craft my own designs as a small hobby. However, once receiving numerous compliments I was influenced to open my own small store.

3. What's the hardest thing about running your business?

Just like any other hobby, time management is definitely one of the most difficult aspects of running a business as a student. It’s crucial to decide when is the ‘right time’ to open, sell and prepare stocks and ensure that it doesn’t distract your designated study time.

4. What do you enjoy most about it?

Personally, I enjoy the designing and handcrafting process the most as I make products which I would want to purchase or wear. This allows me to freely express my creativity as well as relieve stress thus becoming both a rewarding and healing experience.

5. Do you have anything in mind for the future? Future products, business ventures?

Realistically, just continuing handcrafting accessories as a hobby is my plan. As an inconsistent person being consistent in itself is quite a difficult task and going to university will most likely bring change. However, as long as I am consistent I assume things will naturally grow for the better over time.

6. What's your favourite product?

All of the products are my favourite due to the amount of effort, time and thought put into each design however if I had to choose the Classic Cherry earrings are definitely one of my favourites as they were the reason I started handcrafting my own accessories. Despite the popular trend seen all across the internet ironically it was quite difficult to find similar designs in Sydney stores, and with my own twist with the pearls, they definitely become a unique statement:) For more designs check us out on Instagram at @justxcolour

7. What advice would you give to anyone interested in starting their own business?

Personally, it hasn’t been quite long since I have started so I don’t think I’m in the right position to be giving advice however if you have a clear vision of what you want just go for it. Purely think of it as a hobby and you won’t regret it.