Growing up in a family of artists, David earned his first money through painting and jewelry making. He continues to do both, but now has the status of a successful entrepreneur. Finding a balance between art and business is difficult, but at the same time very interesting - that's why he loves his daily life so much.
The company has revived an old and forgotten jewelry-making technique and today produces modern Georgian jewelry using exactly this technique. You would otherwise only see such jewelry in museums. As a jewelry master, David always strives to balance his artistic vision, the technical details of production, and economic factors.
My story
I grew up in a family of artists. My father and brother made jewelry. I also earned my first income while I was a student, making jewelry and painting. In 2016, the three of us decided to start a company together.
Exactly one year after this incident, I attended my first seminar at BPN Georgia. I have now attended more than 16 seminars – from each of them I gained some practical knowledge, which I later used in my daily work. For example, creating a “business cockpit” – always helps me to have the necessary information at the right time to make important decisions.
Today, I systematically use personal profile analysis in the process of selecting new employees. I no longer rely solely on other people's recommendations and I also check whether a person is a good fit for our company. The main lesson I learned while working with employees was that you must set a goal and completely entrust them with the ways to achieve it. I especially value entrepreneurial thinking in new employees — I want them to not just follow my orders, but to think like entrepreneurs too.
At this stage, we already manage 2 stores, a workshop, and a team of 10 people. Revenue is growing, but at the same time, expenses are also seriously increasing.
In order to further improve our sales, profits, and growth rate, we need to focus more on marketing. We are currently working on creating a new website. Our main goal is to tap into new markets – especially in the US, where many Georgian immigrants live and are very interested in Georgian jewelry.
What do you like most about this industry?
The art of jewelry is subject to certain rules, because both the material and the processing technique have their own rules. It is these restrictions that make the creation both difficult and interesting – and that is what I like. I have to combine my imagination with these rules, but despite this, I can still create something special and unique.
What is the biggest challenge?
Probably taking responsibility for many people. For example, ensuring that salaries are paid on time, while also taking care of my family.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
Embrace and learn from your mistakes. Pain is the best teacher, and making mistakes will enrich you. Gain as much experience as possible to make your future better.
Your dream?
My life is my dream come true, for which I am very grateful. My best day is "today"!
