Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Freifeld.
Julia, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Kindness Gems started when I was a senior in college in 2017. I was a crisis counselor for survivors of sexual violence and wanted to start a jewelry company where 10% percent of proceeds went back to the organization I was volunteering for. I started going around my campus and giving presentations to school clubs and from there, I was fortunate enough to have it take off. When I graduated college, I took the business on the road and went throughout California getting my brand into boutiques up and down the coast. I settled down in San Diego and started expanding my online presence and my wholesale division. With every purchase, we incentivize our customers to complete an act of kindness and have our jewelry stand as a reminder to always show up with kindness and compassion.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I first started this company, I was trying to expand it as quickly as humanly possible. In the first year or so I had a headquarters and a staff of over ten people. I didn’t have work life balance and was spending every moment awake developing the next plan for growth. When the pandemic hit, everything came down on my shoulders. I was terrified we weren’t going to make it but it actually gave me the greatest gift of all. I was able to take a step back and reevaluate everything. I have since simplified the company and become a much wiser more efficient businesswoman. I am now rebuilding everything in a more sustainable way that will allow for true long-term growth without burnout. I am grateful to have the struggles I have had because they have set me straight and given me the wisdom to not bite off more than I can chew.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Kindness Gems?
Kindness Gems is more than a product, it’s a community of people wanted to spread kindness. It allows people to remind themselves of their own compassion as well as contribute to greater causes by having 10% of their purchase go directly towards various causes. I am proud to have created a community with the soul purpose of paying it forward and I have noticed that kindness truly spreads like wildfire. Our pieces are made with high-quality materials allowing them to be worn constantly in everyday life whether in the shower or at the beach so they can serve as a constant reminder to always approach every situation with kindness.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love everything about San Diego. From the beaches to the reggae music to the incredible Mexican food, it really checks all the boxes for me. What I truly love the most about San Diego is the people. Everyone is so down to earth and genuine. No one is in a rush and everyone is enjoying their lives to the fullest extent. It’s a constant reminder to really enjoy my time and not take it for granted.
Pricing:
- Rings: $35
- Simple Necklaces: $55
- Lariat Necklaces: $65
- Statement Necklaces: $75
- Drop Earrings: $55
Contact Info:
- Email: kindnessgems@gmail.com
- Website: kindnessgems.com
- Instagram: @kindnessgemsjewelry
- Facebook: Kindness Gems
Image Credits
Nate Ross insta: @nate_ross
