Creative Jewelry by Bridgeja', Bridgeja' Baker
At her first show, Baker earned more than $1,100 selling her jewellery creations. It was at that moment that she dedicated herself to turning her hobby into a full-fledged business venture. Baker's designs have even been featured on QVC.
Her success has allowed her to contribute a portion of the proceeds from her business to community organizations each year including the Louisiana SPCA, Children’s Hospital and Unity of Greater New Orleans.
Creative Jewelry by Bridgeja' received the 2012 Outstanding Minority-Owned Small Business SCORE Award.
It was an emergency trip to the orthodontist that brought Bridgeja’ Baker face-to-face with her future passion; she stumbled upon a bead store next door to the doctor’s office. Ten-year-old Baker immediately signed up for jewellery-making classes and soon began selling her custom creations online, at festivals and events and for custom orders including wedding parties. She started her business to create one-of-a-kind, show-stopping pieces using sterling silver, gold, gemstones, pearls, and Swarovski crystals.
Through SCORE's email mentoring program, Baker was paired with a seasoned business expert who helped propel her venture to new heights. Mentor Veronica Johnson corresponded via email with Baker, giving valuable guidance regarding unique marketing techniques and inexpensive promotion ideas to boost her brand. Johnson also recommended several community organizations and programs that Bridgeja' should use to her maximum benefit.