At just 14 years old, Rahnijah Still has turned her love for fashion and all things pretty into a blossoming jewelry business. With creativity, determination, and a family of entrepreneurs supporting her, Rahnijah is proving that age is no barrier to following your passion.
A Spark of Inspiration
Rahnijah’s journey into the world of jewelry-making began with a simple yet heartfelt mission. At 13, she wanted to buy her mom a birthday present but didn’t have the funds. “I had lots of beads in my closet and wasn’t sure what to do with them,” Rahnijah shares. “So, I decided to make a beaded bracelet. I figured I could sell them to people who love handmade jewelry as much as I do.”
What started as a single bracelet has grown into a creative business that allows Rahnijah to share her love of beautiful, handcrafted designs with the world.
Overcoming Challenges
Starting a business as a teenager isn’t easy, and Rahnijah faced her share of obstacles. “My biggest challenge was knowing where to sell and when,” she explains. After attending events that didn’t attract her ideal audience, Rahnijah took matters into her own hands by researching markets online and seeking her mom’s advice. She also overcame her natural shyness, learning how to engage with potential customers.
“Talking to people I don’t know can be hard, but I’ve gotten better at it,” she admits.
The Creative Process
Rahnijah’s designs come from a mix of inspiration and experimentation. “I start by looking at colors or designs I like,” she says. “Then I lay out my supplies—beads, chains, charms, tools—and see what works best together.” Each piece can take anywhere from five minutes to an hour to complete, depending on the complexity.
Her dedication to quality is evident in her choice of materials. “Most of my jewelry is nickel-free, and I pick materials based on how they’ll look on different skin tones,” Rahnijah explains.
One of her favorite creations is a Tom and Jerry bracelet she made for her mom. “It’s special because it reminds me of how much I love her,” she says with a smile.
Life as a Young Entrepreneur
Balancing school and business is no small feat, but Rahnijah has found a routine that works. After school, she spends her afternoons crafting jewelry. While her mom manages her social media, Rahnijah takes the lead at vendor shows, calculating prices, speaking with customers, and distributing flyers.
Learning the ins and outs of pricing has been a growth experience. “At first, my prices were too low,” she says. “Now I understand the importance of including overhead costs, travel expenses, and the time it takes to make each piece.”
Lessons Learned and Future Goals
Running her own company has taught Rahnijah valuable life lessons. “I’ve learned to determine the worth of my jewelry and work on my own schedule,” she says.
Although setbacks, like customers walking past her booth, can be discouraging, Rahnijah stays positive. “It hurts, but I try not to let it break my spirit. It won’t change who I am.”
Looking ahead, Rahnijah hopes to expand her business and explore new techniques, including resin jewelry. “I’m so excited to share my new designs with my friends and family,” she says.
Inspiring Others
Rahnijah also gives back by donating her creations to people who can’t afford them. Her advice to other teens? “Follow your dreams and passions. Never let anyone stop you from being the person you’re meant to be. Everyone has a talent—it’s up to you to use it.”
With her determination and talent, Rahnijah Still is a shining example of what’s possible when you combine passion with hard work. Keep an eye on this rising star in the world of handmade jewelry—you won’t want to miss what she creates next! Follow Nijah’s Creations on Facebook!
