On today's episode I'm chatting with Olivia Landau, CEO and founder of The Clear Cut.
Olivia’s business, The Clear Cut, is a direct to consumer jewellery business that’s completely disrupting the industry. They’ve flipped the traditional jewellery on its head through marketing, zoom call appointments and supply chain. She's a diamond expert, GIA Graduate Gemologist and 4th generation jeweller with social know-how and millennial charm. We learn about how she and her now husband came to start the business, the accelerator program that gave them the structure they needed to scale and what’s working for them right now.
Launching a business is no small feat, especially in the jewelry industry, where tradition runs deep and the competition can be fierce. For one female founder, stepping into the CEO role was a mix of excitement and challenge, but she embraced it wholeheartedly.
Seed Funding: The Launchpad
She began her entrepreneurial journey with support from Techstars, receiving around $120,000 during a three-month program. This funding not only provided a safety net but also the confidence to take calculated risks. Interestingly, the business was already profitable before she even dipped into those funds. For her, it was a game-changer—quitting her job and leaping into the unknown felt a bit less daunting with that backup.
Entering a High-Barrier Industry
Many aspiring jewelers face significant entry barriers due to the high cost of goods and the intricate knowledge required. This founder's background, rooted in her family's understanding of the industry, gave her a unique advantage. She emphasizes the importance of education and hands-on experience for anyone looking to break into the world of engagement jewelry and diamonds.
While she recommends pursuing formal training—like the Graduate Gemologist program or at least focusing on diamonds—she highlights the value of real-world experience. Working at prestigious establishments like Tiffany & Co. and exploring the wholesale side of the business helped her pinpoint her niche and better serve a demographic often overlooked.
Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry
Being a woman in a male-dominated field certainly comes with its challenges. While she has faced skepticism from older male colleagues, her unique position allows her to connect with millennial women—who now play an integral role in the jewelry buying process. In today’s market, couples are more involved in these purchases, often collaborating on decisions that will symbolize their commitment.
She recognizes the advantages of understanding her clients' aesthetics and preferences firsthand. This intimate connection gives her a competitive edge over older, traditional jewelers who may not grasp the evolving needs of younger consumers.
The Importance of Authentic Marketing
In the early days, this founder focused on organic marketing—creating relatable, educational content that engaged her audience. By encouraging customers to share their proposal stories and showcasing the beauty of love through stunning imagery, she developed a community that was genuinely invested in her brand.
Despite initial hesitations, platforms like TikTok have become valuable for sharing educational content and connecting with a broader audience. As the platform evolves, she sees an opportunity to carve out a niche that resonates with her brand's authentic message.
Embracing Remote Consultations
Transitioning to a mostly remote business model was not initially planned, but it made perfect sense as customer inquiries came from across the country and even the globe. Recognizing that many clients lacked access to quality craftsmanship locally, she embraced technology for personalized experiences.
Offering consultations via Zoom, she ensures that every client receives individualized attention, making the process feel special, even from a distance. This remote approach has also proven effective for word-of-mouth referrals, as clients happily share their experiences with friends and family.
Challenges of Scaling
As her business continues to grow, she faces new challenges, such as team management and scaling operations. Learning to navigate these obstacles while maintaining a high standard of customer service is key to her ongoing success. With every challenge tackled, new ones arise, but her commitment to her craft and clients remains unwavering.
Final Thoughts
For aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women looking to break into the jewelry industry, this founder's journey offers valuable insights. Embrace the challenges, invest in education and experience, and don’t shy away from leveraging technology to connect with your audience. In an industry steeped in tradition, her innovative approach and dedication to understanding her clients’ needs have set her on a path to success—and she’s just getting started.
