From Pop-Ups to Success: Inspiring Guam Entrepreneurs to Dream Big
Starting a small business is never easy, but with passion and determination, anything is possible. Velani Jewelry is proof that dreams can be achieved with hard work, community support, and a clear vision. In just two years, we’ve gone from hosting our first pop-up at Chamorro Village in 2022 to competing against four other established stores for Pika’s Best of Guam 2024 "Best Jewelry Store."
From Humble Beginnings to a Top Contender
As a husband-and-wife team—my husband, a Navy veteran, and I, an expat from Brazil—we launched Velani Jewelry with a shared dream. Lacking the resources for a physical store, we began by hosting pop-ups across Guam, starting at Chamorro Village. Our focus has always been on connecting with our community in a more personal way, and that approach has been central to our growth. Velani Jewelry Guam Popup Locations
The Power of Pop-Ups: How We Keep Costs Low and Pass on Savings
Running a pop-up business allowed us to operate with minimal overhead. Without the burden of rent and high utility costs, we’re able to pass those savings directly to our customers. This model has been key in allowing us to offer high-quality 18K gold-filled jewelry at accessible prices while competing with larger, established stores.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs in Guam
We hope our journey encourages others in Guam to pursue their own business dreams. Guam is filled with opportunities for local entrepreneurs, whether it’s through marketplaces, events, or pop-up shops. The local community is supportive, and there’s a market for everything from crafts to fashion and beyond.
Tips for Starting Your Own Small Business in Guam
- Start Small, Dream Big: Begin with what you have and build from there. We started Velani Jewelry with a modest collection and a vision.
- Use Local Marketplaces: Guam offers a range of opportunities for pop-up shops and market events to reach your community and test your products.
- Tell Your Story: People connect with authenticity. Share who you are, your values, and why you started. For us, being a Navy veteran and a Brazilian expat husband-and-wife team is part of why our customers believe in us.
Embracing the Guam Community
Running a small business in Guam has allowed us to build strong relationships within the community. The support we’ve received has been instrumental in our growth, and being in the running for Pika’s Best of Guam 2024 as the "Best Jewelry Store" is a huge milestone for us.
Don’t Be Afraid to Take the First Step
If you have a passion or dream, don’t let doubt hold you back. Guam is a vibrant place with opportunities for anyone willing to take the leap. Whether it’s at a pop-up market, local event, or through social media, there’s a way to turn your dream into reality.
Conclusion: Your Dreams Are Within Reach
Our journey with Velani Jewelry is a reminder that you can achieve your goals with persistence and a solid plan, no matter how humble your beginnings. Whether you want to sell jewelry, food, art, or crafts, Guam is the perfect place to start. Embrace the entrepreneurial spirit, connect with your community, and take the first step toward building your dream business today.
