How I Got Here: Haus of Dizzy Founder Kristy Dickinson on always staying true to your brand
IMAGE VIA @HAUSOFDIZZY/INSTAGRAM
WORDS BY IZZY WIGHT
“Concentrate on the quality and the meaning behind each piece, not the quantity and dollar signs.”
Have you ever stalked someone on LinkedIn and wondered how on earth they managed to land that wildly impressive job? While the internet and social media might have us believe that our ideal job is a mere pipe dream, the individuals who have these jobs were, believe it or not, in the same position once, fantasising over someone else’s seemingly unattainable job.
But behind the awe-inspiring titles and the fancy work events lies a heck of a lot of hard work. So what lessons have been learnt and what skills have proved invaluable in getting them from daydreaming about success to actually being at the top of their industry?
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Welcome to How I Got Here, where we talk to women who are killing it in their respective fields about how they landed their awe-inspiring jobs, exploring the peaks and pits, the failures and the wins, and most importantly the knowledge, advice, and practical tips they’ve gleaned along the way.
This week we speak to Wiradjuri woman and Founder of Haus of Dizzy, Kristy Dickinson. Originally pursuing jewellery as a form of art therapy, Kristy found herself drawn to bold, colourful acrylic designs. She started creating pieces to “make people feel a sense of pride and empowerment”. Haus of Dizzy evolved into jewellery that observes social justice causes and uplifts minority groups, like First Nations and LGBTQIA+ people.
What started off as a one-woman show is now a team of six, operating out of Kristy’s store and studio in Fitzroy. While her journey as a small business owner hasn’t always been smooth, Kristy’s understanding of her customer and community has allowed Haus of Dizzy to thrive for almost two decades. Here’s what Kristy’s learnt on her journey.
What do you do and what’s your official job title?
Boss lady, designer, owner and Director of Haus of Dizzy and Haus of Ziggy Lee.
Take us back to when you were first starting out. Did you study to get into your chosen field, or did you start out with an internship/entry-level role and climb the ladder? Tell us the story.
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I started making jewellery to help with my anxiety and depression. It is a really great form of art therapy. I am completely self-taught and I have experimented with… quite a lot of different types of jewellery making, but fell in love with acrylic… and all the beautiful colours and glitters.
When I realised people actually liked my designs, I began selling at Bondi Beach and Glebe markets which led to wholesaling. The Museum of Contemporary Art store was one of my first stockists. I now sell to over 30 stores throughout Australia and New Zealand and I also now have my own flagship store in the heart of Fitzroy.
What challenges/hurdles have you faced getting to where you are now? Can you tell us about one in particular?
I have faced quite a few challenges over the years. [The] number one would be not underselling myself. I would just say a number instead of thinking about how much each item took to make, my time making it, the packaging and the size of the pieces.
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Another challenge was finding staff that I trusted. I am quite a kind person, which some people take advantage of. So now I only surround myself with people that want me to achieve my goals and support me in everything I do.
And lastly, time management. I used to have to do everything – design, laser-cut, assemble, post, [run the] social media, [do the] photography and [the] eCommerce. I was a one-woman show and my time was very limited. I now have a wonderful team of six women, who each have their roles and are a crucial part of Haus of Dizzy… I love them dearly.
What do you want people to know about your industry/your role?
Working in the fashion industry has taught me to be fast-paced, to think on my feet and to always be creative and brainstorm ideas. The fashion industry is constantly evolving, and I make new designs weekly. No idea is a bad idea and there is something for everyone.
What’s the best part about your role?
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The best part about my role is that I get to be creative every day and create wonderful pieces that make people feel a sense of pride and empowerment.
What would surprise people about your role?
What would surprise people about my role is that I am still actively working in the studio making jewellery, working in the store and working at market stalls and events.
What skills have served you well in your industry?
Skills that have served me well are good customer service and being a master multitasker.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be in a role like yours one day?
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The best advice I would give to anyone who wants a successful career is to always stay true to yourself and your brand. Concentrate on the quality and the meaning behind each piece, not the quantity and dollar signs. Always give back to the community, be humble and always give your customers the best customer service.
What about a practical tip?
Work hard and never give up.
Read the rest of the How I Got Here series here.
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