“Love life, engage in it, give it all you've got. Love it with a passion, because life truly does give back, many times over, what you put into it.” — Maya Angelou
Bezales is not your ordinary company. And the driving force behind Bezales is certainly not your average corporate leader. Instead, the Bezales story is about family, values, hard work and creativity — not to mention the vision of a 16-year old entrepreneur.
Here’s the story in Meghan’s own words...
When I was thirteen years old, my family and I were vacationing in North Carolina when I came upon a crafters kit. The kit contained small plastic stones and paints with instructions on how to decorate them. I enjoyed painting them so much that when we arrived back home I began experimenting with magazine pictures and different kinds of stones.
I found that the glass stones were more durable and higher quality. By attaching magnets to the back of them, I was able to use them in my locker at school. My friends started commenting on their unique design, and before I knew it they were asking me to make magnets for their lockers. At one point, someone asked if I could put a picture behind the stone. Through trial and error, I was able to develop a unique method that I use today to incorporate a photo behind a glass stone.
As I made more and more photo magnets, it seemed only natural to transition the idea into a necklace. At first, they were the perfect customized presents for my friends and family. Each one was unique and designed just for them. After giving them as gifts, I sold my first necklace at age 14. I began doing home parties to sell them and the reaction has been nothing short of overwhelming. Many women choose photos of their children, and comment that they love the fact that they can show off their children while, at the same time, wear a fashionable piece of jewelry. Or they sometimes include a photo of a memento like their wedding flowers.
My favorite part about the business is putting that final package together for the customer. Most people have an idea of what to expect, but when they actually see the finished piece they’re stunned. They love that it’s a unique piece, handmade with quality materials at a reasonable price. It’s a great experience to see and hear all the positive reactions.
I look forward to growing my business with the continued support of my friends and family. I definitely plan on attending college, and hope to have a career someday in costume and special effect makeup. That would incorporate my creativity as well as my love for travel — two things I love to do.
I can tell that each picture or design given to me is such a big part of the lives of the people who order the necklaces. That’s what’s so special about Bezales — each piece is so meaningful to each person, and I so enjoy being a part of it for them.