Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Rolfe.
Linda, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My whole life, even when I was little, I was fascinated by fashion and accessories and was always putting different outfits together. I definitely knew what I wanted to be; a fashion or jewelry designer. So, I went to college and double majored in Fashion Design and Business Administration. I knew having a business degree would help me with owning my own company one day. While living overseas in England and in France where the street style was just mind-blowingly cool, I was extremely lucky to have been able to attend the Fashion Shows at the Louvre in Paris, France. It was mesmerizing to see all of the famous designer shows while standing right at the end of the runways and then meeting them backstage. Ever since then, I’ve been determined to have my own business doing something creative and something I love. I’ve also been lucky enough along the way to have 9 to 5’s that also encompass my passion for designing and creating beautiful products. I’ve designed several different types of products such as backpacks, lunch coolers, and gardening gloves for Target and other large retailers. I use trend research to develop successful products that are aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
My passion is researching the market, trends, and then developing ideas and concepts for creating everything from apparel to the jewelry that I’m designing today. The jewelry idea started because I was looking for a way to raise awareness for women and children’s charities that help them transform their lives after getting out of human trafficking. I don’t think people realize that it’s happening in our back yard. There are over 15,000 in Illinois alone and that number is probably low compared to reality. A lot of people don’t want to think it’s happening either. I wanted to design a product that would create harmony and compassion, but also be fun and trendy and help others. So, I decided to create a jewelry line with a special message – “U Matter” to raise awareness for this cause. Jewelry is fun as it always fits! It’s great to give as gifts and/or buy for yourself. I don’t think I’ve ever heard someone say, “I’ve got too much jewelry, I’ll pass”. The Celtic symbol charm that I designed stands for Strength, Compassion, and Empowerment and is inscribed on the back with “U Matter”. I donate 15% of profits to several women’s and children’s charities in the Chicago area to help transform their lives after this traumatic experience. They provide safe housing, medical care, therapy, and more to help them heal and get on their feet. Together, we can help! U Matter! Everyone Matters!
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
My biggest challenge is getting the word out about the brand and getting people to the website. The other big challenge is to get people to buy what’s in their carts. Working through these issues is difficult, but each day you figure things out. I think these days a lot of young women think that it’s super easy to start a business. They see others on Instagram and YouTube and think, wow, that looks easy, I can do that. You can do it, but be smart. It’s not all glam and glory. Don’t quit your day job until your side job pays your bills – plus more. Health care is expensive and people forget about that. Ask for help. I had a hard time asking for help because I was already in the business of designing and making products. Why would I need help? I should already know everything. Well, no one knows everything. Just ask.
We’d love to hear more about Linda Rolfe .
I design beautiful and trendy jewelry with a special meaning behind it. U matter. Because everyone matters, especially in the crazy world we live in today. It’s nice to be able to give someone a gift and have them see the words u matter inscribed on the charm/tag. Being able to design jewelry for a social cause brings me joy. I’m most proud of being able to donate 15% of profits to help transform the lives of women and children. I also am very conscientious about making sure that my jewelry is made in the USA. I design all of my charms in Chicago and send them to New York to be made. I then create and hand make the necklaces in my home in Chicago.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
I have been reading Entrepreneur magazine for the last 10 years. It always gives you a boost of confidence knowing that others are out there giving it all they can and making it. Furthermore, reading how other people overcame their challenges gives your insight on how you might be able to overcome your challenges. I also read different articles specific to what I’m designing, for instance, different jewelry blogs or YouTube videos on how to get the best photos on white background, how to get more people to the website, and any other articles to help build the business. I also read Forbes which has some great articles to read regarding running a business.
Pricing:
- Our prices range from $29.99 to $59.99
- 15% of profits is donated to women’s and children’s charities
Contact Info:
- Website: www.umatterdesigns.com
- Phone: 773-805-2274
- Email: Linda@umatterdesigns.com
- Instagram: umatterdesigns
- Facebook: umatterdesigns
Image Credit:
Linda Rolfe
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
