Beyond the desk: Khoury staff member Nicole Bekerian combines her jewelry-making and business passions
Beyond the Desk: Nicole Bekerian combines her jewelry-making and business passions
Author: Kelly Chan
Date: 06.27.22
At Khoury College of Computer Sciences, Nicole Bekerian is known for her leadership as associate director of marketing operations and events management. But last fall, she added another title: business owner.
Bekerian, a Husky double Northeastern-degree holder with a passion for entrepreneurship, has applied her business knowledge to simply the best, which offers a variety of handmade necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that are designed for simplicity and versatility. In an interview with Khoury News, she shares her inspiration for her brand and her takeaways from the journey.
Why did you start your jewelry business?
I have always wanted to be a business owner. I did my undergrad at Northeastern; for both of my co-ops, I managed a salon on Newbury Street, and I stayed there for two years post-grad. I thought that maybe I’d own my own salon one day.
Unfortunately, in March 2021, I lost my beloved dog Gibbs. I asked myself “what I should do?” since I bought a house right before the pandemic. I was so used to a schedule that revolved around taking care of Gibbs’ needs.
That May, I went down to my uncle’s house in Florida to get some fresh air and salt water, and at the airport on the way home, I decided it was the perfect time to start a business and that I needed to stop making excuses. I had a lot more time, and I wanted to do something in honor of Gibbs because he was such a big and positive part of my life. I pitched it to my parents in the airport, and my mom said, ‘I love it. Do it.’
I launched STB in October with the signature bracelet in honor of Gibbs, which is made with black onyx stones for protection and 11 spaces for his 11 years. A portion of the sales gets donated to a local animal shelter or rescue in his name.
When did you find your passion for jewelry-making?
I started selling jewelry in college just to try it. I couldn’t find things in stores that I wanted to wear, so I taught myself with YouTube videos, some books, and practice — a lot of practice.
What qualities or elements are important to you in creating your products?
I mainly work with gemstones and crystals because of their healing properties. With everything that’s happened in the pandemic, we all could use a bit of extra healing. For the necklaces and earrings, I use all sterling silver or gold-filled jewelry so that it will last, and I work to keep it affordable.
Everything I do is also very simple. I remember when I was in Florida, I was out shopping, and I realized that I have a specific taste because I don’t want to buy one thing for one outfit. I want something I can use regardless of the location, event, or what I’m wearing. So, I focus on simple designs that match your look regardless of where you are.
What inspired the name?
“simply the best” comes from a few inspirations. First, everything I design is simple. Then, everything ties back to Gibbs, and he really was simply the best. I also love the reference to “Schitt’s Creek.”
How have your experiences at Northeastern played a role in managing your new business?
At Northeastern, I went to the business school and concentrated on marketing and management. From my time managing the salon on Newbury Street, I learned how to run a small business, which was incredible.
Then there’s my Khoury role and my master’s degree from Northeastern, which is in education with a focus in higher ed administration. I’ve been working at Khoury College for the last 11 years, so I’ve had many different roles from budgeting to branding to project and event management.
How has starting your new business influenced your Khoury role?
It’s given me even more respect for my teammates, as I’ve had to put on everyone’s hat and figure everything out. Normally at Khoury, we all work together to get something done, like changing the website, so it’s given me a lot more insight into different roles.
What have you learned through this journey so far?
That I’m stronger than I think. I was pretty broken after losing Gibbs. It was just me and him for 11 years, so it was hard adjusting. I’m also pretty proud of myself for actually starting a business because I’ve talked about it for years. It just shows that sometimes you just have to start, dive in, and keep going.
I also realized how many small business owners were already in my life. I got so much support and advice from them, and it was uplifting to know that while I’m starting this alone, there are many people in my life who are supporting me.
What are your main goals for your business?
My five-year goal is to have a brick-and-mortar storefront — I already know what I want it to look like. I currently have pieces in six different Massachusetts locations, but I want to continue to expand to different stores across the country.
To see the full range of products, visit simply the best’s website and Instagram.