Introducing Rosie Fortescue, Founder of her eponymous jewellery brand
Meet Rosie, Founder of Rosie Fortescue Jewellery
“I am a London born Demi-Fine jewellery designer. I am obsessed with jewellery, accessories and my hands. From manicures, to a new tiny smiley face tattoo on the inside of my finger, I think hands can be the most elegant part of the body and accessorising them in jewellery makes the perfect compliment.”
Join us as Rosie shares her inspiration, tools and routine for running a successful business, along with how she manages her finances and her favourite places to hang out in London.
rosiefortescuejewellery.com
@rosiefortescuejewellery
Rosie Fortescue Jewellery
You started your jewellery brand in 2015, shortly after leaving Made in Chelsea. Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your brand?
I have been a magpie for as long as I can remember. My earliest memory is trying on my mother’s rings as a small child. I saw a gap in the market for affordable luxury jewellery after saving up at 16 from a Saturday job to buy some designer jewellery that tarnished so quickly. I thought it was crazy that some rings for several hundred pounds would be such bad quality, so that set the spark in my mind which I then put into practice 9 years later!
How would you best describe the ethos of your brand?
Demi-Fine jewellery that can be worn from day-to-night that won’t break the bank. I want my brand to be accessible to treat yourself at the end of a great or awful, day or week. Not just something for a Birthday or Christmas present.
What’s the most rewarding thing about being an entrepreneur in the jewellery industry?
Seeing people wear my jewellery. Getting messages from customers or friends who see their other friends out wearing Rosie Fortescue Jewellery. Nothing beats someone telling me they have bought my jewels!
What are some key trending pieces in your collection at the moment?
The Rainbow Emerald Cut Rings are a great pop of colour statement. The Tennis Necklaces and Bracelets and are classics.
Who are your typical customers?
My customers range from about 16-60, so multi-generational. I just love the idea that a girl and her mother both wear Rosie Fortescue Jewellery.
What were some of the steps to start your brand?
Trademarking, factory research and sampling where the initial steps and then every day was a learning curve from there!
Can you share some hurdles that you have overcome and how you did it?
I have never studied business so every day since launching Rosie Fortescue Jewellery has been a hurdle. I like a challenge!
What tools do you use to keep yourself organised in business?
I am thankfully so incredibly organised which has definitely been a lifeline when running this business on my own. (I own 100%).
Rosie Fortescue Jewellery
WEALTH
Describe your relationship with money and personal finance in three words?
Saver, spender and planner.
What is your definition of wealth?
Comfort; to be able to work, live, enjoy and explore life in a way that fulfils you.
What did you learn about finance and money when you were growing up?
I never specifically had any lessons or classes as such, however I have always been a saver and managed money well from a young age.
How do you manage your own finances?
I do a lot on my own. I have a financial advisor who also helps.
How confident do you feel in making financial decisions for yourself?
I have to be with Rosie Fortescue Jewellery, because no one else is going to do it!
What is your number one financial priority?
To keep Rosie Fortescue Jewellery thriving without the need for investment.
Which area of finance do you wish you knew more about?
VAT returns. I could save thousands if I didn’t have to hire an accountant for each business I own!
What is one non-negotiable luxury in your day-to-day expenses?
Travel and experiences. They keep me alive, ambitious and inspired to design more jewels!
WELLNESS
How do you start your days?
At the moment I start the day with 30 minutes pilates at home with Pilates by Bryony and Athletic Greens.
Where do you like to hang out in London?
I am a serious foodie so dinners or Sunday lunches with friends are what truly make me happy. Gold, Mister Nice and Zephyr are my current favourites.
What is the most important life lesson you have learnt?
To not let life pass you by and enjoy every moment.
What is the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
To do what you love and you’ll love what you do.
What is a quote that you live by?
No specific quote, but to really appreciate and acknowledge every step in life. Life is so precious.
If you weren’t doing what you do… what would you do?
I literally couldn’t think of anything else I’d rather do!
What’s next for you?
I have some fun Sunglasses Chains and Phone Charms I am launching for Summer which is an exciting new product line.
ROSIE’S TOP INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS TO FOLLOW
