Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is Montreal-based jewelry designer Stephanie Dugre, whose brand can be found in some of the city’s most prestigious shops. We caught up with her to find out about the challenges of starting her business and what advice she would share with other young professionals…
WORK
Describe what you do in less than 140 characters. Go.
In a nutshell, I am the founder and designer of Ella Dugre – a custom luxury handmade jewelry brand based in Montreal that was founded in 2013.
What was the inspiration for your career route?
I always loved accessorizing when I was young. I believed jewelry could really complement and complete an outfit. I would jokingly say that one day I would have a brand as I loved fashion so much. Although I did, that was a dream and I actually thought I wanted to be a lawyer so I worked towards that throughout CEGEP. I did not get accepted into law school when I first applied so this was the time when I decided to take private jewelry lessons and start my line. It turned out to be a blessing as it really allowed me to pursue my passion and create my brand.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career so far?
Having pop-up events at La Maison Ogilvy. I have partaken in three events thus far and it is a dream come true for me. I always envisioned my line being sold within the Ogilvy/Holt Renfrew stores, so to be able to partake in pop-ups there is one of my proudest achievements.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years, 10 years, 20 years?
I see Ella Dugre being a worldwide brand and being sold in a number of locations throughout the U.S. and Europe. I would also love to give a TED Talk one day.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
If you love something and want to make it a business, persevere. Time tests you and you will have challenges. That’s the journey. If you love it, you will naturally work hard at it no matter what. For me, there was no other option.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is it (or they) important to you?
I support the Canadian Liver Foundation, Movember Foundation, Montreal Children’s Hospital, Canadian Cancer Society, and the Heart and Stroke Foundation. I support these causes as they are dear to me and I truly believe it is important to give back.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
A big one over the years was proving myself to my family. I come from a traditional family and naturally, they want the best for you and to pick a secure career path. My choice to pursue my brand and not reconsider law school was a big decision that I had to explain to my family. It was challenging to prove that I can turn my passion into a business. My family today is very proud.
What does the word notable mean to you?
The word Notable to me means noteworthy, respected, and hard working.
PLAY
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
I love Fiorellino – it is my new favourite hot spot! I love the ambiance and the food is fantastic. I highly recommend it if you’re in the mood for a fresh plate of pasta, pizza, or their famous mushroom appetizer.
What’s the most visited website on your Internet browser? The most played song on your phone?
The most visited website is my own, www.elladugre.com, and the most played song on my phone is Beautiful Life by Lost Frequencies.
Who’s one person you think everyone should be following on social media?
I think everyone should be following Montreal artist Antoine TAVA to see his amazing pop art and everything he does throughout the city of Montreal and abroad.
What’s your favourite country to visit and why? And what’s the next one you plan on travelling to?
I have a few favourite cities in different European countries. I absolutely love Barcelona and Amsterdam – they are beautiful, serene, colourful, and artistic cities. I often travel for inspiration and to find different things that can add elements of wanderlust to my pieces. The next place I plan to visit is Bali; I cannot wait to see what it has to offer.
What gives you the greatest FOMO?
Missing an important networking event and knowing that all my close friends in the industry are there!
What’s your guiltiest pleasure?
Movie binging. I could watch five movies in a row and be in total heaven.
And finally, what does success look like to you? Work, play, or otherwise…
Success to me is inspiring others and truly fighting for what you love and pursuing it. It’s loving every day of your life and knowing that you’re living by your own terms and doing something great and fulfilling to you. Having amazing friends and family by your side makes the journey all the better.
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