Check Out Allison Hagen’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Allison Hagen.

Hi Allison, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was gifted a pile of beads and string when I was only 13 years old, and I began teaching myself to make beaded earrings. I began to experiment with different styles, colors, and a variety of beads. I developed my designs by what I thought looked good and once I had made enough stock, I sold them around town. As I began selling more, I paid attention to what people liked and what styles were trending. I began to develop more skills and played around with even more materials! I looked at trends and based designs off of that. I went through some personal trials and tribulations, so I lost my desire to make jewelry. I didn’t make jewelry for several years. I went to college, worked, and eventually built up a career in management. Back in 2019, when Covid started, I lost my job due to the shutdowns, so I picked up and dusted off my beads and tools. I started exploring new techniques and materials, such as polymer clay and fabric. I developed my skills and fell in love with Jewlery making again. I have since explored and practiced numerous techniques with various materials and developed my niche of designs. Since, I have created and registered my LLC under the business name of “Moon and Oak Company”. I built my website and Shopify store and am more motivated than ever to build my brand and design.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Designing and making jewelry has not always been a smooth road. From the beginning, I have always had limited space to create. I would sit on the floor in the corner of my small bedroom making things. I eventually lived in an apartment and was able to have a bigger craft area but still limited. I have always worked in small areas but have made the best of what I had. Despite the limited space, I made lots of merchandise to build enough stock to open up my very first booth in a thrift shop. Another obstacle i have encountered is coming up with designs that sell, acquiring the skill, and making things that are quality takes a lot of practice. There have been designs that I have dreamt up in my head and they came out like an utter “Pinterest fail”. Failures bring a lot of discouragement, wasted materials, and time. I will sometimes get so excited about a design and find it does not turn out like I expected. Designing things that not only are appealing to the eye but will also provide a lasting quality piece that does not fall apart, or break is the most challenging part of jewelry making. Wasted materials from failed design attempts can also be costly. I never took out loans or business grants for start up cost. Granted being gifted a few materials at 13, I have acquired much more materials and pricey tools to be able to expand my skill set and merchandise. I would take extra money I had left after bills to acquire new tools every now and then. Failure in manufacturing is not the end of the struggles. Opening up an LLC and acquiring the right tools to run a business has been a learning experience. Since starting my business, I still have worked a full time job so not only finding time and energy after working 40 hours a week but also finding ways to effectively and efficiently run my business to be able to get it off the ground. I didn’t hire any marketing experts, or logo designers, or website builders to do the work for me. I built my website from the ground up, learned and am still learning how to market my business, and obtaining many other things that go along with running a small business.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a passionate small business owner, I pour heart and creativity into every piece of handmade jewelry I create. Specializing in beaded and polymer clay designs, I’m known for my original, one-of-a-kind styles that reflect both artistry and individuality. Many of my pieces are truly unique—sometimes the only pair in existence—making them as special as the person who wears them. My work stands out not just because of the craftsmanship, but because it carries the essence of who I am: bold, thoughtful, and deeply connected to the art I create. Every design tells a story, and it’s my commitment to quality, creativity, and authenticity that sets me apart in the world of small business and handmade jewelry. I also enjoy taking orders for custom designs so i can make my customer feel part of the design process and to create something that is meaningful and tailored to their story!

I’m incredibly proud of the journey I’ve taken with my jewelry business and how far I’ve come. What started as a creative passion has grown into a thriving brand that reflects my dedication, vision, and drive for excellence. My jewelry business sets me apart because it’s built on authenticity, intentional design, and a genuine connection with my customers and community. I bring warmth, honesty, and a strong work ethic to everything I do. I’m detail-oriented, dependable, and consistently focused on growth, not just for my business, but for myself as a person. I take pride in being personable and approachable, building lasting relationships with my supporters by treating them like family. It’s this combination of creativity, character, and care that truly distinguishes my brand in the jewelry industry. My biggest goal with my business is to inspire as many people as possible to be themselves, chase their dreams, and never give up.

What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned through building my business is that growth often comes through failure, and true success is built on perseverance. There were times when things didn’t go as planned—when I felt discouraged or unsure—but those moments taught me resilience, patience, and the importance of staying committed to my vision. I’ve learned that every setback is an opportunity to learn, improve, and come back stronger. Through hard work, faith in myself, and a refusal to give up, I’ve turned challenges into stepping stones and have grown not only as a business owner but as a person. This journey has shown me that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress, passion, and the willingness to keep going no matter what.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://moonandoakcompany.myshopify.com
• Instagram: moonandoakcompany
• Facebook: moonandoakcompany