Meet Katie Littlefield: Founder & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Katie Littlefield and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After graduating from SMU in Dallas in 2006, I moved to Japan, which kickstarted my career and passion for gifting. Once the financial crisis hit New York in 2007, I knew my Asia adventure was just beginning. I moved to Shanghai in 2008 and my career quickly flourished, by 24, I was Head of Marketing for British financial services firm in Shanghai and enjoyed socializing with the leaders in China’s international entrepreneurial scene. To this day, I still believe that there is no better place to build a business than in Shanghai, the cities’ entrepreneurial spirit oozes, it is truly a place of big ideas. I quickly wanted in on the start up action and at the same time, to exercise my branding and marketing skills. The business started as an experiment in creating a brand. At the same time, I fell in love staying in touch with friends and family through gifting pearl jewelry I personally designed at the markets. I knew bringing the two hobbies together would be the perfect business model.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Where does one even begin when starting a business in a foreign country with a language barrier? Let’s just say that I learned some valuable lessons on my journey. Finding my first business partner who shared my goals and passions, and whose company I enjoyed was a big plus. After a long day at a full-time job in a country that presents ongoing frustrations, I needed the business to be enjoyable. It was key to staying motivated and to overcome challenges including language, being a foreigner, navigating a 13 hour time difference, and putting in the Saturday and weeknight extra hours. My formula for success included applying skills acquired through previous work experiences in new and creative ways, the willingness to learn new skills, the ability to set goals and stick to a timeline, and the patience to persevere until my vision became a reality. It was also important to admit that some skills weren’t easy for me (aka accounting, quality control) and ensuring that customer service is in place before an order is placed. It is all about enjoying the balancing act, managing responsibilities, and keeping a positive attitude.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The perfect weekday afternoon visitng The Getty Center, LACMA, and Hamilton Selway for creative inspiration. Nothing is more beautiful than dinner at Malibu Farm, Rosewood Miramar Beach Montecito complete with drinks for a night out with the girls. For a relaxing afternoon in Santa Barbara, I would hop by Municipal Winemakers, Paradise Springs Winery, and Pali WIne Co.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The business and brand Hazel & Marie, is named after my beloved great-grandmother Hazel, known for her strong will, sense of style, and collections of classically crafted antiques and jewelry. But Hazel represents the plethora of entrepreneurial women in my family including my mom, aunt, and many other women who have paved their own way.

Website: https://hazelandmarie.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hazelandmariepearls/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hazel-&-marie
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Hazelandmarie
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HazelandMariePearls