Name: Kelly and Katie Campbell
Ages: 29 (twins)
Location: Kelly lives in Denver, CO, and Katie lives in Dayton, OH
Education: Both have a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from University of Kansas
Job title: By day, Kelly sells tickets for the Colorado Rockies baseball team and coaches softball, while Katie works in event planning for a Christian sports ministry. By night, these twin sisters are the owners of Kellybeth Jewelry, a line of baubles made from recycled materials, proving that it’s possible to have a successful side gig while holding down other jobs.
What They Do: Although their roles overlap at times, Kelly originally came up with the concept of creating eco-friendly jewelry out of recycled credit cards or gift cards. She handles much of the design and day-to-day business, while Katie researches boutiques, helps out with production, and sells pieces to friends and co-workers who admire the jewelry. According to Kelly, “I probably spend at least 40 hours per week, but because it’s on the side, I’m always thinking about it and ways we can get into boutiques.” Kelly is currently preparing to attend a major trade show in September, and they both hope to devote more time to the company and perhaps go full-time later this year.
How They Got Their Gig: Says Kelly, “I actually made my first pair of earrings out of a credit card three years ago. When I moved to Denver, I spent more time on it. I would wear them and people liked them.” Kelly and Katie’s mom has a store, and she was the first to start carrying their jewelry line about a year ago. Since then they’ve branched out to boutiques spanning from Washington state to New York City. They’re often on the lookout for new markets.
Sister Act: Both sisters say they bring different strengths to their business. “I see the big picture but can break it down into steps,” says Katie. “I think it makes it a good combination for us.” According to Kelly, “we’ve had a couple of feuds as far as responsibilities, but it’s always better to have a partner than not. We know that we can trust each other. We’re working on the same goal.”
Mentors Matter: Soon after starting her business, Kelly realized she needed support and insights from other business owners, so she joined Ladies Who Launch. “Running your own business is so hard, and you feel isolated,” she explains. “I did an incubator [an intensive program for women entrepreneurs run by Ladies Who Launch], and I think my biggest thing is the connections. That’s been the biggest help for me: resources and ideas from other people. I can help them as well.”
Feel-Good Fashion: Many of Katie’s co-workers buy their jewelry and save gift cards or expired credit cards for her. “I get cards on my desk almost every day—it’s like a recycling program,” she says. “When I see women get really excited about wearing something fun and funky and eco-conscious, I love that. It’s such a conversation starter with other people. I’m proud that something as simple as jewelry can connect us with other women.”
This Job’s for You if: You’re persistent but still know how to make time for yourself. Slash careers (a full-time job plus a side gig or multiple gigs strung together) can be tiring but fulfilling. Kelly says, “I see why a lot of people give up on their businesses, but you need to push through the hard times. Something I learned from Ladies Who Launch is that you need to give yourself some time. Otherwise, you’ll just be stressed and crazy. I’m pretty tired, but I know when you believe in something it’s worth the craziness.”
