There’s nothing Booked Parties loves more than supporting the creative, energetic spirit of entrepreneurs. Recently, we are finding inspiration by setting our sights a bit lower…literally. A new crop of entrepreneurs are on the rise, but you won’t find them running their businesses between the hours of 9am to 3pm when school is in session. Gone are the days of paper boys and lemonade stands. Today’s young business owners are savvy beyond belief, successfully identifying niche business models and leveraging the power of social media in a manner that’s so natural to them, it’s staggering to us grown-ups. The children are clearly ready to lead the future.

Spotlight On: Dream Jewelry: Live, Love, Lila 

Many little girls dabble in jewelry-making. Fourth-grader, Lila Skolnick, however, is not most girls. Two years ago, she took her passion for jewelry design and turned it into a business. Dream Jewelry: Live, Love, Lila was created. The business’s rainbow-hued logo is reflective of the candy-colored beading that distinguishes her collection. The line’s earrings, bracelets and necklaces feature sweet beading and motivational messages that her peer group is layering on!

We sat down with this young entrepreneur to learn more.

What makes your line special?

Every bracelet, necklace and earing is completely homemade! I create each piece from start to finish using some of my favorite brands and materials from A.C. Moore. My favorite design in the collection is the diamond star bracelet.

How did you learn to manage your own business? 

I do everything on my own from creating to selling the jewelry – everything is sold locally. It’s totally a word of mouth business. People email me directly at lilaskolnick@gmail.com with requests. My mom helped by teaching me how to create a spreadsheet to track sales. I also donate 15% of all proceeds to local animal shelters because I just love animals!

How do you balance running a business with all of the other activities involved in just being a kid?

I make all the jewelry in my spare time and use a calendar so that I can plan ahead.

Are there any challenges you experienced along the way that you didn’t anticipate and, if so, how did you handle them?  

I once bought the wrong type of cord and all of my bracelets broke! I had to buy more cord and remake every one of those bracelets.

What advice can you give other kids looking to become “mini movers & shakers”?

Follow your dreams!

What do you want to be when you grow up?

There are so many options! I could be a jeweler, but also an author or a doctor!

Shauna Levy is a writer, communications professional and a stay-at-home mom.  Her interests include flaunting her discount shopping finds, cooking food her children reject and restoring her 125-year old home.  She is currently raising three boys, ages 9, 6 and 5 alongside her husband in Chappaqua, NY.