Meet Trailblazer Jamie Kolodziej

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Kolodziej.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Jamie. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’ve always loved browsing through antique markets, thrift stores and flea markets – mostly, to find hidden gems to display in my home or to give new life to discarded jewelry. I started a small collection of vintage bolo ties, but especially loved one of them – it was feminine, floral and so different from my other bolos. A couple years ago, I was digging through a pile of vintage brooches and found a “so-ugly-it’s-cute” vintage cat brooch… but, the backing was broken. I purchased it anyway, thinking I could somehow upcycle it into a necklace and then, it hit me – bolo tie! And so, it began.

Since then, I’ve been working hard on my little Etsy shop to bring folks unique bolos and vintage treasures. My goal this year is to start vending at local markets and festivals around Atlanta. I hope to see you soon!

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of the hardest parts of this journey was putting myself out there to start selling. I started off making bolo ties just for myself and for friends, but my boyfriend was really the person that encouraged me to share my bolos with the rest of the world. Getting my website and Etsy shop up and running was pretty overwhelming and maintaining a stocked shop while balancing a full-time job has me hustling 7 days a week – but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The best advice I can give is to just take the leap and figure it out as you go!

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Sweet Tea Salvage – what should we know?
The bread and butter of my shop are bolos! I upcycle vintage brooches and pendants and have been known to use crystals, stones and antlers on occasion. Every bolo in my shop is one-of-a-kind since I source from vintage markets. I also carry a selection of vintage goods ranging from home decor, clothing and jewelry. I’m proud that my small business is founded on shopping ethically – every time you shop secondhand, you’re helping out the environment.

We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
Luckily, within the Etsy community, it seems women are really fueling the industry and making strides. But, as a woman working in corporate America and following her bolo tie lovin’ dreams on the side, I definitely have gotten vibes that this is just some sort of silly dream I could never pursue full time. The local vendor/maker community in Atlanta is a great support though – I’ve made lots of new friendships and connections that I’ve been super grateful for.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.sweetteasalvage,com
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweet.tea.salvage
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SweetTeaSalvage/

Image Credit:
Laura Pate Photography, Sweet Tea Salvage, Jamie Kolodziej

Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.