March is here, and with it comes a time to reflect, celebrate, and empower women. I am thrilled to embrace Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day (March 8th) by honoring the incredible contributions of women in my personal and business life.
I won’t lie—sometimes women can be the harshest, least supportive, and most competitive in areas where I need support the most: running a business, raising kids, and staying healthy. Maybe it’s because women have historically been held back and still have to work harder, leaving us with a chip on our shoulder and a “room for you means less room for me” mentality.
But when you find the right women? Holy shit—they can lift you higher than you ever imagined. I truly believe there’s enough success for everyone, and the only way to ensure that is by collaborating and supporting one another. Scarcity of success is just fear in disguise. Be fearless, and abundance will follow.
Carin Susann Designs wouldn’t exist without the incredible women at its core—my mom, sisters, friends, manufacturers, CAD designers, marketing team, finance gurus, it goes on and on. Among them is Anna Samsonova from Samsonova Consulting.
I met Anna through the Seattle Chapter of the Women’s Jewelry Association (before we lost her to Chicago!). At my first event, feeling completely new to the industry, Anna was the first friendly face I encountered. Over time, she became a familiar and welcoming presence, making those early steps into this world a little less daunting.
Things shifted the year I considered attending a large trade show. I mentioned it to Anna, seeking her advice, and was immediately drawn to her industry knowledge. Inspired, I officially hired her for strategy calls, marking the true start of my journey.
Anna wasn’t just a sounding board; she became a strategic guide, helping me navigate the challenges of starting a business with no industry background—just my gemological education. Her guidance offset every obstacle I faced.
People often say, "Just Start." For me, consulting with Anna was my "Just Start." But it didn’t stop there. She continues to guide me through industry nuances, challenges, and strategy, helping me grow, stay disciplined, and tackle new collections, trade shows, or business goals.
It feels fitting that when asked what she loves about her work, Anna says: "One of my favorite things is my monthly strategy calls, guiding and supporting my clients who are doing everything on their own." She’s in my corner.
So this month, we celebrate those who are in our corner—lifting us up, innovating, and pushing boundaries.
xx, Carin