Online Business

Starting my online business at age 9 selling handmade shark tooth necklaces, I have expanded and grown the business to design and sell 3D customizable topographical maps of hiking treks and 3D printed maps of colleges.

Founding

At age 9, I was dissatisfied with the shark teeth necklaces at my local museum. The teeth were too small and the necklaces did not focus on the tooth enough, so I decided to make my own. I bought the biggest shark tooth I could find and learned how to wire the tooth to fit onto a paracord necklace. I realized this was an item most kids would love, and I decided to invest my own $20 into buying 5 teeth to sell online. I opened an online Etsy shop with this necklace design and was ecstatic when I received my first order.

Philanthropy

Around this same time, I began volunteering with Surfers Healing, a nonprofit dedicated to helping children with autism. I loved their purpose so much I began sponsering children for their camp from the profits of my online business.

Expansion

With profits I made from selling these necklaces, I bought my first 3D printer and upgraded it to print in two materials. After designing a topographical map for myself, I realized this was another product people would be interested in, and posted the listing on my etsy shop for this new product "Philmont Map".

Website Development

To further expand this section of my business, I made the website Philmont Maps. With this online presence, I have been able to expand into my target audience with marketing and have grown the number of orders I receive.

Further Expansion

With this experience in 3D printing dual color prints, I began to design 3D maps of college campuses. I was able to gain more experience with product design and photography, as well as marketing strategies by learning how to market to college students and parents. I market these on Etsy as seen here.