Lifestyle

Justin J. Allen: The Ability to Find Business Opportunity in Everything

Published

3 years ago

September 7, 2021

Recently, we had the unexpected pleasure of sitting down with one of our favorite entrepreneurs on the scene today, Justin J. Allen. For those of you just now hearing about Justin, he founded his first LLC back in 2013, in the world of executive security services, and has since managed to build it into an uber-impressive multi-million-dollar company. Not only that, but Allen also now helms a successful sports agency, in the form of DA Method Sports Agency, a related fitness clothing brand, DA Method Apparel (along with his business partners Darryl Wilson & James “AJ” Mason), and is preparing to launch his own barbershop, Premier Cutz, and adjacent bar, the Premier Lounge.

And in our little sit-down, when we asked him what his secret skill was, Justin correctly pointed at the ability to “find business opportunities in everything”. And judging from his impressive catalogue of successful business ventures, we can safely say he wasn’t kidding. While it’s true that the very concept of entrepreneurship speaks of versatility and adaptability, it’s still rare to find an entrepreneur with so many successful businesses in so many different areas of work. So, it’s fair to assume Allen does indeed possess a sixth sense for sensing business possibilities, one that he’s keen on sharing with young entrepreneurs in need of guidance.

According to Allen, he’s always been an entrepreneur at heart, though naturally, he too went through his fair share of disappointment, bad jobs, professional conflicts, and so on. And during that time, as well as in the first years of his career as an entrepreneur, he learned the importance of having a role-model. Someone there to guide you and steer you in the right direction. Not tell you where to go, because at the end of the day, being an entrepreneur isn’t about that, but rather, about finding your own values and your own path.

That’s what Allen is now looking to do for young entrepreneurs in need of a mentor – provide a helping hand, a word of advice, or even some guidance. And while a sixth sense for business opportunities can’t really be grown, it can be nurtured and developed, under the careful, watchful eye of an experienced mentor like Allen. It’s one thing to realize what businesses have potential and which don’t, and it’s nothing short of remarkable. Still, that’s not all a young entrepreneur will need to succeed in this world. They will also need help identifying what matters to them and finding their true entrepreneurial path.

Now, having established multiple successful businesses of his own, Justin J. Allen is in a place from which he can focus on giving. Naturally, he confided in us, he’s still got his eye on his own development and journey as an entrepreneur, but he has also reached a place in his career where he can help other individuals start their own business, and why not multiple businesses, like him. To show them, perhaps, that yes, entrepreneurship is a hard road, but that’s one of the things Allen loves best about it.

“Your level of success depends on you and how much work you put in. You can create your own schedule. You can decide what business you want to create; you have the ability to provide opportunities for people, The challenge is to stay current with the times.”

Lifestyle

Kristien Surya Jewelry: A New Standard in Affordable Luxury Jewelry

Published

1 day ago

December 19, 2024

Michelle Langton

Photo credit: Kristien Surya Jewelry

Byline: Sarah Kingston-Powell

Kristien Surya Jewelry combines cultural heritage with contemporary design from its Newport Beach headquarters. Launched in November 2023, the brand draws from Western, Indian, Chinese, and Islamic design elements. The signature pieces include the Hamsa hands collection with natural gemstones and the organically shaped Sunyata series, both crafted in sterling silver, solid 14K, and 18K gold.

“Each piece tells a story of cultural connection through carefully selected materials and meaningful symbolism,” says founder Kristien, who bootstrapped the company as its sole angel investor.

Social Impact Through Accessible Pricing

Despite its recent launch, the brand experienced significant early success, reflecting strong consumer interest. With global shipping and plans to expand its reach, Kristien Surya Jewelry is poised to attract an international audience that values culturally meaningful and socially responsible luxury.

While fine jewelry typically commands premium prices, Kristien Surya offers installment payment options and competitive pricing without compromising materials or craftsmanship.

A portion of sales supports the National Pediatric Cancer Association’s Sunshine Project, which develops non-toxic cancer treatments for children. Proceeds also help fund education and fair wage initiatives for women and children facing economic hardships.

Sustainability and Customization Focus

The brand’s ECO-LOVE Program incorporates lab-grown gems alongside natural stones, addressing growing consumer interest in sustainable luxury goods. Market research from McKinsey indicates that 73% of millennials are willing to spend more on sustainable brands.

“We select natural gemstones and crystals not just for aesthetics, but for their unique properties that promote emotional and spiritual well-being,” Sun explains. Customers can personalize their amulets by choosing specific gemstones, creating individual meaning for each piece.

Market Strategy and Growth

Currently serving North America through its e-commerce platform, Kristien Surya plans to expand to additional online marketplaces. “Our goal is more than about selling jewelry—we’re building a brand that celebrates diverse cultural heritage while making fine jewelry accessible to more people,” says Kristien. The company maintains a strong social media presence on Instagram and Facebook to engage with customers and showcase its cultural influences.

Kristien Surya Jewelry sets itself apart with its focus on cultural inspiration, sustainability, and social impact. Leveraging digital platforms like Instagram and Facebook, the brand aims to foster a vibrant online community. Special promotions, such as Blind Box Gifts for early followers, enhance its engagement strategy.

Design Philosophy and Production

Each collection draws inspiration from specific cultural elements: Western philosophical traditions, Indian spirituality, Chinese harmony concepts, and Islamic artistic patterns. The manufacturing process combines traditional craftsmanship with modern production techniques to maintain quality while achieving competitive pricing.

The Hamsa hands collection features double gemstone settings—an innovation within its price category. Production standards match luxury specifications: all pieces undergo multiple quality control checks and come with authentication certificates.

Future Developments

Kristien Surya plans to introduce new collections quarterly while maintaining its core design philosophy. The company’s near-term objectives include expanding its online presence and developing additional customization options for customers.

The brand recently began developing partnerships with retail locations in major U.S. cities, though specific details remain private. Current data suggests strong market potential for culturally-inspired fine jewelry at accessible price points, particularly among millennial and Gen Z consumers who prioritize meaning and value in their purchases.