Origami Owl is a jewelry company known for its customizable pieces, particularly the popular “Living Lockets” that allow customers to add charms and personal touches to their jewelry. Founded in 2010 by a 14-year-old entrepreneur, Bella Weems-Lambert, the company quickly gained popularity for its unique approach to jewelry design. Origami Owl operates as a direct sales company, offering individuals the opportunity to become “Independent Designers” and sell the jewelry through their personal networks. This article provides an unbiased review of Origami Owl based on feedback from current and former members, offering a comprehensive look at the company's strengths, challenges, and key points of consideration for potential members.
What is Origami Owl?
Origami Owl offers a range of customizable jewelry, including lockets, bracelets, and earrings. The company’s unique feature is its “Living Lockets,” which can be filled with small charms that represent different themes, making each piece highly personal. Alongside these items, Origami Owl also provides seasonal collections and partnerships with various designers and brands, keeping the offerings fresh and attractive.
The company functions on a direct sales model, allowing independent consultants, called “Designers,” to earn commissions on their sales. Origami Owl’s business model is appealing to those who enjoy selling products that are highly customizable and personal.
Pros of Becoming an Origami Owl Independent Designer
1. Creativity and Customization in Products
- Many customers are drawn to the ability to create personalized jewelry, which makes it easy for Designers to connect with buyers who want something unique and sentimental.
- According to one Designer: “I love that every piece tells a story. My customers enjoy creating lockets that represent their loved ones or special memories.” This unique selling point can help Designers attract a broad range of customers.
2. Flexible Work Schedule
- Like many direct sales companies, Origami Owl offers flexibility for its members, allowing them to set their own hours and work at their convenience.
- For individuals who prioritize work-life balance or want to work part-time alongside other commitments, Origami Owl provides an ideal setup. “I can balance my full-time job with Origami Owl because I work at my own pace. I can even host online parties on weekends without disrupting my schedule,” shared a Designer on social media.
3. Supportive Community
- Origami Owl emphasizes a community-driven approach, with mentorship and training resources available for new Designers. The company hosts regular events, both in-person and online, where members can learn sales techniques, get motivated, and share their experiences.
- A member on YouTube mentioned, “There’s a lot of support from the leadership and other Designers, which makes a huge difference. I never feel like I’m working alone.”
4. Opportunities for Income and Growth
- Designers earn commissions on their sales, with the potential to make bonuses based on performance and team-building efforts. This provides opportunities to grow within the company and potentially earn passive income through team-building.
- One experienced Designer commented, “There’s real potential to make good money if you put in the time. Origami Owl offers good rewards for top sellers and team leaders.”
Cons of Becoming an Origami Owl Independent Designer
1. Initial Investment and Inventory Requirements
- To get started, Designers must purchase a starter kit, which can be a financial commitment. For those with limited initial capital, this upfront investment may be challenging.
- Some Designers feel pressured to keep inventory on hand, which can add to their expenses. One member said, “I ended up spending more than I planned to keep popular items in stock. It’s hard when you’re just starting and don’t know what will sell.”
2. Market Saturation
- Because Origami Owl has been around for a while, there are many Designers in certain regions, making it more competitive to find new customers, especially in areas where the brand is already popular.
- As one Designer put it, “It can be tough finding new customers when everyone knows someone selling Origami Owl. I’ve had to get creative with my marketing and try different online strategies to stand out.”
3. Sales Dependence on Personal Network
- Like most direct sales companies, success with Origami Owl often depends on one’s personal network, at least initially. Designers who are less connected or uncomfortable with sales may find it difficult to build momentum.
- A member shared online, “I wish I had known how much I’d need to rely on my friends and family for sales in the beginning. If you don’t have a strong network, it can be slow-going.”
4. Unpredictable Income
- While there is potential for earning, income can vary significantly depending on sales and recruiting success. Designers may experience fluctuations in their monthly earnings, which might be difficult for those seeking steady income.
- “Some months are great, and others are slow,” said a Designer on a review forum. “You can’t always predict how many sales you’ll get, especially with all the seasonal products.”
Real Member Feedback Highlights
To give you a clearer perspective, here are some quotes from current and former Origami Owl Designers that reflect their personal experiences:
- On Customization and Customer Engagement: “Origami Owl allows me to connect with my customers in a special way. They love being part of the design process, which makes the jewelry more meaningful for them,” shared a member on Instagram.
- On Community and Support: “The team meetings and training sessions are amazing. It’s not just about selling jewelry; it’s about building confidence and feeling empowered,” said one Designer in a YouTube testimonial.
- On Sales Challenges: “I didn’t realize how much I’d have to market myself. You definitely have to be proactive and willing to put in the work if you want to see a return,” commented another Designer on a blog review.
Final Verdict: Is Origami Owl a Good Fit?
Origami Owl can be a great opportunity for those who enjoy creative sales and want to work flexible hours. The products are unique, with customization options that appeal to many customers, and the community aspect provides a supportive network. However, success with Origami Owl requires effort in marketing, and it may not be ideal for those uncomfortable with sales or relying on their personal network for income.
In Summary:
- Pros: Creative products, flexible schedule, strong community, potential for income growth.
- Cons: Initial investment, market saturation, sales reliance on personal network, unpredictable income.
Before joining, consider your comfort with sales, willingness to invest in inventory, and network strength. Origami Owl can be fulfilling for individuals ready to put in the time and creativity, especially those with a passion for jewelry and storytelling.