CCU Student Spotlight

My name is Chloe Bertolami, I’m a sophomore Business Management major concentrating in Entrepreneurship, and I’m from Point Pleasant, NJ. I have been making jewelry since 2020, but only recently started pursuing Silversmithing. Using Sterling Silver and PMC3 (clay that is kiln-fired into Fine Silver), I create 1-of-1 pieces incorporating Sea Glass and other found objects from the beaches in my hometown.  

How has your time at Coastal Carolina shaped your journey as a student and entrepreneur? 

My time at Coastal has played a huge role in shaping who I am today, both academically and as a small business owner. One of the things I appreciate most is being able to take a cross-disciplinary approach to my education. As a student in the Wall College of Business, I’ve also had the opportunity to take Jewelry & Metalsmithing classes at the Edwards College- which have been incredibly valuable for my creative development. I’m so grateful for my incredible metalsmithing professor, Logan, and the friends I’ve made in that class who constantly inspire me to take risks and encourage my artistic growth. Also, the Department of Marketing & Communications staff has played a pivotal role in my journey- opening so many doors and believing in me every step of the way. Coastal has given me the ability to mix business and creativity, and that’s been a life-changing combination for my personal growth and jewelry business.  

What is your favorite thing about CCU? 

The opportunities! Coastal is full of creative, entrepreneurial energy, and I’ve been able to explore so many passions because of that. From being involved with the CCU in Space Program, to selling my pieces at the Chant Markets on Prince Lawn, to Horticulture Club and participating in Marcomm Student Collective, to even getting professional photos taken in Hampton Hall- it's such a supportive place for students who want to build something. I really love that CCU encourages the student body to be multi-passionate and try everything. Take advantage of everything they offer! 

What’s a typical day like for you when you're preparing for a market? 

Market prep starts way before the actual day. Between classes, homework, and staying on top of everything as a full-time student, I spend nights designing, pricing, and restocking- basically turning my apartment into a full-blown studio- even soldering my silver outside on my porch (safely). Then, on the morning of the market, I’m up by 6 a.m., grabbing a gallon of Stok coffee, and heading out by 8 to snag the best setup spot. Throughout the day I get to see my good friends stop by to hang out but also meet so many new faces. After a long day of chatting, selling, and creating, I usually end up hauling 50lbs of my displays back home on the shuttle. It is so chaotic and exhausting- but so fulfilling.  

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to other students who want to start their own business? 

Find your niche. Then eat, sleep, breathe it. Think about it when you’re tying your shoes, when you’re walking to class, even when you’re on the golf course. You must believe in your niche and your talent so hard that it becomes second nature to think and talk about it. People should get tired of how much you mention it because your niche is built into every part of you. I spend every moment of my free time making jewelry, updating my website, and creating content for my social media pages. Fully immersing yourself in all aspects of your specialization makes your business stand out; everything else just falls into place.  

I would also like to say thank you to my family, who’s never stopped supporting all my crazy endeavors since I started in 2020; I am so lucky to have you in my corner.  

Best,

Chloe