Entrepreneur Spotlight Series: Failing Fast and Failing Forward with Honeygrow & Jane Win Jewelry

On October 3, 2023, the John F. Scarpa Center for Entrepreneurship and Law welcomed entrepreneurs Justin Rosenberg and Jane Winchester-Paradis for the Center’s Failing Fast and Failing Forward seminar, which highlighted the challenges and lessons learned during the nascent stages of new businesses.

Justin Rosenberg is the Founder of honeygrow and Villanova Law’s inaugural Entrepreneur in Residence. After transitioning away from the finance world, he channeled his passion for plant-based nutrition into creating a brand that emphasizes wholesome, authentic dishes. Under his guidance, honeygrow stands as a testament to innovation and quality in the culinary world.

Jane Winchester Paradis is the Founder of Jane Win jewelry and current Entrepreneur in Residence at Villanova Law. Jane embarked on her entrepreneurial journey after two decades in fashion design and marketing. Her brand, inspired by coin jewelry from the 1900s, serves as a beacon of positivity, strength, and hope.

Both founders emphasized the value of making early mistakes in their entrepreneurial journey. These setbacks offered invaluable lessons that played a pivotal role in molding their brands and their approach moving forward. Jane and Justin attributed networking as a way in which they were able to learn how to avoid making the same mistakes. For Jane, seeking help developing a business plan was key. Both entrepreneurs stressed the importance of developing a comprehensive and realistic business plan as soon as possible. Additionally, continuous monitoring and refinement of the business plan and operations is critical to long-term success.

While Justin's interactions with external investors presented a contrasting perspective to Jane's self-financed venture, each funding avenue has its own distinct challenges and benefits. Justin's endeavor to introduce a spin-off brand encountered unexpected hurdles, underlining the market's volatile nature and the critical need for adaptability.

A shared challenge for both was the personal toll of managing customer service. Being deeply invested in their companies, dealing with customer feedback and criticism can be emotionally taxing. Both recognize the need for excellent yet objective customer service. Justin and Jane discussed the importance of devising the right pricing strategy to maintain the brand image, mission, and profitability.

The seminar offered students a look into the world of entrepreneurship and the struggles currently facing Villanova Law’s Entrepreneurs in Residence.To learn more about our Entrepreneur in Residence and the position, visit the Scarpa Center’s webpage.