Today we’d like to introduce you to Landon Lacey.
Landon, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I began making jewelry at 16 years old in 2002 when a mentor of mine – who is a fabulous artist in her own right – taught me how to make glass beads using a small torch and glass rods. I loved watching the glass melt into bright red globs as I formed the beads on my mandrel; however, when they cooled and hardened, they were less than beautiful. I still enjoyed learning how to string them together and made the most out of my “special” beads. I quickly learned that I loved the design process better than the manufacturing process, and began combining components to make pieces I could actually wear.
I took my jewelry hobby with me to college at Wake Forest in North Carolina where I fell in love with soft, southern pastels and pearls which I reflected in my jewelry. It was in college when I first began selling my work to friends and a few local boutiques.
After graduation, I moved to Thailand for a few years where I taught at a Thai school and volunteered in an orphanage (Agape Home). I fell in love with the delicate minimalism of the Thai style. I noticed how much attention to detail the Thai people poured into each piece of artwork, prepared meal, potted plant, and handmade bag. Everything they did had a natural balance – yin and yang. Their minimalism seemed effortless, so different from America. It was reflected in my jewelry. I began combining my pastels and pearls with delicate chains and minimal charms.
I returned from Thailand and eventually moved to Chicago – quite a change, but I’ve loved living here! Again, I was inspired. Chicago is a city of architecture, culture and art – my jewelry went raw. I fell for rougher gemstones, sharper spikes, shinier gold, longer necklaces, and edgier designs.
What you see in my jewelry is a reflection of these three inspirational locations: North Carolina, Thailand and Chicago. Sometimes I wake up and feel like a southern girl, and my jewelry goes pastel. Other days I feel the heartbeat of the city and I grab for my raw gems. Every day I feel delicate and minimal – a testament to the Thai that continues to resonate within me. My travels have been my main inspiration for all of my art!
Has it been a smooth road?
The growth of Landon Lacey Jewelry has been a journey. At heart, I’m an artist, not a businesswoman! I began making and selling jewelry at such a young age that I didn’t know what an LLC was, or what sole proprietorship meant. I didn’t know I needed a separate business account or what QuickBooks could do for me. I didn’t understand advertising and marketing, why an email list is important, or how to keep track of repeat customers. Every single step of the way, I’ve gone through a learning curve, all by myself! Through an enormous amount of trial and error, Google, and the support of other small business owners, I’ve grown into an organized company with relatively smooth production.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I specialize in dainty jewelry with high quality materials at an affordable cost. I use real gemstones in my pieces, and all of my chain is either gold filled or sterling silver. I’ve spent years developing relationships with gemstone and precious metal dealers around the world, so I’m able to keep my prices low which translates to my customers. I love pieces that are simple but unique, a conversation piece that doesn’t take over an outfit but compliments it. My jewelry simultaneously feminine and strong, and I’m proud its ability to make a statement while maintaining its minimalism.
Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Chicago has been an amazing city for my business! Locally, I see a boost in business because I’m sold in boutiques and craft shows. I’ve been embraced by the local blogging community and love being able to develop relationships with influencers who are read in Chicago and around the world. Being able to partner locally has been important for my business, and also a ton of fun! I always learn something from the bloggers and influencers I meet. I also deliberately brand my line around the fact that I’m located in Chicago. It’s a powerful city that still feels a little novel in the fashion world. It seems like every fashion line boasts a base in New York or LA, so selling Chicago-based jewelry is a great branding opportunity. I recently shipped a large order to China because they were so enchanted with a Chicago-based jewelry line. Globally, it’s a really cool city to be based in!
Pricing:
- $20-60 pieces
- Free Shipping with code FREESHIP
Contact Info:
- Website: www.landonlacey.com
- Email: landon@landonlacey.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/landonlaceyjewelry/
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/LandonLacey/
- Other: Sign up for newsletter: www.eepurl.com/cwyDmn
@MGBphoto // mgbphoto.com
@MGBphoto // mgbphoto.com
Image Credit:
Katie Lamb Photography
MGB Photography
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