I have been pretty excited to share today’s Designer File with you. I first “met” Jessica when I started reading her blog, Makeunder My Life. I then realized that holy moly… she designs fabulous jewelry as well and is also one of the creative minds behind Spring.  We have become friends and hope to meet next time that I am in Chicago. I am truly inspired by Jessica’s work ethics, value on life, love and business and so i was thrilled when she agreed to take time out of her hectic design life and interview for a designer file. I hope you enjoy!

What (or who) inspired you to start your own business?
Actually, I never set out to start a business. When I was 15-years-old, I was making ankle bracelets for myself at a pool and some ladies approached me and asked to buy them. I spent six hours making them ankle bracelets and earned $30. It happened so naturally, that I decided to continue to make jewelry and sell it to fellow students, teachers, and friends. And the rest is history!

Who is your favorite designer?
I don’t know if I have just one favorite designer. I would have to say my top picks would be Jeanine from Aphro Chic , Michelle Adams from Rubie Green, and surprisingly, Nicole Ritchie’s new jewelry line, House of Harlow. All of these designers have a crisp, modern vibe while still maintaining a pretty classic edge. Any of their pieces will still look fresh in years to come.

How do you define success?
I think success is finding the ability to design one’s life as they would like, while still being thankful and flexible during the bumps along the journey. Life will never be perfect, but if we discover our purpose and then begin to pursue that vocation, I believe we will discover joy and unforeseen blessings. In order to reach these goals, I think one needs to be brave and stay faithful during the darker moments.

How do you keep a work/life balance?
As a morning person, I strive very hard to maintain a quality of life that is in my personal best interest. Which means I generally work from 8:30-6:00 Monday through Friday. Sure there are exceptions to this every now and then, but overall I reserve my nights for fun, friends, and Erwin, my boyfriend. I find I am better able to stay motivated and energetic during the day.

What should we expect to see from Jess LC as your business grows?
Great question! In April you will see a very different Jess LC than you do now. Sure, most of our styles will carry over, but we will be launching a brand new collection with new techniques I’ve never done before with sterling silver pendants and a new logo and website. Even our colors will be getting a makeover. Out with the sage green and in with a bold coral. I intend to pursue PR for the first time, reach a broader audience, and really make a splash in on the jewelry scene. Of course my focus will be on continuing to develop an online clientele worldwide. It’s a lot of work to get everything ready, but the reveal will be quite dramatic.

Here are some of Jessica’s fabulous pieces!

I also have to give Jessica a huge shout-out for designing an amazing bracelet for me. If you have been reading along, you might remember the launch party for Clark + Walker Studio that i sponsored? I got in touch with Jess and she made the coolest bracelet for me. I wear it all the time! I just had to add this photo. It was tricky to photograph because of the crystal, but it is just perfect!

Thanks again to Jess and I hope you enjoyed this Designer File! Be sure to check out all of her goodies at Jess L.C.