Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Kaplan. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Founder Sarah Kaplan established VUE by SEK to bring art out of the museum and into everyday personal expression. Sarah designs each piece from her studio in Charlotte, NC, drawing inspiration from modern art, centuries-old goldsmithing techniques, and her own family heirlooms. Her journey began after graduating from the University of South Carolina and working in a DC art museum, where she rediscovered her passion for creating jewelry.
Through self-teaching and goldsmith training, VUE by SEK evolved, starting with a drop earring collection and expanding to encompass earrings, necklaces, rings, cufflinks, and tux sets. Today, the brand’s jewelry continues to reflect Sarah’s love for modern art and her commitment to crafting pieces that are made uniquely for the creative spirit.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The early years of VUE by SEK were tricky. We had to deal with moving right around our launch time, trying to juggle other projects at the same time, not to mention the steep learning curve that comes with shifting career fields. Like any small biz, we had our ups and downs, especially with everything in 2020.
With shops and events shutting down everywhere, we had to switch gears. We decided to focus on our online community and improving the customer experience. Focusing on efforts turned out to be the best decision and allowed us to build relationships with a community that I’m really proud of.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m Sarah Kaplan, the founder and designer behind VUE by SEK. My work revolves around designing the curated collection of jewelry and running the day-to-day operations of the brand. Jewelry is my art form. Our art-inspired jewelry starts with me being immersed in art, whether that’s pouring through museum exhibition catalogs, visiting my favorite public art, or finding inspiration in the occasional family heirloom.
It is in this immensely creative space that the spark of an idea is formed, and the design begins to take shape. From there, the sketch and 3D models come to life and turn into art-inspired jewelry pieces that are uniquely VUE. What sets VUE by SEK apart is our dedication to meaningful craftsmanship, our desire to create unique art-inspired pieces, and our vast selection of one-of-a-kind natural stones featured in our drop earrings.
Each piece is meticulously designed, drawing inspiration from modern art, traditional goldsmithing techniques, and cherished family heirlooms. Our jewelry is made for the creative spirit—it’s jewelry you can feel good about as well: ethically made, nickel-free, and small-batched. These pieces are never inspired by a trend; we think of them as tiny objects of art curated for you and your view.
The best part about jewelry is how personal and meaningful it can be. That is the best feeling: designing something and finding out that someone treasures it as much as you enjoyed designing it. I’m most proud of how these pieces have become woven into our client’s favorite moments, special occasions, or their everyday go-to. Nothing feels better than hearing this from our clients.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
To be honest, I can’t narrow it down to just one favorite memory. As the oldest of five siblings, our home was vibrant, full of adventures, and, perhaps just a hint of healthy chaos as well. Whether it was memorable family trips or exploring our neighborhood, my childhood was filled with wonderful moments where art and creativity were always encouraged. Throughout my childhood, I can’t recall a time when I wasn’t immersed in creating or making jewelry.
Pricing:
- $52
- $60
- $68
- $95
- $350
Contact Info:
- Website: www.VUEbySEK.com
- Instagram: @vuebysek
- Facebook: @vuebysek
- Youtube: @vuebysek
Image Credits
Taylor Saya Shaw and Megan Easter
