Today we’d like to introduce you to Lesley Arroyo.
Hi Lesley, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
For as long as I can remember, I have loved playing around with beads and making simple pieces of jewelry. In 2014, I was living in Austin, TX, and I decided to take a metalsmithing course at Creative Side Jewelry Academy. I immediately fell in love with the process and decided to start my own jewelry business. I opened an Etsy shop and also set up at an artist market every Saturday on one of the busiest streets in Austin – South Congress. I don’t think I sold much on Etsy at the beginning (or ever), but the market was always a success. In 2015, my husband and I moved to St. Petersburg, Fl, for his work. I applied for every market and did every market possible. It was a great spot to grow my little business. I am still so thankful for the support of the people in that area. A few years ago, we decided to make the move back to Charleston, SC, with our baby, Violet. I took some time off to focus on her, but I am easing back into jewelry life. My jewelry has evolved since Austin, thanks to online tutorials and a lot of trial and error. I am mostly working with sterling silver and turquoise, although I still enjoy some beads and brass. My website, FernwehDesigns.com, is where you will find the jewelry these days. Hopefully, you will also find me in person at some Charleston markets in the fall.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Running a small business solo is not easy. When I started, I didn’t know what I was doing, and sometimes, I still feel that way. Luckily other makers and small businesses have always been helpful when I am feeling unsure or overwhelmed. Social media is probably one of my biggest struggles as a small business owner. On one hand, it can be wonderful for exposure and growing your business. On the other hand, it can be extremely draining. I would prefer to spend all of my time making jewelry, but a lot of time is required to sell the jewelry. I take pictures, “model” in the pictures, edit the pictures, post them to my website and write product descriptions. Next, comes the posting on Instagram, where I hope people will see and like what I am making. I know a lot of people can relate to this struggle. Another big one has been balancing being a mom and a business owner. I know a lot of people can relate to this one as well. I have taken a few breaks since having my daughter. I think it just takes a minute to figure out the right balance for you and your family, but we are getting there.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My jewelry company is Fernweh Designs. Every piece is handmade and one of a kind. I mostly work with sterling silver and turquoise, but I also use some brass, beads, and other unique stones. I have a hard time making anything symmetrical, so I do a lot of mismatched earrings, different lengths and opposite stone combinations. I like to keep it funky. I also like to change it up, so I’m constantly dreaming up new designs. My best-selling pieces are probably my snake earrings. I’ve been making them for years and they have always been a hit. I normally don’t love making the same thing over and over, but I still love forming every snake. A lot of my inspiration comes from traveling. I have a mood board in my studio with pictures from places that I feel inspired by. This is helpful when I am feeling stuck. My stones are also a really important part of the design process. I pride myself on using high-quality, unique stones that I personally pick out. I use a lot of brightly colored stones or iridescent type stones. Anything that will make a statement!
What matters most to you?
My goal is to create pieces that make people feel beautiful and special. I am honored that anyone would want to spend their money on my jewelry and wear it. I’m so grateful to be able to do what I love and I hope that I can keep growing as an artist and businesswoman.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.FernwehDesigns.com
- Instagram: @Fernweh.Designs
