I’m so excited to share with you my friend and jewelry designer Rachael Byers. Her line, Rachael Ryen Jewelry, has literally taken off in the last few months and has already been featured on Yahoo.com, Southern Living Magazine & NY Daily News…just to name of few! I sat down with Rachael to get the inside scoop into her process, what she was doing before launching her own line & just what inspires her!! Keep reading for your chance to win a great prize from her online store!
You weren’t always a jewelry designer, so what were you doing before you started your own company?
Before designing jewelry I worked in corporate as a Customer Experience consultant where I developed programs to increase customer satisfaction. Possessing a certain level of expertise around this subject matter has been exceptionally wonderful in terms of building relationships with my retail and wholesale clients.
How did you decide to take the leap of faith to start your own company?
Initially, making jewelry started as a hobby, creating pieces for friends and then selling to a handful of local boutiques. That real “leap of faith” moment came when my fiancé received a job offer here in Boston. The company I worked for wasn’t open to the idea of me working remotely so I knew a change was imminent. It was actually my fiancé who pushed me to take on the jewelry full time and so I drew out a plan of what that would entail. As we settled into life in Boston everything sort of fell into place and Rachael Ryen became my full time job.
What was the hardest part about leaving your career?
There’s definitely a perceived security when you have a corporate job, knowing you can count on a steady paycheck. I would say that along with having a marketing department, legal team, IT support and several other teams to help accomplish your objectives. I am all of these things now and the workload can be a bit much. I definitely had a better work/life balance before, but it’s something I’m working on.
What’s a typical day like for you? How do you find the time to fit
everything in?
I don’t really have a typical day,
except that I always start with coffee and checking emails. Sometimes my days
start at 4am on a Skype call with stone cutters across the world. Other days
I’m filling press requests for samples or responding to boutiques with
information on the line. I also travel quite a bit to trade shows and New York
City. When you run your own business there is always something to do and no two
days are ever the same, which is what I love!
What is your favorite part about being your own boss?
I really enjoy the challenge of looking at a problem or
opportunity, making a decision, and truly being accountable for my actions. It
is a pretty powerful feeling. I’ve also learned more than I could have ever
hoped for in this past year and a half. It’s definitely not easy, but I
wouldn’t trade this time for anything. Everything I do during my day has an
impact on my business, and I see that. It’s really exciting.
Where do you find the inspiration from your pieces?
Quite literally, everywhere. I took
a picture of a napkin last week because I was inspired by the stitching. I
always look at the latest jewelry trends and then decide how to put my own spin
on it. The last two collections have utilized the baguette shape which has
become a bit of a signature look for me. I also look at vintage jewelry pieces
constantly and find design aesthetics that I’ll integrate into my designs as
well.
You are getting married this year, so will you be wearing your own collection at your wedding this
year?!
Of course! I’m actually planning on
using my wedding as a means of introducing an extension to my line specifically
designed for brides. The earrings and necklace I design for myself will be part
of a 10 piece Bridal capsule collection that will be introduced this fall.
Can you take us, in layman’s terms through the process of design
to physical product?
Sure! Every design starts with a
concept sketch. Think of this as a messy doodle and usually I’m the only person
who can decipher what it is. I’ll take the concept sketch to a technical design
which is 4 parts; front, back, side views with very detailed measurements of
the piece. That technical sketch is turned into a CAD drawing and sent back to
me for approval. Once I approve the design it goes into production. The CAD
design is used to 3D print a model of the piece which is then used for casting.
While the casting process is happening any stones used in the piece are being
cut. Once everything is complete, the stones are set and the piece is finished.
What do you think makes your jewelry stand out?
My collection offers something for everyone, but I’d say the quality and price point are two aspects that definitely differentiate my line from others. I love creating pieces that look a lot more expensive than they really are.
What can we expect from the Rachael Ryen collection in 2015?
I’m focusing on expanding into more boutiques across the US to give customers beyond Boston places to shop for Rachael Ryen in person. On the design front, this year I plan to continue offering versatile pieces that can take you from office to happy hour. I’ll also be adding some edgier pieces and, of course, launching a bridal collection later in the year.
What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?
Starting the journey to owning a
business isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s more work than you could ever
imagine. Make sure you choose something that you’re truly passionate about
because you will eat, sleep and breathe it for years. Talk to others who have
already journeyed down the path you want to take. Ask a LOT of questions.
Listening to the stories of other entrepreneurs is critical for your sanity.
All too often we are bombarded with the faces of overnight success which can
leave you feeling like you’re “missing” something. It’s those individuals who
are willing to tell the messy side of this, details of mistakes…those are the
people that help you realize you’re normal and you’re not supposed to have all
the answers.
I love to read quotes and even have an entire Pinterest board dedicated to them, so I have to ask, what is one quote you live by?
“Everything you want is on the other side of fear.” – Jack Canfield
Do you have a major wishlist item at the moment?
Ordinarily I’d say it would be an order from Bloomingdales, but after all this snow I’m craving a vacation somewhere warm!!!
What has been your most inspired moment thus far?
I was at my first trade show last
October when I met the jewelry buyer for a national retailer. At first I had no
idea who she was, we were just talking about the line, pricing and materials.
Then she introduced herself and asked for samples. It was the beginning of my
first big order. I can’t tell you how rewarding it is to have something like
that happen…it really validated my decision to take the leap of faith and commit
myself to the line full time.
If you could have dinner with any woman in the world, who would it
be and why?
Sara Blakely of Spanx. She’s an incredibly inspiring
business woman and I’d love to ask her about her journey including the types of
hurdles she faced along the way and what advice she has for entrepreneurs who
are early in their journey.
And finally…what are three things you never leave home without?
My cell phone, jewelry, and lip gloss.
You’ve seen a few of the pieces in the line strewn through the post, but now is your chance to win a $50 gift card to Rachael’s online shop! Enter the giveaway below for your chance!
If you could take the leap of faith to be your own boss, would you?
xo,
She definitely has some amazing pieces!! I definitely saw at least one ring, necklace, earrings and bracelet that I liked out of just your pictures alone!
Thanks for sharing this Biana! I loved reading about her journey and it definitely takes guts to leave a corporate job for sure. She's definitely inspriring!
Happy Tuesday!
xoxo
Karen
kensingtonwest.me.uk
So inspiring and such beautiful jewelry! I love those hexagon necklaces.
I saw Rachael in Southern Living and was obsessed with her jewelry! I love the pieces you have selected; just went to check them out. Also love her story! I would definitely be my own boss if I could! 🙂 xo
It's all so beautiful! How would I ever choose? I think what I definitely need is the Micro Pave Bar Necklace in gold. I actually hadn't heard of Rachel before so thanks so much for sharing!!
Wow she has some amazing pieces!! I think it would be amazing to start my own company but like her, I'd be terrified to lose that sense of security a corporate job gives you. Kudos to her for taking the leap though It definitely paid off!!
Rachael's line is gorrrrrrgeous! And she's so brave + cool for striking out on her own. Loving the pave drop pendant!
Great feature, lady!
-Ashley
Le Stylo Rouge
Such gorgeous pieces and also very inspiring! I love hearing about the design process and also the process of starting your own business.
So many beautiful pieces! I love that she took the leap of faith to start her own company! How scary but so rewarding! My favorite piece is rectangle pave bangle bracelet.
Love all these pieces especially the rings. I've been wanting a nice dainty ring to wear daily. Shes definitely an inspiration to work at her passion as she has. I wish her all success!
Absolutely gorgeous pieces! Her leap of faith definitely paid off, I would love to have any of the pieces you pictured above. I especially love the pave drop necklaces in turquoise and lavender 🙂
Wow, what a fascinating woman! I admire everything that she's doing and what she stands for – I can relate to her on a lot of levels. Her jewelry is gorgeous, I think I'd love one of her bar or stone pendant necklaces!
What a beautiful line, I would most likely go with earrings. The Trillion Triangle Studs in Aqua Chalcedony are stunning.
These types of posts are always my favorite! So excited to find out about a pretty new jewelry line! The baguette cuff is calling my name!
Her pieces are absolutely stunning!!!! Yeah for highlighting female entrepreneurs!!!! She is amazing. I am obsessed with all her delicate pieces but love those long necklaces!
Her jewelry is absolutely gorgeous! I'm in love with those rings! Thanks for this post – I always love to see what entrepreneur's 'typical days' are like 🙂
yahh! great giveaway! i follow her on instagram and i love love her gold sunburst necklace and baguette gold bar necklace. xo jillian – cornflake dreams
Wow she sounds so passionate! What a rewarding job! Her jewelry is absolutely gorgeous!! Fingers crossed on the giveaway!
<3 Shannon
Upbeat Soles
These pieces are so pretty, and it's always nice to know more about the lady behind the designs.
prosecco in the park
So pretty, I love them all! The necklaces are especially pretty. It was nice to learn more about the designer/your friend too. I'm with her on the beach vacation too!! Haha. Hope that you are having a good day so far too lady! 🙂
Love this post and all the jewelry- the studs and rings are my favorite!! xo
What beautiful designs! Guess I have to go shopping!
What beautiful jewelry! Those stones are gorgeous!! Thanks for introducing me to such a lovely new designer!
Xoxo,
Whitney & Blaire
Peaches In A Pod
I would love one of those long pendant necklaces! She has gorgeous stuff!
-Lauren
prettypiecesblog.com
Gorgeous jewelry, I love the cuffs!
Style by Avery
B what a great feature and hearing what Rachael had to say about jumping out of your comfort zone and taking a leap is exactly what I need to hear right now! I found myself loving every piece in this post and on her website more than the next, but would have to say I'm loving the arrowhead pendants and the green onyx gemstone pendant. Gorgeous!
I love the stud earrings – especially the moonstone ones.
Her jewelry is so beautiful! I saw so many pieces I liked just in this post – I can't wait to checkout her website!
Love this, so cool to learn more about women entrepreneurs! Her jewelry is beautiful!
What a great post B! I love the elongated octagon necklaces. Works for day or night!
Wow- what a dreamy collection! Those studs are absolutely b-e-a-u-t-i-f-u-l! Thanks for introducing her and this line! xo
Is it bad I was reading this post and secretly hoping there would be a giveaway at the end? 🙂 I love these posts and I've been loving jewelry lately so this is the best of both worlds. Rachael's work is so beautiful and she is definitely inspiring! The bangles are so pretty!
She is definitely a talented woman! What a great eye she has for putting great pieces together.
I love when you do posts like this. Such a great interview and your friend's jewelry is beautiful! Congrats to her!
Thanks so much for sharing this! Such an interesting story and such an awesome story behind the company. I always love hearing about the person or face of a company! The jewelry is gorgeous!
Denise
fashionloveletters.com
Her pieces are gorgeous and just my style! I think I would want one of all the pieces pictured! haha. Thanks for introducing her jewelry! I love the earrings and rings the most, I think.
Her pieces and line are SO pretty! I definitely need some in my life!
xo Kylie
dressinsparkles.com
Such an incredible interview, and we're in love with her pieces!! Wow, we can't imagine how incredible it must feel to go for something and see it succeed!!
xx 365Hangers
loved reading this post, had no idea starting a business was so hard, though i guess i have never really thought about it because i dont have anything i am super talented or passionate about – good for her for finding something she loves! some of these pieces are absolutely stunning!
Such a great post! I love all of her designs and those necklaces are fabulous!
~Samantha
goldcoastgirlblog.com/
This stuff is GORGEOUS! I'm going to check this out now! Such a great post! xo
Marianne
goodgirlgoneglam.com
Beautiful stuff & great interview. Thanks for sharing!
WOW, what beautiful pieces! I love the earrings!
I love reading about women who start their own businesses and take risks! I always find their stories so inspiring! Thanks so much for sharing Biana. This collection is exquisite! I especially love those blue and green earrings! So feminine and flattering!
taffetaandtulips.com
Those are beautiful pieces. Thanks for sharing this interview with Rachael.
Lisa
Daily Style Finds
How beautiful!!!! I cant imagine making such beautiful pieces… I'd wear it all!!!
Beautiful jewelery and I loved reading through this interview! I would love love love to own my own business one day. It is such a leap of faith and I know it is going to be a lot of work. I just wish I had a starting point figured out for myself, ya know?! It is so inspiring to read about other peoples journeys.
I love posts like this – what beautiful jewelry and great interview questions!
xoxo
Kaley
My Closet Life Blog
That star burst ring is so pretty! This was a fun interview to read 🙂
xx Sera | STARDUSTBOHEMIAN.COM
(IG: @TheStardustBohemian)
Such a great read! I love hearing how an entrepreneur (girl boss!) does it, and this is inspiring! I LOVE the triangle pave earrings! Gorgeous designs!
Her pieces are beautiful and I love hearing about people who chase their dreams and are successful! So inspiring <3
lovejoanna.com
Wow I love her pieces, and especially those intricate 'diamond' looking rings! Awesome designer 🙂
What an inspiring and talented businesswoman! Thanks for featuring her and sharing this great brand 🙂
WOW!! Her line is absolutely stunning, what beautiful pieces. Great interview gilr!
Wow her stuff is beautiful! Thanks for the giveaway! I really love the triangle studs!
amemoryofus.com
Wow, absolutely gorgeous pieces! Excited she's expanding beyond Boston!
Her jewelry is so gorgeous! I can't choose which I like more, I like them all!
Ally – Life as I know it
What a great interview, B! I can't wait to stalk her website, I can already tell I love Rachel's work from the images in the interview, she has beautiful pieces. Thanks for sharing! I would LOVE to win the rose cut amethyst ring, OR the lapis octagon drop necklace. Definitely not easy choices.
xoxo,
Meghan
Southern Belle Secrets
Love all of her pieces! I especially love the Micro Pave Bar Necklace in gold!
Her stuff looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing!
Melanie @ meandmr.com
Those pieces are absolutely beautiful!!
Love her jewelry!! So gorgeous!
Rachel's jewelry line is beautiful – I love many of the items that you shared! Great interview too, can't wait to see her bridal line! I'm sure it will be gorgeous too. Xo, Stephanie
Her jewelry line is beautiful – she completely deserves all the recognition she gets (: Thanks for introducing her to us!!!
– Deniz
dressedupdeniz.com
Congrats to her for her growing business and its recent spotlight! I love the different stones she uses in her necklaces and rings, the cobalt blue is my personal favorite 🙂
Mili
i can see why it's growing! the pieces are beautiful!!
I love the Baguette Cuff Bracelet!
I love the triangle pave opal necklace!
I love all of these pieces! So gorgeous!
These pieces are all so gorgeous! I want everything!
God bless,
xo, Claire
Http:// littlemissfashionqueen.blogspot.com
Rachael's rings are stunning. I am looking forward to her bridal line. Her pieces are simple and elegant.
I could definitely see myself being my own boss someday. I think when I'm ready to have a family I'd be ready to work for myself as well. 🙂
ok seriously 1. all of that jewelry is so gorg – there's no way i could pick just one of my favs. and 2. i'm a terrible commenter. better late than never! xo
cheshirekatblog.com
chenlina20160324
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