Meet Lauren Alleyne | Jewelry Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Alleyne and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lauren, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I think overcoming the fear of the unknown and taking risks is extremely important when it comes to achieving your goals. Opportunities tend to appear at the end of your comfort zone. When I first started Lauren Alleyne Jewelry, I had no idea that I would be where I am now. I had goals when I first started, but with any business you create there is never a guarantee. I think what helped me persevere was the fact that I loved what I was doing, regardless of where it would take me. Taking risks is a lot easier when you’re passionate about your business. At the end of the day, you will never know what you can achieve until you at least try!

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I handcraft bold, chic, and eclectic bohemian glam jewelry for the bohemian city girl! I incorporate flashy eye-catching glam mixed with earthy natural elements, such as geodes, crystals and stones. I like my pieces to have that magical essence. I’m proud of myself for taking a risk in creating a life for myself doing what I love to do. Nothing makes me more satisfied than seeing my customers happy with something that I put my heart and soul into! Starting my business was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made, but it wasn’t always easy. There is a lot that goes into running a creative business, so I’ve had to wear many hats. It took a few years to really define my style and brand. Aside from making the jewelry, I had to learn about marketing, sales, photography, social media, branding, accounting, you name it, all while working a full-time job in Oncology! There are times where I felt like giving up, but then all of my hard work would have been in vain. During low points, I sought inspiration from other jewelry designers who were where I wanted to be, and I remembered why I started in the first place-because I absolutely love it! I want others to know that if you have a passion for something, you can absolutely succeed. Passion is the force that will keep you going.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It would be a busy week! First, I would take them to some popular tourist attractions like the aquarium, Martin Luther King, Jr. Historical museum, CNN center, and Fernbank, just to name a few. Depending on the season I would take them to a sporting event. Atlanta United games are always so much fun! Each day we would spend time in different neighborhoods around the city, like the Highlands, Buckhead, Midtown, Downtown, Old Fourth Ward. Dinner would include some classic Atlanta restaurants like Hal’s Steakhouse, Atlanta Fish Market, Mary Mac’s, and one of my favorite places, Eclipse de Luna. Lastly, I would show them the Atlanta nightlife by taking them to some of my favorite hangouts, like Pasha, The Garden Room, Gypsy Kitchen, and of course I’d have to show them the classic Johnny’s Hideaway! But there’s no way I could cover everything Atlanta has to offer in one week!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My mom has been my biggest fan and supporter since day one! Her encouraging words, advice, and insight has kept me motivated throughout my journey. She’s the reason I will never give up.

Website: www.LaurenAlleyneJewelry.com
Instagram: @laurenalleynejewelry
Facebook: www.Facebook.com/LaurenAlleyneJewelry