Meet LESLIE MCGRIFF | Self-Taught Jewelry Artist

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

Hi LESLIE, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an Artistic and Creative career because I’ve always found Joy in making Beautiful things. I have a Degree in Interior Design so creating an amazing and completely balanced space from a blank canvas is a feeling of total fulfillment. Moving forward to pursue a career in the Beauty industry as a Master Cosmetologist and Cosmetology Instructor, I was further able to express my freedom in creating Precision cuts, Beautiful Custom Hair colors and Eye-catching Styles…the priceless expressions on the faces of my wonderful clients meant the world to me! When the Pandemic occurred, I decided to direct my energy into an industry where I feel my creativity is needed, wanted and welcomed.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am most proud of the Exclusivity of my Business. I have seen so many wrist adornments and they just were not eye-catching to me. I’m not saying that each piece should be a huge statement piece. However, I believe your wrist should speak volumes even BEFORE you speak with your Mouth. If you have on an Elle Chase bracelet and no one says “Oh my God! Where did you get THAT?!” Then I have not accomplished my desired result as an Artist.

I pride myself on professionalism in every aspect of my business, It doesn’t matter if I’ve known you for 20 years or 3 1/2 minutes. My clients are not CUSTOMERS, they are my GUESTS and I am humbled and honored to serve them. I never want to become too busy to answer their calls or texts personally. Many businesses fail because they lack the ability to maintain professionalism which also speaks to your character and integrity.

I’ve learned most importantly to always respect and honor the gift God has given me. God has truly BLESSED THE WORK OF MY HANDS. It’s not everyday that we see a Black Woman start off as an Interior Designer, then transition to a Master Cosmetologist and Cosmetology Instructor and ultimately a Self-Taught and Published Jewelry Designer…God is BEYOND amazing and THIS is just the Beginning!!!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a food fanatic! I love trying different foods. If I’ve never heard of it, I’m definitely trying it! One of my favorite restaurants is the Polaris at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. It revolves, so while you’re dining, you’re seeing the amazing Atlanta Skyline. The Prime Rib and Lobster is to LIVE for and the ambience is amazing… Perfect date night.

Of course, we have to go to Ponce City Market and Atlantic Station. They’re literally like cities within a city. You see people from all walks of life…enjoying life. It literally gives you everything you need from shopping to dining to movie theatres. I had the most AMAZING vegan lasagna on Earth at Ponce City Market and a Lobster Rice to LIVE for at Atlantic Station! They are both fun experiences with picturesque views perfect for Tourists’ photos.

Of course, there’s ALWAYS poetry and live music on every street so we could just take our pick!!

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?
I definitely want to honor my late Grandmother, Lillie Chase. She was a Pillar of strength and was very instrumental in shaping my core values and beliefs in my early Childhood; She is the reason I established Elle Chase Accents, LLC. I wanted something Beautiful and Unique that embodies CLASS, from my packaging to my product and this represents very well.

I owe my Parents, Timothy and Lillian McGriff, the WORLD. They are my biggest supporters, believing in my vision for Elle Chase Accents in its infantile stage, even when I didn’t see the vision for myself. They always give honest opinions and constructive criticism to help me better Elle Chase Accents as a whole entity. I love them eternally. I am forever grateful and indebted to them.

I absolutely LOVE my clientele! Without their continuous love and support, Elle Chase Accents would not exist. They KEEP me on my toes with consistent design challenges in their custom requests. I am always honored and I welcome all of their amazing and creative ideas. We learn from each other…We’re ALL in this together!!

Website: https://ellechaseaccents.com/

Instagram: Elle_Chase_Accents

Facebook: Elle Chase Accents

Image Credits
All Bracelets Created by Leslie McGriff, Owner of Elle Chase Accents, LLC