What’s Your Creative Process Like — From Idea to Finished Piece?

My design process changes from piece to piece — and honestly, that’s part of the magic.

Most nights, I keep a sketchbook next to my bed. Once my brain finally quiets down from the day, that’s when the real ideas show up. Some of my most original designs have started in that half-awake, half-dream state. I’ve even woken up from actual dreams to sketch something before I forget it. (They’re not all good — but they’re always interesting.)

Inspiration is everywhere, especially in New York City. Architecture has always moved me — particularly Art Deco. One of my first designs was inspired by the Chanin Building, where my first office was located. I translated its lines and structure into a pair of earrings. That’s how I see design — not just as jewelry, but as interpretation.

Sometimes the inspiration is a vintage piece. Sometimes it’s a trend I want to reinterpret with edge. And sometimes, it’s a custom client whose dream becomes mine for a few weeks while I help bring it to life.

I sketch everything by hand first — and I’ll be the first to tell you, I am not a good artist. My first sketches usually look insane. I’m not trying to get the proportions perfect in the beginning; I’m trying to capture the feeling. The movement. The presence. The attitude of the piece.

It usually takes two or three rounds before something feels right. I’m extremely picky — down to fractions of a millimeter. I notice details that most people would never see. It’s both a gift and a curse, especially when working with handmade pieces. But that slight variation? That’s what makes something feel human instead of machine-made.

I’m incredibly lucky to work with CAD designers I’ve collaborated with for years. They understand my scribbles, my shorthand, and my obsessive notes. And when I feel stuck or unsure, I lean on other designers around me. Having a team matters.

One of my favorite stories: I was at a bar with a friend when a client called about designing an anniversary necklace. I asked a few questions, grabbed a napkin, used my wine glass as a stencil, and sketched the design right there. It was approved before I left the bar. It’s still one of the pieces I’m most proud of.

And here’s the truth — I never really know if a piece is “it” until I see it on someone else. When I put it on myself, I can’t see it clearly. I’ve stared at it too long. But once one of my girls puts it on, I see it through fresh eyes — like a customer would. That’s when I understand it.

I used to design with the “average woman” in mind when I was heavily focused on wholesale. Over time, that started to feel off. I was designing for sales instead of for feeling.

Now, I design for feeling.

I design with myself in mind — and women like me.

Intentional. Stylish. Unapologetic.

Because jewelry should never just be pretty. It should say something.