Today we’d like to introduce you to Ayla L.
Hi Ayla, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I started my business, Madame Joli, in 2009. I’ve been into jewelry, fashion, and business since I was a child, I also liked painting as well; So I decided to combine the two and create hand painted jewelry. Initially I would make jewelry mostly for myself, then I started taking orders and getting a lot of custom requests, and that is how my business started! Overtime, the type of jewelry I create has evolved as well as my business itself. I rarely paint jewelry now, I’m really into using natural mediums like cowries and other shells, gems, beads, metals, etc; I also like to incorporate certain plants and flowers in my work as well.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There have definitely been ups and downs, but I just see it as a part of the process. I think as a creative, sometimes you have those moments where you have to recalculate and search for a spark of inspiration again, especially when you’re deeply connected to your work. Similar to writers block. I see those moments as a time of incubation, an opportunity to birth something new and unique.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I specialize in creating unique and on-of-a-kind hand crafted adornments! I like to create pieces that feel feminine, uplifting, meaningful, and stand out in a delicate way. Some pieces are for beauty, some tell stories.
In it’s infancy, Madame Joli was known for hand painted earrings. In more recent years, Madame Joli has been known for the signature cowrie earrings, particularly the hoops and triangles, and brass wrapped crystal pieces. What makes me most proud is the joy on people’s faces when they wear a piece that I created. A part of the mission of Madame Joli is to cultivate self-love through the art of adornment. So to see someone instantly (and literally) start glowing when wearing jewelry from Madame Joli is such a beautiful thing!
What sets me a apart from others, I think, are some of the out of the box ideas and designs I come up with, and the level of care and thought that I put into each piece. Also, my connection with my clients. I can look at someone and know exactly what to create, that will be perfect for them and their personality!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I would say just put yourself out there, be confident, be genuine, and believe in yourself. You never know who you might meet!
Pricing:
- $15 – $65
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.MadameJoli.com
- Instagram: @shopmadamejoli
