In this episode of Hamptons BossMoms Conversations, host Kim Lenar-Ehrhardt interviews Anita Somayaji, a jewelry designer and mom of two who moved to the Hamptons during the pandemic and started her own business. They discuss Anita's journey into jewelry designing, her unique and personalized pieces, and her experiences working with clients, including influencers like Katherine Schwarzenegger. They also touch on the challenges and joys of being a mother while growing a business and adjusting to life in the Hamptons.
Anita shares that she initially worked as a jewelry buyer before realizing she had ideas for pieces that didn't exist. She began sketching and bringing her visions to life, finding joy in the process. Her signature pieces are pendants that are both personalized and double-sided, featuring fine metals like 14 Karat or 18 Karat gold, platinum, and gemstones such as diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. She explains the story behind her first pendant, which commemorates the birth of her son and incorporates his astrological signs and birthplace coordinates.
Anita's business grew organically through word-of-mouth, with requests from friends, family, and even an editor from Harper's Bazaar. She expanded her designs beyond pendants to include rings, often incorporating personalized elements for her clients. She enjoys the process of working one-on-one with clients, helping them choose and source stones, and bringing their ideas to life. Anita emphasizes the importance of durability in her jewelry, as she believes they can be handed down for generations, and she personally wears her pieces every day.
Kim and Anita also discuss the accessibility of Anita's designs, noting that some pieces on her website can be directly personalized, while others can be purchased as is or layered with existing jewelry for a personalized look. They highlight the significance of symbols in Anita's designs, such as stars and bees, and how she constantly evolves her collection to offer new pieces. Anita shares her excitement and honor in seeing others wear her jewelry, including influential figures like Katherine Schwarzenegger, and how it validates her work.
The conversation shifts to Anita's role as a mother and her decision to move to the Hamptons during the pandemic. Initially hesitant, Anita eventually embraced the magical atmosphere of the Hamptons and the benefits it offered her family, such as more space and a backyard.
Overall, the episode provides insights into Anita Somayaji's journey as a jewelry designer, the personalization and craftsmanship behind her pieces, and the balancing act of being a mother and an entrepreneur in the Hamptons. You will gain an appreciation for the passion and dedication Anita brings to her work and the joy she finds in creating pieces that are cherished by her clients.
You can visit Anita's website here and this is her Instagram!
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