Summer Eliason is exactly what her first name portrays. She’s warm, sweet, relaxed and effortlessly chic. She is also the face behind Summer Eliason Jewelry, known for its super creative, whimsical designs. This new mother shares with us where she gets her inspiration and what’s to come in her jewelry line.
What do you do for a living?
I have been working as an interior designer with my father and his business partner for the past 10 years at Jenkins Eliason Interiors. I also have my own jewelry business, Summer Eliason Jewelry, where I create fun costume jewelry with vintage materials, semi-precious and precious stones, lucite, and various other materials.
When did you discover that you had a talent for designing jewelry?
After college, I sort of fell into jewelry while living in Telluride, Colorado, before looking for a “real” job.
What was the first piece you ever made?
I think it was a necklace and I gave it to my mom. She loved it and encouraged me to make more.
Whose jewelry line or style inspires you?
I am inspired mostly by vintage jewelry designers like Miriam Haskell and Stanley Hagler. Also the jewelry designed by Larry VRBA used for Victoria Secret’s fashion shows.
Do you always always wear jewelry? Is it always your line?
I always wear jewelry! It finishes an outfit in the same way lamps, art and pillows finish a room. Also I must be advertising! I do not always wear my pieces, though. Sometimes I cheat and wear my vintage finds.
What’s on the horizon at Summer Eliason Jewelry?
I have been working with a jewelry representative on my wholesale line to get into a larger market! Excited to see where it goes.
How do you balance your job and your personal life?
I am still struggling with that, especially now that I am a new mom. But somehow we all figure it out. I make sure to make time for exercise because I am no good to anyone if I don’t do that.
What is the biggest life lesson you have ever learned?
Be persistent, just keep going for what you want and eventually you will find success. Follow your dreams.
Who is your mentor?
Hard to say, I have so many! My mom, my dad, both of my stepfathers, Lucky and Wayne. They have all been there for me and encourage me to keep working hard at my business and in my personal life.
What is best advice you have received in business?
To be open to new ideas and to change with the times.
If you were not in your current job, what would you secretly love to do?
I love health and fitness and would love to get certified and teach some spin or boot camps.
What is something people would be surprised to know about you?
Apparently, a lot of people are surprised when they find out I do interior design; they think of me solely as a jewelry designer. Also, I absolutely love camping!
What is your favorite restaurant?
LOVE Jack Frys!
Where do you like to shop?
I love to support local boutiques, as I know how difficult it can be to be a small retailer.
What is a treat or a luxury you do for yourself?
Love my mani-pedis! Also make sure to find time to have girls’ night out. Love my time with my best girlfriends!
What is your weakness?
Chocolate!
What is your favorite thing to do in Louisville?
Right now, my husband and I have so much fun taking our 10 month old to the pool on Friday nights.
Three things you cannot live without (besides God, family and friends):
My iPhone, coffee and GPS
What are you reading right now?
Let’s see, Peter Rabbit, Dr. Seuss, Curious George, etc.
What are three of your “favorite” things right now?
Truffle fries (yum!), avocados and cork wedges
Thank you to Summer for letting us play with her jewelry. Summer Eliason Jewelry is located at 3702 Lexington Road. Visit her website here: www.summereliason.com.
And, a big thanks to Adele Reding Photography for creating beautiful pictures of our FACES of Louisville week after week. Visit her website here: adeleredingphotography.com.
