It’s been a while since I’ve done an interview but I’ve found some new names so get ready to get reacquainted!
Tell us a little bit about where you are from and what you do.
I am a Cajun from south Louisiana. I now live part time in New Orleans in the French Quarter. I design, make, and sell jewelry and other items with a mainly Louisiana theme, primarily working with pewter charms and beads. I began my business in 2001 as “Laurie’s Lagniappe”. Even though I no longer use that name, my philosophy remains the same. In French, Lagniappe means “something extra” and that is what my pieces offer, something extra whether it is for home, for personal use, or for a gift. It is the something extra that makes an occasion special or makes one feel special.
Camping trailer earringsYou are obviously very influenced by Louisiana culture, particularly the Gulf of Mexico. What is it about Louisiana that makes you want to incorporate these elements into your designs?
As I said, I am Cajun and proud of our culture and state. The Gulf of Mexico is an integral part of our culture and livelihood as is the Fleur de Lis and Mardi Gras. I want to bring Louisiana and our love of life to other parts of the country and world.
Louisiana Gulf Coast wine stem charms
What is your customer typically looking for? I noticed that you cater to wedding parties.
Most customers are looking for Fleur de Lis items. The Fleur de Lis has long been associated with Louisiana and since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita; the Fleur de Lis has been a symbol of hope and rebirth. The Fleur de Lis is an official symbol of Louisiana and its popularity continues to increase.
One of the items I make is stem glass markers or wine charms and they are perfect for wedding favors. I also make candle rings that can be used on unity candles. Cake pulls are becoming popular again and I have various themes. I customize all these items to the wedding colors and themes.
New Orleans antiqued fleur de lis pin
Besides making jewelry what are your other hobbies?
RVing, cooking, dancing and reading are things I enjoy when not making jewelry. My husband and I are avid RVers and enjoy traveling and experiencing other areas and cultures. We also enjoy cooking and making dishes Cajun. We shop farmers markets in areas we visit, purchasing local items and cooking them Cajun.
Gulf Coast wildlife charm bracelet
Define southern style.
Southern style is not what you wear; it is how you wear an outfit. The simplest outfit becomes elegant by adding the finishing touch, whether it is a brooch, scarf, or pendant. It is the Lagniappe and that is how I look at my pieces. They are the extras that give an outfit a personal touch, make the wearer feel special and have the grace and charm of the south.