Featured Artist: Rozelyn DeSagun of Jaydemia

This week’s featured EtsyNJ artist is Rozelyn DeSagun of Jaydemia. Rozelyn fashions elegant, upscale jewelry perfect for all those special occasions, including weddings. (Here’s a sampling of some of her distinctively decorative pieces). So, if you have a need for beads, then add Jaydemia to your Etsy shopping list this holiday. Read on to find out just what makes Rozelyn and Jaydemia shine!

1. The Tote Trove (TTT): Jaydemia features intricate jewelry, including bridal pieces. Do you find yourself drawn to accessories in your own life?

Rozelyn DeSagun (RD): I love jewelry! It’s something I learned from my mom at an early age. For me, jewelry is more than just a fashion accessory. It’s a symbol of my personality and of special events in my life. My parents helped me start my collection by giving me a piece of jewelry to commemorate occassions such as my baptism, birthdays, and graduation.

2. TTT: How would you describe your fashion style?

RD: I’m the timeless type. Although I go for classic pieces, I always want an element of surprise, whether it’s an unexpected color, shape, or something else interesting. I love one-of-a-kind or rare pieces and prefer to have things that are limited if not custom made just for me.

3. TTT: How did you become interested in making jewelry?

RD: Growing up, my mom worked with a goldsmith to design her own jewelry. Sometimes, if she’s not crazy about a piece anymore, then she’ll sell it and design another. Almost all the jewelry I received from my parents was custom made! When I had my daughter, I wanted to continue the tradition. But unlike my mom, I don’t have access to a great goldsmith or a budget for real gold and gems. So when I discovered crystals, I immediately feel in love with them. They give me the sparkle without the big price tag and help me create classic pieces.

4. TTT: Did you learn your craft from someone, or are you more self-taught?

RD: I’m self-taught. But I love to read about techniques too, although most of the time I don’t end up following them!

5. TTT: What is your favorite item in your shop?

RD: I love my Antonia necklace (first photo displayed). It’s a tribute to my grandmother, whom I loved so much.

6. TTT: What items, if any, would you like to add to your shop?

RD: I just added my “natural” collection, which includes jewelry made from recycled natural materials like wood and shells. The materials used in this collection have a deeper meaning for me. Using them is my way of helping the fishermen and their families who make these beads as an alternate way of making a living.

7. TTT: Describe your creative process. Do you follow a routine, create when inspiration strikes, or a little bit of both?

RD: I have 4 kids under 7 years old, so there’s no routine for me. Whenever I get a chance, even if it’s just 10 minutes, I do something.

8. TTT: What is the best thing about running your own business?

RD: The best thing is I can stay home with my kids. I can work my own hours, and the earning potential is great. The worst thing is trying to finish the work. It can be really stressful.

9. TTT: How did you discover Etsy?

RD: I think I heard about it from one of the crafters I met at a show.

10. TTT: Do you sell your work in venues outside of Etsy (i.e, other sites, craft shows, etc)? If yes, then how does selling online differ from selling in person?

RD: I do craft shows and sell on consignment. I also have a few sales reps. I find selling online to be really challenging. Because my brand is not well known yet, it’s hard to convince buyers to prefer me over established names. Not being able to see and feel the items creates another hurdle. But I’m up for the challenge.

11. TTT: Who is most (emotionally) supportive of your business?

RD: My daughters. Even at a very young age, they never fail to appreciate my work. Don’t make me cry…

12. TTT: On your blog, you write, “For some, having a business is a just a part-time job. For others, it’s a source of extra money for shopping. For the fortunate few, it’s a primary source of income. For my part, though, my jewelry business is my life --- my passion, my choice, my stepping stone.” Tell us what life experiences inspired to you to start your business.

RD: I’ve always been the entrepreneur kind. I love selling and creating things. Since I was a kid, I’ve dreamt of having my own business --- having my own office, being my own boss, and having my own company. I’ve always loved talking to business owners and learning from them. That’s my reason for picking business school over med school. =)

13. TTT: Are there any new artistic/creative skills you’d like to learn?

RD: Sewing, knitting, and crocheting are dream skills for me. My grandmother and mom are both great at those. I just think needles don’t find me interesting. I tried stencil painting once and loved it. I’m also into recycling and try to make things from recycled materials.

14. TTT: Tell us about life outside of Jaydemia. Do you have a job in addition to your business? Hobbies? Family? Pets?

RD: Well, I’m a wife and mom of 4 cuties, ages 6, 4, 2, and 8 months. I’m also active in a Catholic community.

15. TTT: What are your hopes for Jaydemia in the future?

RD: I’m a firm believer in dreaming big, so I’d like Jaydemia to become a known brand of costume jewelry in the future. I’m planning to open a flagship brick and mortar store. Also, I would like to be known as a generous company that gives back to various charities. God willing, I would like Jaydemia to be a company that provides income to those less fortunate families in the Philippines, which was where I was born and raised.

16. TTT: BONUS QUESTION. Just for fun, if you were stranded on a deserted island and had to eat the same thing every day, what would it be? You can pick a drink and a dessert, too. (I find that dreaming up a whole meal makes this game more entertaining!)

RD: Hmmm… This is good --- rice, pork rinds (chicharones), sweetened iced tea, and tiramisu!

Thanks for getting to know Rozelyn and Jaydemia. For all that sparkles, visit her new Web site as well as her Facebook fan page and blog.