Today we’d like to introduce you to Christy Jackson.
Christy, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I started Verve Jewelry in 2008 after years of collecting vintage pieces and making my own things to give to people as gifts. I was trying my hand at acting at the time, which for me meant bartending too. I appreciated the money I was making working in a bar, but I was frustrated by the lack of creativity. I am the type of person that needs to be creative or I get a little nuts, so I started making jewelry as a creative outlet. I gave the pieces as gift to family and friends. At work customers started asking me where I got the necklace or earrings I was wearing and my jewelry business organically started from there.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
This can be a tough business. It’s very competitive, especially in L.A. Nowadays, it seems as though everyone and their mother makes jewelry. But what can I say- I don’t blame them! Designing pieces and putting your ideas into something tangible is awesome, and then you get paid for it? It’s a dream job! I have had my ups and downs with it, like every job, and sometimes it can be frustrating. When the economy is not amazing and jewelry may not be at the top of people’s priority lists my stockists and I feel it. Retail is taking a different direction lately and things are not the way they were 8-10 years ago, But I am a huge believer in not going down the negative road and just keep my focus on the fact that every day I get to do a job that I love. People will always want to feel pretty, adorn themselves with things that make them feel good, and wear things that tell a story or remind them of a time or place where they got the piece. All jobs can be frustrating at times, but if you do what you love than it really is a labor of love.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Verve Jewelry has specialized in a wide variety of styles, from chunky and eclectic to dainty and every day. We used to be known for our limited edition vintage brass pieces that used “new old stock” chain dating from the 1960’s – 1970’s. I still occasionally make the big and chunky, but lately I have been making more delicate pieces. I think my style is eclectic bohemian with a little bit of street edge. I also love to incorporate vintage findings into my work. I think it makes my pieces stand out and gives them a new look with a vintage flair.
What makes me the most proud of my company is that I believe in giving back to the community and think it’s our responsibility as humans to take care of our planet and the animals that live here. I am huge animal lover and am passionate about animal rescue. I volunteer with animal rescue groups here in L.A. and also give a portion of all my sales to animal rescue efforts across the globe.
What were you like growing up?
I was pretty much how I am now. Never sat still, always moving, tons of energy. My teachers nicknamed me “Fast Forward” and if you ask my friends now if that still applies it would be a resounding yes. That is why I love being creative and using my hands. It’s cathartic and calming for me. It’s meditative.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1129 E Marshall Place,
Long Beach, CA 90807 - Website: www.vervejewelry.com
- Phone: 323-496-0994
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: vervejewelry
- Facebook: facebook.com/vervejewelry
Image Credit:
David Marano Photography
Robert Meeks Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
