Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexa Seibert.
Hi Alexa, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started From Isla out of a passion for the ocean. I wanted to create beautiful pieces that reminded people of the magic of the sea while also donating to ocean conservation.
From Isla began as a demi-fine jewelry brand back in 2014, I used to make gold-filled rings and seashell necklaces for the longest time! In 2021, I decided to make the leap to fine jewelry. At the time, I was working a 9-5 fashion industry job and making jewelry in my free time. From Isla was my side hustle for years! When I finally made the decision to go the fine jewelry route, I knew I needed to make some changes. I left my secure 9-5 job with steady pay and benefits to pursue my passion.
Running From Isla full-time has been an amazing journey. I’m learning so much about myself, my aesthetic, and I finally have time to grow my skills! However, it’s not always easy. It’s a one-woman show over here. Depending on the day, I am a designer, jeweler, photographer, marketing manager, financial officer, shipping department, and that’s just a broad example.
Although my designs have evolved over the years, the lifeblood of From Isla has always been the magic of the sea. My recent collections feature organic textures cast in 14k gold, gemstones reminiscent of the ocean, and a fairy dust sprinkling of diamonds.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In the beginning, I struggled with self-doubt, not knowing if people would like my designs when I launched the first collection was a big fear. I am a big overthinker, so these thoughts tend to linger around launch time. But seeing people’s reactions to my jewelry show after show was a big confidence booster!
I am mostly self-taught so if I wanted to learn a new skill I had to YouTube it or learn by trial and error, which quickly becomes frustrating.
I think working through problems helps you grow so I try to think about these struggles as learning experiences.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I create beautiful one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by the magic of the sea. Using an ancient process called Lost Wax Casting, I carve wax to create organic textures and silhouettes that give a subtle nod to the ocean. The wax pieces are then cast in solid 14k gold and brought to life with gemstones fit for a fairy queen. Most of my inspiration comes from marine life and fairytales, I love the combination of natural and ethereal. I want my designs to seem as if they were plucked out of a treasure chest or gifted to you by a fairy godmother.
Up until recently, I had been mostly self-taught when it came to making jewelry. If I wanted to learn a new skill, I’d scour youtube or Pinterest for tutorials. It was a lot of trial and error. I take pride in the fact that I’ve been able to get this far on my own! But there are some things that are far better learned from a professional, like stone setting. I finally took a one-week comprehensive stone setting class, which was the best decision I’ve made in a long time! Investing in myself and traveling to a jeweler’s school for a full week was something I never thought I would be able to do. I am so excited about everything I’ve learned and I can’t wait to see where my new skills will take from Isla!
What matters most to you? Why?
Passion matters the most in so many ways. As a designer, I want to always remain passionate about my work. When brands aren’t absolutely in love with what they are doing or selling, it’s obvious. Being passionate about your work is so important. Jewelry is full of passion, it’s an industry driven by emotion and purchased out of love. Having the opportunity to unite customers with their dream ring is an incredible honor.
When we are passionate about something we have the urge to protect it. A passion for the sea is what started From Isla back in 2014! The desire to bring the magic of the sea into someone’s everyday life through sentimental jewelry has been a driving force for my brand all these years.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.fromisla.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/from_isla
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fromisla
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/fromisla/
