Conversations with Love Links Studio Owner, Andrea Lazarus

Today we would like to introduce Andrea Lazarus, owner of Love Links Studio in Westlake Village.

Hi Andrea, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember, jewelry has always been a part of my life. When I was about 2 years old, my grandma gave me a jewelry box full of costume jewelry treasures. From that moment on, I was absolutely in love. I would often go to preschool wearing layers of necklaces. By middle school, I had a gold ring for almost every finger. My love for jewelry never faltered.

While earning my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I began creating custom jewelry for friends and classmates. I found jewelry making very therapeutic. I’ve been practicing therapy for over 30 years and still hold my license today. I’ve always felt fortunate to do work that’s meaningful and to support people in different areas of their lives.
In early 2023, I learned about permanent jewelry. Within a month, I purchased a micro-welder, completed training, and started a new business, Love Links Permanent Jewelry. Around the same time, I discovered bezel setting and custom gemstone jewelry. The moment I saw it, I wanted to learn everything I could about metalsmithing. I knew I wanted to share this passion with others, and a tiny seed of an idea began.

Every weekend, I was welding jewelry for people at different community events. People began to ask if I had a studio. That’s when the seed began to take root and grow. Once I realized how permanent jewelry and metalsmithing could come together, I started looking for a space to call my own. That’s how Love Links Studio came to be. We found our home in a 1,700-square-foot space in Westlake Village and opened the doors to something bigger. Now, we offer daily workshops, permanent jewelry, charm jewelry, and host private events. It’s a creative space that’s rooted in connection and unique experience.

To me, it still feels like therapy, just in a different form. People walk in unsure of their creative ability and leave proud of what they designed and made almost entirely themselves. Jewelry has always been my passion, and now I get to share it with others every day. Love Links Studio is the result of years of following that passion and finally creating a space where others can do the same.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the biggest challenges I faced in opening Love Links Studio was getting the building contractors to understand and see my vision. I knew exactly what I wanted, but communicating it wasn’t always easy. There were moments I had to really advocate for the details because I could see it in my mind, even if others couldn’t yet.

Another challenge was our location. We’re tucked away in the heart of Westlake Village, which, honestly, I love, but it’s not exactly a spot people just stumble upon. But once people do find us, there’s almost always this instant connection—not just to the space itself, but to what we’re doing here. I always say we’re a hidden gem, and I really believe that.

Now that we’ve been here for a year, it’s amazing to look back. We’ve hosted so many events, welded hundreds of bracelets, taught so many people how to make jewelry— and along the way, we’ve built genuine relationships and a community. I am so grateful to everyone that has supported Love Links along the way, even the people that stopped by at a street fair and just said “hello”. Every challenge we faced early on was worth it.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Love Links Studio, what we do is all about bringing creativity and connection together through jewelry making. One of the things I love most is our metalsmithing workshops. People come in with an idea and leave with jewelry they have made entirely from scratch. It’s such an empowering and hands-on experience that allows people to tap into their creativity, create something meaningful, and make memories.

People in our community first recognized us for our permanent jewelry; bracelets, necklaces, anklets, hand and body chains. Guests can choose from our extensive selection of chains and customize their jewelry with charms and connectors to create jewelry that is truly their own. These pieces are designed to be lasting and personal, a real extension of someone’s style and story.

Our charm bar is another favorite. With hundreds of charms to choose from, it’s a playground for creativity. People design charm necklaces, bracelets, keychains, purse chains—you name it. The possibilities are endless, and it’s always exciting to see the unique combinations people use in their design.

We also have a beautiful selection of jewelry, perfect for gifting or just treating yourself. And for those who want to share the experience, we offer gift cards in both physical and digital formats, allowing anyone to give the gift of making.

What we are really known for is creating good times and quality experiences. Every visit to the studio is about connection, creativity, and fun. We’re especially proud of the incredible things our clients create here. Watching someone bring their vision to life is what makes this all worthwhile.

Love Links Studio stands out because that there isn’t anything else like it in and around our community. We’re the only studio combining traditional metalsmithing, permanent jewelry, and a charm bar all in one space. Additionally, our studio itself has a unique vibe—a blend of elegance and industrial charm, that makes it feel welcoming and inspiring the moment you step inside. It’s a place where creativity thrives and people feel at home.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
The best way to support us is to visit and experience it for yourself. At Love Links Studio, we don’t just sell jewelry, we create experiences. Whether you want to make something beautiful with your own hands, learn a new skill, or just have a fun time with friends, Love Links Studio is for you.

You can follow along and stay connected with us on Instagram at @LoveLinksStudio to see what we’re up to and get inspired. If you’re looking for something different for your next girls’ night out, date night, bachelor/bachelorette party, or even a fun “just because” activity, consider Love Links Studio. We’d love to be part of your special moments!

Pricing:

• Classes start at just $45 per person
• Permanent Jewelry for as low as $70 and always includes an aftercare kit and weld guarantee.
• Charm Bar Jewelry starts at $15 with your choice of chains and hundreds of charms to design unlimited unique jewelry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://thelovelinksstudio.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovelinksstudio/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Love-Links-100090293842114/
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/love-links-studio-thousand-oaks?uid=8D7wkEq4kK3_mmDSfywj3Q&utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)
• Other: https://book.squareup.com/classes/m3lnyj9qtz9xam/location/LX7VGH8H9M3KZ/classes