Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Franks.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I always knew I wanted to be a part of the fashion industry however, my parents wouldn’t let me go to fashion school so my first few jobs were based in event management. I started my career as a fashion stylist in Sydney, Australia after I got sick of the 9-5 corporate life. I was lucky enough to assist for some amazing stylists early on in my career and gain experience styling for television, advertising and red carpet.
In 2010, I moved to Los Angeles and had the opportunity to style beautiful celebrities such as Kristen Stewart, Leah Remini, and Jenna Elfman. I also gained an amazing clientele of personal styling clients. This work with professionals, new mothers, and other local LA ladies was incredibly rewarding. I feel best when I know I am helping people develop their own unique style and feel confident in what they are wearing. About three years ago, I was lucky enough to cross paths with a master craftsman of fine jewelry. With this amazing mentor, I started designing fine jewelry and nine months ago, opened my first fine jewelry store in downtown Los Angeles.
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?
There is no such thing as a smooth road in this life. I have been very fortunate to meet and connect with some brilliant and inspiring entrepreneurs along the way. These strong individuals have taught me a lot which has helped make for an easier journey. While being self-employed definitely has its perks, working in your pajamas or by the beach, I also never stop working. There is always something more to do and I often wonder if I would have been happier if I had a job at which I left all of my work once I went home.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
As a fashion stylist I am most proud of my personal styling work. Helping someone feel better in their own skin is the ultimate reward.
It was important for me to start a line of jewelry because I believe that jewelry, like personal style, should be designed to showcase an individual- their personality, their background and history. Their jewelry, like their style, should be a symbol to visually tell their story. Therefore, unlike traditional jewelry stores, our goal is to use ethically sourced and recycled materials to customize every piece to fit every different individual… because not everyone is a brilliant round solitaire diamond set on a simple thin gold band. In fact, my first fine jewelry collection featured black, brown, and grey diamonds to showcase strength, confidence, and passion.
What were you like growing up?
I feel like I’m opening up my closet of skeletons! Growing up I would probably be described as an overachiever. I was that nauseating girl that Taylor Swift sings about in all of her songs- cheer captain, school president, good grades.
I wanted to get into fashion because the entire industry intimidates me. And I like to do things that scare me. You know “they” say, do something that scares you every day. So I thought I would give this super competitive industry my best shot.
Contact Info:
- Address: 635 S. Olive Street,
Los Angeles, CA 90014 - Website: laurenfranks.com
- Phone: 310-913-1725
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauren_franks/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laurenfranksfashionstylist/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/lauren-franks-venice-2
- Other: http://novadesignsla.com/
Image Credit:
Photos of Lauren in black top and skirt at the jewelry store – Renee Farias Photography
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