Today we’d like to introduce you to Sulema Fernandez- Honn
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
AMORFIRST began as a vision deeply rooted in my personal journey as a designer, artist, and mother. Growing up as a Mexican American in Los Angeles, I was surrounded by vibrant cultural influences that shaped my artistic sensibilities and love for storytelling. My heritage, paired with my husband’s Anglo-American background, inspired a fusion of traditions and perspectives that became a cornerstone of AMORFIRST. This blend of cultures, and the universal message of love and connection, is what inspired the name AMORFIRST—love first.
The idea for AMORFIRST grew from my passion for art and design, as well as my professional experience in sales and marketing. I wanted to create a brand that not only produced beautiful designs but also told stories—stories that resonate with people on a deeper level.
Starting small, I focused on crafting unique, thoughtful pieces that reflect my heritage, the influence of my husband’s culture, and our shared values. Over time, my efforts, combined with a strategic approach to growing the business, led to significant milestones, including a significant increase in sales in the past year.
AMORFIRST is now a platform where art in jewelry, fashion or decor meets culture, celebrating individuality, connection, and the power of women-led creativity. My journey hasn’t been without challenges, but each obstacle has fueled my growth and strengthened my commitment to building something lasting and meaningful.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road—every meaningful journey comes with its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been balancing the creative and business aspects of AMORFIRST. As a designer, my passion lies in creating art and telling stories, but running a business also requires managing finances, logistics, and marketing, which can feel overwhelming at times.
Another challenge has been navigating the dynamics of building a women-owned business in a competitive market while staying true to my vision and values. There’s a constant push to adapt to trends or scale quickly, but I’ve learned to trust my instincts and stay focused on creating meaningful work rather than rushing growth.
On a personal level, blending my Mexican American heritage with my husband’s Anglo-American background has been a source of inspiration, but it also comes with the responsibility of authentically representing both cultures in my work. Ensuring that our fusion of traditions is celebrated while remaining inclusive has been a delicate but rewarding process.
Despite these challenges, every struggle has taught me resilience and reinforced my belief in the power of creativity and love to overcome obstacles. These experiences have shaped AMORFIRST into what it is today—a reflection of perseverance, passion, and purpose.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
At AMORFIRST, my work is a fusion of art, design, and storytelling. I specialize in creating meaningful pieces that blend cultural influences, personal experiences, and timeless beauty. Whether it’s a handcrafted accessory, a striking artwork, or a custom design, each creation is rooted in the idea of connection—bringing people closer to their heritage, their individuality, or the ones they love.
I’m most proud of how AMORFIRST reflects my journey, blending my Mexican American heritage with my husband’s Anglo-American culture. This fusion inspires everything I create and allows me to share stories that celebrate diversity and unity. One of my proudest achievements is seeing how our designs resonate with people on a personal level, becoming cherished keepsakes or sparking meaningful conversations.
What sets AMORFIRST apart is its heart. Every piece is made with intention, celebrating culture, love, and artistry. Unlike larger, impersonal brands, AMORFIRST is deeply personal—rooted in authenticity and a commitment to creating something beautiful and lasting.
At the core, my work is about more than design; it’s about inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness, honor their roots, and live with love first. That purpose is what drives me and makes AMORFIRST special.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’d love to leave readers with this: AMORFIRST isn’t just a brand—it’s a celebration of creativity, culture, and connection. Whether you’re wearing one of our pieces, admiring our art, or simply following our journey, my hope is that it inspires you to embrace what makes you unique and to live with love at the center of everything you do.
I also want to encourage anyone pursuing their dreams to trust the process. The road may not always be smooth, but every challenge is an opportunity to grow, create, and connect with others. Stay true to your vision, honor your roots, and don’t be afraid to put love first—it’s what makes the journey worthwhile.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about AMORFIRST. Your support means everything to us!
Pricing:
- Price Ranges from $24-$700
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amorfirst.com/
- Instagram: @amor_first & @amorfirstgalleria
- Facebook: @AmorhirstJewelry
Image Credits
Photography-Rhiannon Larson
SFHonn
Makeup- Sulema Fernandez-Honn
Rhiannon Rose Larson
Styled- Rhiannon Rose Larson
Sulema Fernandez- Honn
Jewelry & Art- AMORFIRST
