Today we’d like to introduce you to Alisa Cohen
Hi Alisa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’ve been designing and making jewelry since high school in the late ’80s and early ’90s—yes, I’m that old! 😉 What first excited me was the idea that I could create something, make it, and wear it instantly. I’ve always loved instant gratification.
Growing up, my father was an avid antique collector, and we spent countless weekends at antique shows and swap meets. I would always pick up little trinkets, and as I got older, I started incorporating them into my jewelry designs, that’s really how it all began. By college, I was already selling my pieces to stores, though I’m not even sure how well they held up back then! After graduating, I became a teacher and started selling my jewelry to my fellow teachers. Whatever I made, I sold almost immediately.
My first big break came when I got my first rep at the Los Angeles Mart. At the time, I was designing pieces that weren’t necessarily my passion, but they were incredibly successful. I was selling in some of the most prestigious stores, Giorgio Beverly Hills, Macy’s, Fred Segal, and many more. Over the years, my jewelry has evolved in countless ways, and I’ve been represented in showrooms all over the world.
In 2012, I opened my first retail location in Studio City, California. We were pioneers in offering a design bar where customers could create their own jewelry using our charms—something that has since become widespread. Unfortunately, the store closed just before the pandemic, and now we focus solely on online sales and wholesale partnerships.
We also have a kids’ jewelry line called **Sadie’s Moon**, which incorporates all the signature elements of Alisa Michelle into fun, meaningful, and giftable pieces for children.
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?
**Navigating the Challenges and Triumphs of the Jewelry Industry**
The jewelry business is an incredibly challenging one for many reasons. Along the way, there have been countless obstacles as well as remarkable successes. Despite these achievements, my tendency has always been to focus on the difficulties rather than the victories.
One of the most significant challenges we faced was a large order through Nordstrom, which stemmed from a collaboration with Paramount Pictures for the anniversary of *Mean Girls*. Just as we were preparing for the launch, Nordstrom encountered an issue with another brand selling *Mean Girls* apparel, leading them to pull all related merchandise from their shelves. This decision had a direct impact on our order, resulting in a major disappointment. Though it was a difficult setback, we recovered and moved forward.
Today, one of the greatest challenges we face is acquiring new customers. Customer acquisition has become increasingly difficult, and we are constantly working to determine the most effective strategies to expand our reach and connect with new audiences.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
**The Heart and Soul of Handmade Jewelry**
Handmade jewelry is becoming harder to find these days, but it is something we take great pride in. Most people do not realize how much work goes into creating jewelry by hand while also producing enough to meet demand. It is not easy, but we do it because we love it.
I like to think we were one of the first to start the hand-stamped jewelry movement. It all began with real coins that were being destroyed, and we found a way to give them new life by stamping meaningful phrases onto them. That simple idea turned into something so much bigger, and it still defines who we are today.
What matters most to us is that every piece is made with love and care. We pour our hearts into everything we create, and we want our customers to feel that. We also believe in treating our customers the way we would want to be treated. Every email gets answered, and we do our best to make sure everyone feels important. At the end of the day, it is not just about jewelry. It is about connection, meaning, and making people feel special.
We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
**A Childhood of Discovery and Treasured Memories**
One of my favorite childhood memories is traveling the world with my parents, especially the times I spent with my father searching for antiques and hidden treasures in the most unexpected places. We would explore antique shops, flea markets, and small tucked-away spots, always on the lookout for something special. I still have many of those pieces today, each holding a story of its own.
My dad had an incredible eye for unique finds, and he would light up whenever I discovered something with potential. He knew right away when an item could be transformed into something new, something beautiful that I might even sell one day. His enthusiasm made those moments even more magical and taught me to see beyond what something was to what it could become.
What has always fascinated me about antiques is their history. Each piece has passed through so many hands, carrying the memories and experiences of those who owned it before. When I design jewelry, I think about that history, about the lives these objects have touched. In a way, I feel like I am continuing their journey, giving them a new purpose while passing on their stories to others.
Pricing:
- Alisa michelle has been worn by hundreds of celebrities throughout the years
- Each piece is handmade in our Los Angeles studio
- Our pricing is very fair for the amount of work that goes into each item
- Woman owned business
- We also have a kids line called Sadie’s moon.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.alisamichelle.com, www.sadiesmoon.com
- Instagram: Alisamichelledesigns
- Facebook: Alisa Michelle
